Caribbean Contesting with Team Vertical: K2KW Tells Us How

Kenny Silverman, K2KW, is a veteran ham radio operator known for his work with Team Vertical, a group that made significant contributions to contest DXpeditions by using vertical antennas placed at the water’s edge to enhance low-angle signal propagation.
Kenny’s passion for travel and operating from remote locations often led him to plan trips around contest schedules. His dedication to experimenting with antenna strategies resulted in the formation of Team Vertical, which set records with its innovative approach.
In this discussion, Kenny delves into the planning process for the 2023 DXpedition to Anegada in the British Virgin Islands for the ARRL 10 Meter Contest. He offers practical advice on selecting locations, the importance of antenna placement, and the value of thorough research. Kenny also challenges the conventional preference for horizontal antennas, demonstrating how verticals can excel in specific conditions, particularly when low takeoff angles are critical for long-distance contacts.
Whether you’re an experienced operator or new to the hobby, Kenny’s insights provide valuable considerations for your own DXpedition efforts.
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[@jslawsby_W5GI]

Great video. I emailed with Kenny as I own a house on Anegada where he is doing the 10M contest from. My QTH is about 2 miles down the beach. I use a DX Commander for now
73
Jonathan, W5GI, VP2V/W5GI

[@w1dedworldwidehamradio]

In a parasitic array (like the 2-element parasitic vertical array), only one of the elements (the driven element) is directly fed with a signal, while the other element(s) (parasitic elements) interact with the driven element’s electromagnetic field. The parasitic element achieves its phase difference naturally through its physical placement and length relative to the driven element:
Reflector: Typically slightly longer than the driven element, creating a phase shift that results in the signal being reflected.
Director: Slightly shorter than the driven element, causing a phase shift that directs the signal forward.
So while parasitic arrays involve elements that have phase differences, they are not actively phased in the same way that true phased arrays are, where phase differences are electronically controlled. Instead, the phase differences in parasitic arrays are a result of the physical properties and positioning of the elements. (ARRL Antenna Book)

[@timothyhaueter7651]

Hello, Kenny. de W6NS Tim