One can best understand what a short dipole is by reviewing its relation to a dipole antenna. This is essentially the simplest form an antenna can take. Usually made from wire or small rods, the short dipole antenna best resembles a set of "rabbit-ear" antennas typically found on older televisions. The term "short" refers to the physical length of the antenna being comparatively shorter than the actual radio signal wavelength.
While ham radio operators are typically familiar with radio antenna terms, individuals unfamiliar with such terminology may need a simple breakdown. The primary purpose and design of radio antennas is to receive or transmit radio signals. If these signals were visible, they would resemble waves on the ocean, with crests and valleys. One can determine the frequency of any given radio signal by measuring the proximity or distance of the crests from one to the next.
For instance, closer crests transmit higher frequencies, while distant crests transmit lower frequencies. The distance from the top of one crest to the next is one complete cycle. Frequency is the number of complete cycles in one second. In other words, if a succession of waves crashed on the beach, 200 times per second, that frequency would measure out at 200 Hertz (Hz).
Anyone who has turned a radio dial likely agrees there are enormous numbers of radio signals filling the air, each with its own designated frequency. Radio antennas are strategically designed to cover this broad spectrum of frequencies, as it would be virtually impossible to supply every radio station with a different antenna for each frequency. The benefit of short dipole antennas is that their design covers a significant range of these different frequencies. One radio, therefore, can receive most stations with its one antenna, thanks to the short dipole component.
It is important for an individual to understand there are multiple radio frequencies one can receive. A ham radio operator may choose to tune in to any one of those frequencies at any given time. Aside from delving into the intricacies of antenna design, it is best understood that a short dipole antenna is the most efficient method for receiving these wireless signals. Short dipole antennas are also practical tools for tuning larger broadcast antennas, as they can help determine signal loss, signal match, and impedance, or the frequency domain ratio of voltage to current. These terms relate to the production of high-power broadcast antennas, which are different from receiving antennas.