Here are three models that I think might shed some light on what we heard from Joe and the 1/4 wave minimum vs. 1/2 wave maximum currents on the feed line issue.
It is important to consider what W8JI writes in this link Does different coax affect swr? Also consider the quote below that is noted near the bottom of W8JI's article. I think this problem was also demonstrated quite well in the article with a 1/2 wave horizontal dipole...just in case you missed it.
"Common mode currents are also low with a 1/4 wave feeder. In many or most cases of dipole height between 1/8th and just over 1/4 wavelength, a balun is NOT necessary provided the feed line drops straight down through open air to ground, and the feed line is grounded when it reaches the earth."
This is what you see in the attached PDF file below where the feed line is connected directly below where it touches the ground as apposed to a greater distance away at your radio and the electrical service pole.
1. the antenna with no choke at 36' feet with an even number of 1/4 wavelengths for the feedline.
2. the same antenna with a choke added to help mitigate some of the CMC.
3. the same antenna raised 9' feet for an odd number of 1/4 wavelengths of feed line.
The red lines represent currents in the models and the further away the line is from the element...the greater the magnitude of the current.
Did W8JI get it wrong or do CBr's just miss the point of what he is telling us?
