On Thu, 11 Mar 2004 20:23:13 -0800, Jack Twilley
wrote:
What's the best way to find out for what bands (if any) my current
antenna is best suited? Would something like the Antenna Analyzer II
(http://www.amqrp.org/kits/antanal/) or the 'Tenna Dipper
(http://4sqrp.com/kits/kits.htm) answer this question?

These are toys when it comes to the grist of your question. No
analyzer will answer what is best as that is a subjective issue.
Further, an antenna has more characteristics than feed point Z which
impact the nature of your enquiry far more.

A low antenna that warms the ground will look like a charmer to the
analyzer, but then so would your dummy load. Get the idea? You
already anticipate this I am sure.

The old methods, prior to the invention of analyzers, encompassed a
simple sanity/reality check with the field strength meter. Put one
100 wavelengths out and take a reading. Do the same with a buddy in
town. The differences should be telling. This will reveal how much
power has escaped the grip of loss.

Repeat with a DX contact (you and your buddy working the same remote
station). You already have a basis of comparison for line of sight
power levels, you can now determine how well your elevation angles
work out. If you buddy comes in #1 and has a higher antenna, you got
a clue where your next step should be. But higher, lower, whatever,
differences will be revealing. No differences? Well then perhaps
doing some Dale Carnegie courses are in order.

73's
Richard Clark, KB7QHC