End-Fed Antennas Explained: Where Does the Return Current Go?
Telecom Training
44,636 views
Have you ever wondered how an end-fed antenna can work with only one visible wire?
In this video, we take a deep look at how end-fed half-wave (EFHW) antennas actually work, including the role of the 49:1 transformer, counterpoise, common-mode current, RF return paths, and feedline chokes.
You'll learn:
• Why end-fed antennas have high feedpoint impedance
• What a 49:1 transformer actually does
• Why a good SWR doesn't always mean good performance
• Where the RF return current really flows
• How common-mode current develops on the coax shield
• What a counterpoise does
• Why many operators add a 1:1 choke
• The difference between EFHW antennas and random wire antennas
Whether you're new to amateur radio or have used end-fed antennas for years, understanding the complete RF current path can help you build better-performing antenna systems.
Telecom Training
#HamRadio #AntennaTheory #EFHW #EndFedAntenna #AmateurRadio
Learn more about Telecommunications! Get my ebook "Telecommunications Simplified" here: https://amzn.to/3WsNpbF
20 Comments
I have purchased an EFHW and will be deploying it soon, because it fits with my property topology, but I never clearly understood what is required for a counterpoise or not...
Now I see it's pretty much essential and a common choke should be use...
End-Fed Antennas Explained: Where Does the Return Current Go?
Telecom Training
44,636 views
Have you ever wondered how an end-fed antenna can work with only one visible wire?
In this video, we take a deep look at how end-fed half-wave (EFHW) antennas actually work, including the role of the 49:1 transformer, counterpoise, common-mode current, RF return paths, and feedline chokes.
You'll learn:
• Why end-fed antennas have high feedpoint impedance
• What a 49:1 transformer actually does
• Why a good SWR doesn't always mean good performance
• Where the RF return current really flows
• How common-mode current develops on the coax shield
• What a counterpoise does
• Why many operators add a 1:1 choke
• The difference between EFHW antennas and random wire antennas
Whether you're new to amateur radio or have used end-fed antennas for years, understanding the complete RF current path can help you build better-performing antenna systems.
Telecom Training
#HamRadio #AntennaTheory #EFHW #EndFedAntenna #AmateurRadio
Learn more about Telecommunications! Get my ebook "Telecommunications Simplified" here: https://amzn.to/3WsNpbF
The counterpoise?
The coax shield?
The ground?
Or were you never quite sure?
👇 Tell us below.