S9v 43’ Installation Guide
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17
7.
Install Ground Radials
. We recommend a minimum of 16 radials, each at
least 0.2 wavelength long at the lowest operating frequency, spaced as
evenly as possible around the antenna base – like wheel spokes. For best
performance, use 32 (or more) radials. It is suggested that you use 14 AWG
insulated stranded copper wire (available at Home Depot
TM
and sold in 500-ft
rolls for around $30).
Use lawn and garden fabric staples to secure the radials to the ground. Install
the first staple about 3 inches or so from the edge of the radial plate. Grass
will eventually grow over the radials and cover them. In the meantime, be
sure to set your lawn mower blade higher than normal to ensure that the
radials do not get caught in the mower blade - this advice comes from real-
world "experience" (!). It is best to use lots of staples for each radial to
ensure that the radials are held firmly against the ground.
Install first radial staple
about 3 inches from the
edge of the radial plate
