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6kW VertiCore ¼λ – 5/8λ 4M 6M 10M 12M 15M 17M 20M
6kW VertiCore ¼λ – 5/8λ 4M 6M 10M 12M 15M 17M 20M
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VertiCore is a purpose-built monoband vertical series with clean 50 Ω behavior and integrated elevated 45° quarter-wave radials at the feedpoint. Choose 5/8 λ versions for 4 m, 6 m, 10 m, 12 m or 1/4 λ versions for 15 m, 17 m, 20 m to unlock efficient, low-angle radiation without lossy traps or gimmicks.
Specs at a Glance
Available Geometries | 5/8 λ: 4 m, 6 m, 10 m, 12 m | 1/4 λ: 15 m, 17 m, 20 m |
Feedpoint | 50 Ω with integrated elevated 45° ¼ λ radials (four-radial hub) |
Radiator | Marine-grade aluminum, no loading coils or traps |
Hardware | RVS INOX 316 stainless fasteners and fittings |
Power Handling | High-duty SSB/CW; digital modes depend on duty cycle and band (installation dependent) |
Mounting | Standard mast interface; install with the radial plane elevated and symmetrical |
Quick Comparison — 5/8 λ vs 1/4 λ
Aspect | 5/8 λ (4/6/10/12 m) | 1/4 λ (15/17/20 m) |
---|---|---|
Pattern | Two-lobe elevation with a strong low-angle DX lobe | Single clean lobe; stable low angles with elevated radials |
Matching | Near 50 Ω with correct radial geometry | Direct 50 Ω with elevated ¼ λ radials |
Use Case | DX and Es on higher bands (10/12 m, 6/4 m) | Reliable monoband performance on 15/17/20 m |
What’s Included
- VertiCore monoband radiator (band-specific 1/4 λ or 5/8 λ length)
- Integrated 4-arm radial hub with 45° elevated ¼ λ radials
- RVS INOX 316 stainless hardware set
- Integrated 6kW 1:1 BALUN
- Feedpoint assembly aligned with the radial plane
Operating Bands & Typical Angles
Band | Geometry | Indicative Takeoff Angle* |
---|---|---|
20 m | 1/4 λ | ~22–24° |
17 m | 1/4 λ | ~20–22° |
15 m | 1/4 λ | ~18–20° |
12 m | 5/8 λ | ~14–16° |
10 m | 5/8 λ | ~12–14° |
6 m | 5/8 λ | ~10–12° |
4 m | 5/8 λ | ~8–10° |
*Angles are indicative for elevated 45° ¼ λ radials in average ground; surroundings and height will shift results.
Height & Radial Guidance
- Feedpoint height: Set so the 45° radial tips clear surfaces by ≥ 0.5 m. As a rule-of-thumb, Hmin ≈ 0.707·(¼ λ) + 0.5 m.
- Symmetry matters: Route coax at right angles away from the radial plane initially.
Maintenance
Apply AL-1100 aluminum paste on all aluminum-to-aluminum interfaces during assembly to prevent galvanic corrosion and maintain low contact resistance. In coastal/polluted environments, re-apply every 2–3 years during inspection.
Notes on SWR & Real-World Installs
SWR and bandwidth depend on feedpoint height, radial symmetry, soil, and nearby structures. Measure at the feedpoint where possible; trim height or radial length to center resonance.
Mini-FAQ
- Which VertiCore is best for DX? — The 5/8 λ versions (10/12/6/4 m) emphasize a stronger low-angle lobe; the 1/4 λ models excel on 15/17/20 m with clean matching.
- Do I need a tuner? — No. VertiCore is monoband and designed for ~50 Ω when installed per guidance.
- Coils or stubs inside? — None. Pure-length radiators and elevated radials keep losses low and tuning predictable.
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