Calculating the Input Impedance of a Tapered Vertical Antenna PDF

This article, published in Ham Radio (August 1985), provides a detailed guide on how to calculate the input impedance of a tapered vertical antenna, a popular choice among radio amateurs for 80 and 160 meters. Written by Walter J. Schulz, K3OQF, the article explains the challenges of determining the feedpoint impedance for tapered antennas and introduces the Schelkunoff procedure as the most effective method for accurate calculations. The article includes step-by-step instructions, formulas, and graphical data to help readers compute the impedance of tapered vertical elements, which are often constructed from durable aluminum tubing. Additionally, the article provides a practical example and a program for the HP-41C calculator to simplify the process. This resource is invaluable for amateur radio operators looking to design and optimize tapered vertical antennas for improved performance.