Regarding the 1750 meter license-free band in the USA (160-190 kHz), 47 CFR Part 15.217 states in full (see my question at bottom):(a) The total input power to the final radio frequency stage (exclusive of filament or heater power) shall not exceed one watt.
(b) The total length of the transmission line, antenna, and ground lead (if used) shall not exceed 15 meters.
(c) All emissions below 160 kHz or above 190 kHz shall be attenuated at least 20 dB below the level of the unmodulated carrier. Determination of compliance with the 20 dB attenuation specification may be based on measurements at the intentional radiator's antenna output terminal unless the intentional radiator uses a permanently attached antenna, in which case compliance shall be demonstrated by measuring the radiated emissions.
Here's my question, regarding (b). In the case of a vertical intended radiator, would any horizontal top-hat wires count as being part of the antenna even though they are basically non-radiating? I am assuming YES, they would count, since they have also specifically included any ground leads used so presumably they would have intended to include top hat wires. But still, these regulations were written long after our predecessors more than a century ago understood the value of top-hat wires (indeed written regulations had yet to be created back then), so it's not like top hat wires were unknown at the time the Part 15 regulations were written, and yet they are not specifically included. What do the assembled experts here think?
73 and thanks for any thoughts,
Bruce WA1HGJ