6kW VertX 20M-6M

VertX is a smarter multiband fan vertical engineered for low loss, clean feedline behavior, and consistent low-angle DX. The feedpoint is raised ~1.1 m above the radial field, the 20 m radiator is a full quarter-wave starting at that feedpoint, and the higher-band fan wires start ~20 cm above the main radiator to align with the high-current zone. The result: less ground coupling loss, stronger low-angle radiation, and predictable tuning across 20–6 m.

Specs at a Glance

What’s Included

• VertX modular aluminum radiator (20–6 m fan configuration)
• Integrated high-power common-mode choke at the feedpoint (factory installed)
• RVS INOX 316 stainless mounting plate
• 2 × ASA plates for fan element mounting
• Protective cap for the aluminum pole
• Stainless hardware kit
• Optional: Radial plate + radial kit (see below)
• Optional: Heavy-Duty Ballast Frame for 50×50 cm tiles with Ø60.3 mm pole (1.1 m)

Radial Kits

The radial plate is optional. Choose a kit that matches your footprint and efficiency goals. For ground-mounted systems, radial count matters more than exact resonance:

• Good: 16 × 5 m radials — compact, effective baseline.
• Better: 24 × mixed lengths (8 × 5.3 m, 8 × 3.6 m, 8 × 2.7 m) — lower ground loss and smoother band balance.
• Best: 32 × mixed radials (e.g., 10 × 5.3 m, 12 × 3.6 m, 10 × 2.7 m) spread evenly over 360° — near-solid RF ground and maximum efficiency on all bands.

Why This Geometry Works

• Raised feedpoint: ~1.1 m above the radial plane reduces near-soil coupling and favors low angles.
• Center element: 35 mm aluminum pole ensures rigidity and high current handling.
• Fan support: Two ASA plates keep higher-band wires aligned in the high-current zone.
• 10 m optimization: Three dedicated elements deliver wide bandwidth and stable efficiency.
• No loading tricks: Pure quarter-wave elements; no lossy linear loading or folded compromises.

Operating Bands & Modes

• 20 m: Full ¼-wave radiator provides stable, efficient low-angle DX.
• 17 m & 15 m: Fan wires aligned at current maxima ensure balanced, efficient radiation patterns.
• 12 m: Clean, low-angle DX capability with a proper radial field.
• 10 m: Three dedicated elements deliver broad bandwidth and strong radiation efficiency — ideal for contesting.
• 6 m: Low SWR and efficient pattern; excellent for sporadic-E and competitive operation.

As a true vertical, VertX favors low-angle DX across all supported bands. It is not intended for NVIS use.

Radiation Angles per Band

*Angles modeled at 6–10 m mounting height with a proper radial field in average ground. Real-world values vary with soil, surroundings, and installation.

Installation Notes

• Height: 6–10 m AGL in the clear is ideal for low-angle DX.
• Radials on ground: Select one of the kits above; for ground-mounted systems, more radials beats resonant cutting.
• Elevated radials: If raised (~0.05–0.1 λ), 2–4 tuned per band can replace the ground mat.
• Optional ballast frame: Freestanding mounting when no fixed mast is available (50×50 cm tiles, Ø60.3 mm pole, 1.1 m).

Electrical Specifications

• Bands: 20 m, 17 m, 15 m, 12 m, 10 m, 6 m (fan vertical)
• Power Rating: 6 kW ICAS / 3 kW PEP / 1.5 kW FT8/FT4 (integrated high-power choke)
• Feedpoint: 50 Ω; feedpoint located ~1.1 m above radial plane
• Typical SWR: Low SWR on 6 m; tuner-friendly across HF bands (installation dependent)

Mechanical Characteristics

• Radiator: 35 mm marine-grade aluminum, modular sections
• Base Hardware: RVS INOX 316 stainless mounting plate
• Fan Plates: 2 × ASA for precise spacing and element support
• Fasteners: Stainless steel throughout
• Weather Protection: Protective pole cap; outdoor-rated fittings

Optional Accessories

• Radial Plate: Optional plate to simplify kit attachment and strain relief
• High-power feedline isolation: 9 kW Wide Band HF High Power +30 dB CMR Line Isolator (1.5–30 MHz) for multi-antenna or harsh RFI sites
• Heavy-Duty Ballast Frame: 50×50 cm tiles, Ø60.3 mm pole, 1.1 m

Notes on SWR & Real-World Installs

Performance depends on radial system, height, soil, feedline routing, and nearby structures. Measure SWR after installation and adjust height/radials for best results.

Mini-FAQ

• Is NVIS supported? — No. VertX is a low-angle vertical optimized for DX.
• Do I need an external choke? — Not normally. VertX includes a high-power integrated choke; add a line isolator only in difficult RFI layouts.
• What mast does it fit? — The base plate fits a Ø60.3 mm pole (typical steel/aluminum masts).
• What maintenance is needed? — Use AL-1100 aluminum paste during assembly; re-check fasteners every few years or after severe weather.