I simply put one side of the feed point where the shield would connect, and the other where the center conductor connects. That is how I always thought said connections should be connected.
When it comes to overall performance differences between antennas, most of this is something that both Eddie and I have both stated multiple times, and we both agree that the difference is even less when mounted at the same tip height. That being said, sometimes I find parts of a model that shows me something that I didn't already know, or that seemed to work differently than expected. The early part of matching the above antenna design for example. Just because we know that in general these antennas all seem to perform about the same, that doesn't mean that their isn't more to learn by making these models. I think the effort is still valid.
This might be more difficult that you think. I don't have any Vector 4000 models that includes a full and functional matching network, and while the pattern shouldn't be affected significantly by such a device, putting such a direct comparison up wouldn't be fair, and some people would see it as such and read more into it than they should. If you just want a basic pattern, I am happy to go back and find one, possibly the one based on HomerBB's dimensions to the antenna he states is the best performing vertical antenna he has ever made. I would have to dig it up however. If I find it I will post it, just don't try and use it as a direct comparison between these antennas.
If you can wait until I get around to it, at some point I intend to make a Vector 4000 model including full gamma matching. It is on my list of things I want to do. I am curious as to how it will compare to a raw model with no matching included in several specific ways. There are differences in how certain things work on a stock model with no matching and what Shockwave (who used to post here) has told me happens on his actual test antennas, one of them happens to be the effects of the diameter of the ring and its effects on gain, my models show max gain at much wider ring diameters than his live test antennas...
I know most people see these antennas a certain way, and that is fine, but there are details about this antenna design that no one has addressed, and I find fascinating. I think there is still more going on with this antenna than many people realize...
The DB
