Editing Propagation Basics (section)

== Checklist: will I be heard at distance X? ==
# Under about 50 km: almost any setup works; vertical polarization helps most.
# 50 to 500 km: use a low band frequency below the day's vertical MUF and a high-angle antenna (NVIS).
# 500 to 3000 km: pick a band whose window is open for the time of day (lower at night, higher by day); a dipole at good height works.
# Beyond 3000 km: choose a frequency near the path MUF, use a low-takeoff antenna aimed at the target, and prefer sensitive modes.
# Always compare the required SNR of the mode with realistic noise at the receiving end; when in doubt, drop to a narrower mode rather than raising power.

[[Category:SimTX]]