Lousy Losses

["Albert Hassick" <uncadoc-at-xxxxxxxx> (by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-xxxxxxxxxx>)]

Hi all. 
Well, this is the way I see it.  I think that even with a 5% loss in the
cardboard form that other members are alluding to.  I still do not see a
problem with the cardboard forms.  O.K., lets see now, I think that
amount of power in a Tesla coil can be achieved by a properly set and
functioning spark gap.   I will argue that even the most pristine users
of plastic/fiberglass/g-10 tube or whatever would still need to augment
their spark gaps for maximum output.  I do not think that the secondary
cardboard or plastic form would ever really make that big a difference in
the real world.  I hate to say it, but here it is!!!!!  If you want to
really improve your coil output, then you should be realistically be
trying to improve your spark gap.  The spark gap is the ultimate
denominator in all Tesla systems.  The properly set spark gap will mean
the difference between a truly awesome Tesla coil or a mediocre coil.  I
just know this as a fact!  The best arrangement possible of spark gap
electrodes will more than negate any negative bias towards a cardboard
coil.  If your spark gap is optimal, then you will meet or exceed all
given parameters for your coil!   AL.