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STEP 02 / 06 · ABOUT 5 MIN

Turn frequency into length

Use units and distinguish wavelength from conductor length.

In free space, λ = c / f. Use frequency in Hz when c is in m/s. Our calculator accepts MHz and converts internally. At 145 MHz, wavelength is about 2.068 m.

A geometric half-wave dipole is about half a wavelength long. An adjustable shortening factor k is a simplified allowance for the difference in practical conductor length. k = 0.95 is a starting assumption, not a property of every wire. It does not change free-space wavelength itself.

Your turn.

Open the prepared example at 145 MHz with k = 0.95. Then set k to 1. Observe which values change and which stays the same.

Example in the wavelength calculator →
UNDERSTAND & APPLY

Check your understanding

Which quantity stays unchanged when k changes?

Sources & further documentation

Your learning path— / 6
  1. Start with the purpose
  2. Turn frequency into length
  3. Divide the dipole
  4. Include the return path
  5. Separate SWR from loss
  6. Explain your design

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