(Antennahead1) wrote in message . com...
I am thinking about getting a 5/8 wave antenna, most likely the Imax
2000. Does the GPK for it wrap around so that it is centered? I can't
tell from the drawings I have seen posted. If I can get only a bracket
or make one myself, would the performance be better with longer
radials like Francis 8' antennas or something similar? How does the
angle affect gain? I an interested in reducing TVI, improving
groundwave performance and reducing skip as much as possible. What is
the difference if the radials are horizontal vs 45 degrees or some
point in between? Does the bracket need to be below the matching
circuit rings or is there another position that would be better? I am
using a 37' pole and it is well grounded with three 8' rods and
another dedicated rod through the basement floor that attaches to my
radio. TVI has not been a big problem with my A99 but I would like to
improve ground wave performance. With my current setup, I typically
tx/rx out to 40 or 50 miles. Is that good/typical for an omni type
antenna? How much farther can I expect to reach with a 5/8 wave? Has
anyone ever removed the flat mounting plate on the Imax 2000 so the
A99 radial kit can be used?

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/11meteramps/

If you're looking to "reduce skip", then you do not want a 5/8ths-wave
groundplane; they produce a lower angle of radiation which imcreases
"skip". For what you want, it sounds like you've got about the best
antenna. 40 to 50 miles range from an Antron 99 is very good.