On Wed, 14 Apr 2004 06:43:35 GMT, zeno wrote:
Should I just go with the 4" spacing because it looks cool?

Fer Sure, Dude!

The choice is simply one of maximizing copper to minimize loss. If
you expect a wide variation of Z through using the radiator across a
larger variation of frequency, it is hard to choose one single
determiner of line Z outside of this consideration. You could use the
same logic to select 50 Ohm line (there is absolutely nothing magical
about the value); however, cost becomes prohibitive due to a larger
conductor for the inside lead driving the size of everything else to
obtain the same loss figure as the cheaper, simple twin lead
construction.

So, there you have it, cool and cheap (true to only the frugal
Amateurs's perception of reality).

As for another question about coming in through the wall. You idea
would work suitably. The only problem is in having it penetrate house
insulation that is foil-backed (without you being aware of that being
so). Some would offer the penetration presents no problem as it is
for a very small interval. In the large scheme of things, quite true;
and yet as a site dislocality (humorously called a bump in Z) this is
where additional SWR will be present with a corresponding
magnification of V and the possibility of breakdown. This is
unlikely, but this would be where it happens if "likely" occurs. As
things go, it is all a probabilistic issue - the insurers have tables
for this.

73's
Richard Clark, KB7QHC