On Fri, 16 Apr 2010 10:19:40 -0700, Richard Clark
wrote:

Over the years, the topic of how many and how long of radials with a
horizontal has had so many variables that the discussion ran to
examining the trivial instead of being useful.

Somehow, that didn't come out right.

The number and length of radials is, of course, confined to the
discussion of a vertical antenna.

The number of variables in this relates to frequency, match,
efficiency, loss (which at first blush the last two "seem" to be about
the same thing), and (incorrectly) launch angle.

Another point that occurred to me: The notion of a tuned radial, and
it laying on the ground is an exercise in futility. The proximity of
ground is going to seriously detune the radial which will mock your
effort. Tuned radials are more a property of elevated verticals. Some
commercial verticals which come with tuned radials, or where you will
be expected to supply them, have a tacit expectation of your also
mounting the antenna some appreciable distance above ground.

73's
Richard Clark, KB7QHC