Subj : Re: Getting Started
To   : Warpslide
From : Andre
Date : Tue Aug 18 2020 16:24:36

On 18 Aug 2020, Warpslide said the following...
 
 Wa> may be my next purchase.  I've also seen some people say "I never use
 Wa> the included antenna, I always get a tuned one".

Most hams don't know their ass from their elbow. If it's not backed by data,
don't listen to their anecdotes. The antennas that come with HTs are no worse
than the 16" (or so) aftermarket antennas. Three-foot extenable antennas make
a big difference. "Rat tail" counterpoise antennas are nonsense. The
internal metal of the radio body, and to some extent your body while holding
it, act as the counterpoise. You might see some better RX (receive) quality,
but it's inconsistent. Last year someone did a lab test to show all that,
which mimics the result of my son's science fair tests from a couple years
ago.

Mobile antennas on a magnet base, placed on a baking sheet, will
significantly outperform the ducky antenna. 

A home antenna, even in an attic, will outperform all of the above. Most
people seem to think J-pole antennas of copper work best, but I don't know
how much they outperform a purchased Comet or Diamond antenna (cheaper
though, especially if you make it yourself). Outdoors and as high as possible
will perform best, as VHF/UHF are line-of-sight. Attics work well enough if
you can't mount it on a tower or roof.

Discone antennas are the best scanner/listening antennas.

Window mount are pretty marginal, especially if mounted inside the window.
You'd be better off with the mobile antenna on a baking sheet, or a roll-up
J-pole antenna hanging out the window.

- Andre, WT9X

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