[TowerTalk] Vertical dipole other choices?

[Paul Christensen]

>"Unrelated:  In the Nov. QST in the Doctor Is In column, the author Joel
Hallas W1ZR, states that a 180 degree base fed vertical monopole needs no
ground system, only "short counterpoise rods, which look like radials but
are usually only 4-6 feet long, to provide a connection point for the shield
of the coax."  That is utterly incorrect.  It is voltage fed, but it is
still a monopole, and is still unbalanced and induces currents in the earth.
It needs a ground system."

Rob is correct.  If a 180-degree base-fed radiator at ground level didn't
require an adequate radial field to capture return current, AM broadcast
stations with 180-195 degree vertical radiators like WLS, WSM, and WLW have
all wasted a lot of money over the last 90 years.  

Paul, W9AC