Next message: Michael Lahrkamp: "RE: [world-cruising] Re: ssb antennas...."
On 5/17/07, Donald Smith <> wrote:
>
> Friends,
>
> Every time one cuts a cable and inserts a mechanical splice (i.e., an
> insulator) a potential failure point is introduced to the system. No
> matter how one tries to rationalize that mechanical connection an
> additional potential failure point has been added. That's a fact!
> If one can avoid potential failure points then that is prudent.
> That's fundamental engineering.
>
> Of course an insulated backstay works well as an antenna. So does
> just hoisting a piece of wire from a halyard. So does the split-lead
> antenna for GAM. The fact is that on a sailboat the counterpoise
> (RF ground) has more to do with the efficiency of an antenna than the
> antenna itself (assuming adequate length, insulation, and tuning).
>
> So, make your antenna choices as you will and SSB to your hearts
> delight.
>
An element of fundamental engineering is the science of making attachments
that will stand up to their environment. The reality is that the failure
rate of backstay insulators is ridiculously low. I know of only one in the
past 25 years, and that was because the insulator was not attached
properly. Most boats that I've seen have potential failure points far more
likely to fail than a insulated backstay. Most of these potential failure
points were designed-in by the builder.
The backstay antenna has the advantage that it can be used while underway or
in heavy weather. Most other antennas will not work under those conditions.
Another alternative that I've been told works is the "Outbacker" - a
clamp-on vertical antenna that does not require a tuner. A web search will
turn up specifics.
--
Best,
Bryan Genez
"Capella" V40-158
New Bern, NC
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