This thread is entitled "Question on the Vector." I think DB entitled it this way, because there are still questions that have not been answered. Would you have titled it as "No More Questions on the Vector" instead?
Bob, I'm still not convinced that this design is anything more than a 1/2 wave radiator that, by design, raises the radiator up a 1/4 wave higher than a typical 1/2 wave mounted on the same mast. I also believe that is the only advantage the S4 design has over the shorter 1/2 and 5/8 wave monopoles. IMO, this antenna design is not mystical like some would have us believe in this ongoing epic for how it works.
My Eznec models show pretty much what you claim except for the higher gain some have reported. But you and Donald among others, don't believe it, because you can't believe anything but your own ideas from long long ago. I've changed my mind about this antenna over time, and you've soundly criticized me for just changing my mind. IMO, you and Donald are both blinded by your own bias, and will not even consider...any other ideas on the subject...while you fuss and say I don't even read your links. It has been my wish of over 10 years to prove you right, but instead I've changed my mind. That is why I'm no longer convinced like I once was.
Bob, the S4 design may work as you and others have described in some of your very long, and complicated links, but IMO this design is not mystical in how it works.
In my opinion my S4 works beautifully. It's simplistic, and it stands alone a full 1/4 wl higher above all of its competition...and that is why it has an advantage.
Height makes might in the CB business...where according to some no BS ever pops up.
See my Eznec pattern reports attached below for my S4 at 32' feet compared to 41' feet...9' feet a 1/4 wave at CB frequencies.
Also note the difference 9' feet makes in angle for the models below.
I've also claimed the 5/8 wave monopole GP, that folks all over the world talk about as the only standard in high gain antennas, caused the same idea relative to the simple CFHW/EFHW years ago...when HyGain came out with their CLR2 for CB radios. Even Radio Shack hopped onto this band wagon.
