HOW DOES A DIPOLE ANTENNA WORK?

A dipole antenna is a long wire that is suspended between two points. The wire is cut to a specific length, and is fed in the middle with a radio frequency (RF) signal. One half of the antenna is hooked to the ground wire of the transmission line, and the other is hooked to the center conductor.

As an RF signal is applied to a piece of wire, both an electric and a magnetic field is set up around the wire. These waves propagate through the air (or ether!) without limit. As these magnetic and electric fields reach another station’s antenna (or about any other metal object in it’s path) the exact reverse effect takes place on our antenna that our RF signal did. The rapidly changing fields produce an RF current that your receiver can detect.

Although it is impossible to actually see the waves coming off of a dipole, we can try to visualize it to understand it better. Take a piece of paper and push a pen or pencil through the center. Hold it up in front of you. Let’s pretend that the pencil represents our antenna, and the paper represents where our signal is concentrated. As you can see, most of the radiation is given off at a 90 degree angle to the antenna, with very little radiation occurring parallel to the pencil. It is this property that makes the dipole directional. Another advantage is that the radiation is at all angles around the wire, and the signal has a maximum chance to skip through the atmosphere, making the dipole ideal for DX.

An inverted dipole does have a number of advantages over typical dipoles. For one thing, they take up less space, with some of their wire being used up to climb a vertical distance, and a five percent reduction in antenna length over a normal dipole. They also match their impedance more easily to a 50 ohm coaxial cable than a typical dipole, which has an impedance of 65 ohms. The inverted dipole also has a higher angle of radiation — making it better for sky wave DX.

If you have any questions, we suggest that you look for the ARRL Handbook, which has all sorts of great information for hanging antennas.

RAMSEY DA SERIES DIPOLE ANTENNA

Page 5

Page 4 Page 6
Page 5
Image 5
Ramsey Electronics DA-1 manual HOW does a Dipole Antenna WORK?
Page 4 Page 6

DA-1 specifications

The Ramsey Electronics DA-1 is a highly revered audio amplifier designed for various audio applications, including broadcasting, public address, and home audio systems. Known for its simplicity and reliability, the DA-1 is an essential tool for hobbyists and professionals alike. This article focuses on its main features, technologies, and characteristics that set it apart in the competitive audio amplifier market.

One of the standout features of the DA-1 is its versatility. Supporting a wide range of audio sources, it can be connected to microphones, mixers, or other audio devices. The DA-1 is engineered with high-quality components that ensure exceptional sound clarity and fidelity. With a power output of 1 watt RMS into an 8-ohm load, it provides sufficient amplification for small venues or personal listening experiences.

The amplifier employs a compact design, making it easy to integrate into various setups. Its lightweight construction allows for hassle-free portability, which is advantageous for users who need to transport their audio equipment frequently. Furthermore, the DA-1 operates on a simple DC power source, making it energy-efficient and convenient, especially in outdoor settings.

One of the key technologies in the DA-1 is its use of a Class D amplifier architecture. This modern design provides greater efficiency compared to traditional Class A or Class AB amplifiers. Class D amplifiers generate less heat and consume less power while delivering high-output performance. As a result, the DA-1 can maintain audio quality without compromising on energy efficiency.

The amplifier also features built-in gain control, allowing users to easily adjust the sound levels according to their preferences. This ensures that audio output can be finely tuned, accommodating both quiet settings and louder environments effectively. Another noteworthy characteristic is the DA-1's durability, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

In summary, the Ramsey Electronics DA-1 is a versatile, powerful, and compact audio amplifier that stands out due to its Class D technology, excellent sound fidelity, and user-friendly features. Whether for professional or personal use, this amplifier remains a favorite among audio enthusiasts seeking reliable performance in a straightforward package.
Top Page Image Contents