Vertical Antenna

Vertical Antenna (aka Marconi or Monopole)

Vertical is primarily a 1/2 wave where 1/4 wave is a vertical standing element and the other 1/4 is a series of radials that rest no the floor or buried underground. The optimum number of radials is arguable but 32 is a sweet spot[^1]

Parts of a vertical:

• Whip (or stinger) - part that goes up, is the conducting surface
• Radials - ground wires

Pros:

• Better takeoff angle
• does not depend as much on height

Cons:

• to match dipole performance often many radials are needed
• Higher noise than a dipole

Antennas for Amateur Radio#Whip
Antennas for Amateur Radio#Half Vertical