Mike Coslo wrote:

A little bigger components, plus a 4:1 balun, and they would have
it.

I wish that the manufacturers would include the provision for balanced
feedline. The random-length dipole, fed with balanced line, is an ideal
antenna in many cases. It's especially appropriate for disaster
situations (and simulated disasters, like Field Day). Find the two
highest supports that are available, as far apart as possible, measure
the distance, cut the wire and install the middle insulator and
feedline, hoist each end, and you're done. Now you've got a reasonably
efficient radiator (especially if there's enough distance between those
two supports) that you can use on any band, and the length of the
feedline isn't particularly critical. But it takes a tuner and balun to
make it work, and if this was included in the rig and was automatic, it
would be ideal.

73, Steve KB9X