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w5gi Mystery Antenna
Posted: Sun Aug 01, 2010 11:21 pm
by Gene Cexton
I would like to know if any ham operators have had any experience with the w5gi mystery antenna and if they are pleased with its performance, with or without and external tuner. Any positives and any negatives are truly welcomed or any suggestions as well. Thanks to all for you honest input.73 gene
Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2010 1:46 am
by lhk0pd
Gene here is E Hams site with 34 users of the antenna and their thoughts.....
http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/4552
Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2010 8:45 pm
by k4kk
I used one during field day this year. I was totally underwhelmed. It worked but only "worked." I checked it out and at its best it is around 80% efficient compared to a dipole and the efficiency is very steep around various points throughout the amateur bands. With a tuner it WILL work. It will not work at more than about 80% and will typically work at much lower efficiencies as you tune the bands.
Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2010 2:37 am
by gibbynite
It is a great 20 meter antenna. I think the secret is to get it up in the air. I have mine in a flat top at exactly 90' above the ground. Higher than most hams where the common height seems to be 30'. I have won 1st place plaques in both the 7 Area QSOP and Arizona QSOP and placed 8th in mixed CQWW, 7th area. Next CQWW I am only working 20 meters. I expect to place in the top 3 -or at least thats what I'm going to try for. Anyway, I work about 80% 20 meters in these contests and I attribute my success to the antenna and how well it performs on 20. I works very well on 40. THe rest of the bands it compares to a G5RV.
I love it.