Metrification?

[Gross Scruggs <GScruggs@wposmtp.nps.navy.mil>]

Phil's explaination reminds me of one of my all-time favorite lines regarding
the topic of metrification: Years ago I heard a lecture on stealth technology by
the VP of the Lockheed Skunk Works, a Brit named Mr Brown, who said, "The
inverse of frequency is almost exactly the wavelength in inches... thereby
proving that God is Anglo Saxon!"  

Regards,  Gross 

>>> Phil Payne <quk@sievers.com> 05/13/97 12:46am >>>
In message <Pine.A32.3.93.970512212752.37620B-100000@kitts.u.arizona.edu> Robert
W Obrien writes:

> Someone else may know about this "problem" with my 5kcst! My '87 has an
> antenna marked "Fuba" that is three segments, extends only to about 2/3
> roof height. Is this stock/broken/replacement part? Never seen an antenna
> so short- power still works, unlike identical 88 5k with broken antenna
> about 2 1/2 ft high. Opinions?

The ideal length is a 1/4 wavelength, minus a tad.  For VHF/FM reception, say 
of a 93MHz station, the calculation (in metres) is something like:
  Speed of light:         300,000,000 
                        -----------   /  4    (quarter wave)
Frequency:               93,000,000          

So the ideal length is around 80cm, or about 20.5 inches.  Actually slightly 
shorter - electrons are funny things.

If you have your car serviced in Germany, and there's a long manual aerial 
fitted, you'll very often get it back with the top section pushed in.

--
 Phil Payne
 phil@sievers.com
 Committee Member, UK Audi [ur-]quattro Owners Club