wy0mn |
06-30-2010 11:58 AM |
Anything less than a 1/4 wave (102") whip is a compromise. Base & center loaded coils, or wound antennas, are the proper 'electrical' length but not the correct 'physical' length. They radiate fine but reception will always be inferior to a full sized antenna.
As someone stated before, antennas placed too close together will de-couple, partially canceling each other out. Auto bodies and truck cabs do the same thing. Bumper mounts are also a compromise, even with a single antenna, because its too close to other metal objects. (It seems contrary since it still uses the vehicle as a ground plane radial, but its true non the less). Thats why semis have dual antennas, the cab blocks the signal to one side, just like a reflector element on a Yagi antenna. A reflector doesn't really reflect by the way, it creates a a null to the rear simulating improved reception from the front.
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