The sloping legs modify impedance and create a more omnidirectional pattern than a horizontal dipole.
Antennas · F1SYH
Inverted-V dipole
An Inverted-V is a dipole with a high centre and both legs sloping toward the ground.
HF
Dipôle
Un seul support
Operating principle
Main characteristics
Typical gain
Proche du dipôle
Impedance
Souvent 45 à 60 Ω
Polarization
Horizontale et mixte
Difficulty
Facile
Dimensions and design
Starting length is the same as a normal dipole. The apex angle should preferably remain above about 90 degrees.
Construction and tuning
Step 1
Install one central support.
Step 2
Cut two symmetrical legs.
Step 3
Keep ends out of reach.
Step 4
Add a 1:1 current balun.
Step 5
Tune both legs equally.
Advantages
- Only one main mast.
- Impedance often close to 50 Ω.
- Fairly omnidirectional pattern.
- Simple construction.
Limitations
- Ends close to the ground.
- Slightly less gain than a horizontal dipole.
- Interaction between legs.
- Very narrow apex angle is undesirable.
History and origin
The Inverted-V became popular as a field antenna requiring only one high support.
Safety
Keep the high-voltage ends away from people and animals.