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Construction
A dipole antenna can be constructed of wire or of aluminum tubing. Typical high frequency (hf) dipole antennas are made from wire because of their length. Very high frequency (vhf) or ultra high frequency (UHF) dipole antennas, however, can be made from aluminum tubing because of their short length.
Antenna Length
The length of the dipole antenna is the main determinant of what frequency range it works in.
Orientation
The direction of maximum sensitivity of the dipole antenna is at right angles to its axis. To transmit in a north-south direction, for example, the dipole will have to be erected in an east-west configuration for maximum efficiency.
Versatility
A dipole antenna will also work on the multiples of the frequency that it was designed for. If designed for 80 meters it will also work on 40, 20 and 10 meters.
Configurations
A dipole antenna can be configured in a number of different ways. The traditional dipole antenna is erected horizontally. Variations to this include the "Inverted V" and the "Inverted L" configurations. It can also be erected vertically or as a "sloper."
Multiple Dipoles
Different individual dipole antennas can be hung together to form a "Fan Dipole" that is powered in the middle by a single feedline connection.