Comprehensive theory of the e-field probe

There are a number of good and a number of bad approaches to explaining the function of e-field probes. Daniel, LU2DDU, a professor emeritus at the Universidad de la Plata in Argentina, rolled up his sleeves and wrote the first comprehensive treatise on the topic, including the build of an individual e-field probe.
If you have any questions about the content, Daniel can be contacted via the email address lu2ddu +++ gmail . com.

Daniel A. Esteban (2024):
Electromagnetic Analysis of Short Monopole and Electric Field Sensor
as Receiving Antennas for VLF - LF

Theory of Operation of the Electric Field Sensor
VLF - LF, 15 kHz to 515 kHz

Impedance Adapters for Electric Field Sensors
for VLF - LF, 15 kHz to 515 kHz

Recepcion Emisores VLF - LF
(in Spanish)

Dependence of the Antenna Factor on the Environment
in which the Electric Field Sensor is located
VLF - LF, 15 kHz to 515 kHz

Fundamental e-field probe practice

The practical application of the e-field probe, i. e. the combination of the e-field sensor and the impedance converter, is inextricably linked to Roelof, PA0RDT. Over 20 years ago, Roelof systematically examined the properties of e-field probes and through practical experience created an extremely useful receiving device known as the PA0RDT MiniWhip.
Anyone who has ever experimented with a self-built e-field probe or the original MiniWhip by PA0RDT will recognize many aspects from LU2DDU's theory of the e-field sensor such as:

- The higher the e-field probe is mounted, the greater the field strength received.
- The coaxial cable/the pole is part of the e-field sensor, so the probe will not work properly if screwed directly onto a handheld radio.
- Grounding the coaxial cable improves the reception properties because it not only short-circuits common mode noise, but also transports the ground potential up to the probe.
...

Roelof Bakker:
The PA0RDT-Mini-Whip

The PA0RDT-Mini-Whip, an active receiving antenna for 10 kHz to 20 MHz