VertiCore 1/4th: The Reliable Workhorse for 15, 17, and 20m
Quick Comparison — 1/4 λ vs 5/8 λ
| Aspect | 1/4 λ Vertical (VertiCore 1/4th) | 5/8 λ Vertical (VertiCore 5/8th) |
|---|---|---|
| Best bands | 15 m, 17 m, 20 m — practical height, excellent results | 10 m, 12 m, 6 m, 4 m — size is practical, low-angle boost |
| Typical height | ~0.25 λ (shorter, easier installs) | ~0.625 λ (taller; can be unwieldy on 15–20 m) |
| Feed/match | Direct 50 Ω with proper radial plane; no coils | Direct 50 Ω target with geometry; no lossy stubs/coils |
| Elevation pattern | Single lobe; clean low-angle with good radials | Two lobes; stronger low-angle DX lobe on supported bands |
| Bandwidth / SWR | Stable SWR on target band; no tuner needed | Characteristic dual-dip SWR; broad usable region on target band |
| Practicality | Compact, rugged, consistent on 15–20 m | Shines on 10/12/6/4 m; above 12 m, added height brings less benefit |
| Bottom line | Choose 1/4 λ for 15–20 m: best mix of size, performance, and simplicity | Choose 5/8 λ for 10/12/6/4 m: stronger low-angle DX where size is manageable |
Simple, Rugged, and Optimized for Real Conditions
The 1/4 λ vertical is a proven performer—and with the VertiCore 1/4th series, we refine that classic into a compact, robust, and no-nonsense monoband antenna for 15 m, 17 m, and 20 m.
Precision Feedpoint Placement
While many commercial designs place the feedpoint at the base, we elevate it 30 cm above the bottom, aligned with the radial plane. This is not cosmetic:
- Improves current taper and feedpoint stability
- Reduces capacitive coupling to ground
- Lowers mismatch losses, bringing SWR closer to 1:1
This placement results in more consistent impedance and improved efficiency, especially in environments with varying soil conditions.
Rigid Radials for Consistent Pattern and Low Losses
The VertiCore 1/4th uses four rigid 45° radials, providing a predictable current return path and maintaining the right radiation geometry. The rigid structure:
- Avoids detuning from sagging or movement
- Reduces reactive imbalance
- Keeps lobes clean and elevation angle low for DX
Compact but Not Compromised
Even with a shorter physical footprint than 5/8 designs, the VertiCore 1/4th delivers:
- Excellent low-angle radiation with proper radial deployment
- Stable impedance without needing a tuner
- Reliable pattern for both local and long-haul contacts
Monoband Purity Without Tricks
These are true monoband antennas: no traps, no coils, no shared elements. That means no insertion loss, no intermodulation risk, and no surprises. Perfect for stations that want maximum performance on a single band with minimal complexity.
- 1/4 λ (VertiCore 1/4th) — The right call for 15 m, 17 m, 20 m. A 5/8 λ at these bands becomes too tall and the incremental low-angle advantage narrows.
- 5/8 λ — The winner on 10 m, 12 m, 6 m, 4 m. Size remains practical and the stronger low-angle lobe clearly helps DX.
Conclusion
The VertiCore 1/4th is the stripped-down, purpose-built vertical antenna for hams who value rugged simplicity, stable feedpoint impedance, and reliable DX performance.
Sometimes less is more—especially when it's engineered with purpose.
Mini-FAQ
- Which bands are covered? — 15 m, 17 m, and 20 m as dedicated monoband builds.
- Do I need a tuner? — No, each VertiCore 1/4th is designed for direct 50 Ω feed.
- Why only 1/4 λ here? — On 15–20 m, a 5/8 λ would be too tall, while the 1/4 λ offers excellent efficiency and practicality.
- How about DX? — With proper radials, the 1/4 λ delivers clean low-angle radiation, perfect for long-haul contacts.
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