I've been listening to the VHF low band and...

[KC0UWS]

have heard absolutely nothing this past week! I have a BC-860XLT and a LONG dipole antenna that goes vertically and horizontally in all ways but haven't heard anything!

 

[ka3jjz]

Lo band skip is not as predictable as HF is. Different rules, different methods. Ole Sol is partially responsible, as it hasn't been very active lately. But there are other factors too. I'm surprised you didn't hear much during the snowstorms.

A long dipole?? Vertically and horizontally?? What's up with that? I would think a simple vertical dipole, mounted nice and high, would be a good performer. Granted that during skip the polarization of the signal can change, but I would think a primarily vertical antenna would be the way to go. 73 Mike

 

[k9rzz]

have heard absolutely nothing this past week! I have a BC-860XLT and a LONG dipole antenna that goes vertically and horizontally in all ways but haven't heard anything!

Well, a couple of things come into mind.

- That antenna (how long is it?) is probably quite directional at 30 - 50mhz and who knows in what directions. Try a 4 to 8 ft vertical wire.

- The band won't open very often this time of year. E skip will be quite prevalent in spring. Be patient.

- You should hear _something_ on ground wave if you're near a few towns. Check for baby monitors and cordless phones to start. Dial in your antenna, then look for school bus companies. They are fairly common around here on 36.xx or 47.xx mhz.

I bet you'll hear _something_ if you keep at it.

John K9RZZ