Aerial Length

[JohnDora]

I’ve been having range issues in the 40 MHz band, with compatible Rx and Tx. Discovered today the Tx serial was only 1m or so long, when my research (and other Tx) had aerials 1.2m long.

Question: how much of a difference might this make with respect to range?

John

[Wax Savage]

Hi John,

my experience as a licensed General Class amateur radio operator says a 10% over/under length on a TX antenna can have a detrimental effect though, not usually. First, as a general rule always make sure your TX antenna is fully extended.

If you feel the range of your 40mhz setup is questionable and you suspect the TX antenna length is at fault you can perform a crude test. I'd first borrow an identical TX with the same antenna as yours and see if the range is similarly lacking. I would then borrow a TX of any manufacture with a 1.2 meter antenna and test the range. If the range issue is the same, I'd suspect the RX or, the installation in the model. Here is an article you may find informative.

https://www.rc-cam.com/ant_a