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I'm currently rebuilding this section, so for now a 'tongue in cheek' lecture plus equipment details...

Rule #1: Think about the type of operating you enjoy, which bands are open when you are likely to be home and focus your attention here first. Most of my antennas cost from 0-£20 so don't waste money on commercially made stuff if you can make it yourself. After all, most HF aerials are mainly wire!

New Radio vs. New Aerial?  With a bit of thought, an old FT101 with a well planned (viz.efficient) antenna will ALWAYS beat a new rig with a poor one.

Antennas vs. QRO Amplifier?  I've spent HOURS working on my receive aerial systems and to reduce noise... "If you can't hear it, you WONT work it"

How much do you think you should you pay for an Amplifier?  Answer: Less than the value you put on the time you've spent optimising your antennas.

OK, I guess you've got the general message! ;o)  What this section will focus on is detailing the design and layout of my antennas (the BIG ones in Wales and the 'Limited Space' ones in Reading), my receive aerial phasing systems and how they have a tremendous advantage in reducing local noise. In essence my website is pretty much all about "Aerials". I'll also include my experiences with DSP and Computer Software that can assist in bringing "very weak" CW and SSB out of the noise; how to eliminate 'Plasma TV' and other locally produced QRM plus all of my useful Internet links...

I usually operate an FT1000MP in Wales, an FT990 in Reading and an IC706 both /M and on 6m. Generally I run ~ 60W on 23cm/70cm/2m/6m/HF although I do have a KW1000 which I fire up for 80m DX'ing from time to time and a TS830S + FL2100Z for Top Band CW in Wales. VHF in Lampeter is an FT726R (6/2/70/SAT) plus an FT225RD which is used for 23cm (in conjunction with a quite elderly Microwave Modules Transverter) and /P on 2m.

The following links provide details about some of my existing antennas: