Towertalk
[Top] [All Lists]

[TowerTalk] power handling limits of screwdriver antennas

To: "Towertalk" <towertalk@contesting.com>
Subject: [TowerTalk] power handling limits of screwdriver antennas
From: "Jim Lux" <jimlux@earthlink.net>
Date: Wed, 2 Jun 2004 06:29:52 -0700
List-post: <mailto:towertalk@contesting.com>
I realize it's not really on a tower, but it IS an HF antenna..

What's the "real" power limit on a screwdriver antenna? Yes, I know all the
mfrs claim, variously, a few hundred watts, but I'll bet that's just because
it's bigger than most rigs put out barefoot, and I doubt the mfrs rigorously
test to destruction.


What's the limiting mechanism and/or failure mode from running too much
power on a screwdriver antenna?

The 4:1 transformer or matching network at the base?
The finger stock?
The windings getting hot and melting the tube they're wound on (particularly
if it's PVC)?
Is it a thermal limit or a voltage limit?


Theory, wild speculation, practical experience all would be useful.


Jim, W6RMK

_______________________________________________

See: http://www.mscomputer.com  for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather 
Stations", and lot's more.  Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions 
and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.

_______________________________________________
TowerTalk mailing list
TowerTalk@contesting.com
http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/towertalk

<Prev in Thread] Current Thread [Next in Thread>