How does the Signal Strand™ counterpoise work?

TL;DR

The Signal Strand™ acts as a counterpoise or “ground plane” for your antenna, improving performance by providing the electrical balance needed to create a proper dipole antenna. This typically results in better radiation patterns and improved efficiency.

What is a counterpoise?

Think of an antenna as needing two parts to work effectively:

1. The antenna element that sticks up from your radio (like your Signal Stick)
2. A ground reference or counterpoise

Without a counterpoise, your antenna is only “half” of what it needs to be. Your radio’s case and your body end up acting as an improper ground plane, which can lead to inconsistent performance and interference.

Tue, Nov 26, 2024

What length Signal Strand™ should I use?

TL;DR

Standard Signal Strand™ lengths for Signal Stick™ antennas:

• Dual-Band Signal Stick™: ~18.5" for 2m/70cm ham bands, ~16.5" for GMRS/MURS
• 440 Monoband: ~6.25" for 70cm band, ~5.25" for GMRS
• 220 Monoband: ~12.5" for 1.25m band

Dual-Band Signal Stick™ Lengths

For the dual-band Signal Stick, choose your length based on your primary use:

• Amateur Radio Bands

  • 144-148 MHz (2m) and 440 MHz (70cm): ~18.5"
  • This length is optimized for both bands simultaneously

• GMRS and MURS

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  Tue, Nov 26, 2024