Wave propagation on multifilar helices

The modes of the sheath helix are shown to be related closely to the space harmonics of real helices. Multiwire helices propagate many modes, the principal space-harmonic component of each approaching more closely the appropriate sheath helix mode as the number of wires is increased. Each mode can be excited by a certain phase sequence of exciting currents for the wires in one transverse plane. Experimental verification of the theory is reported using a bifilar helix tube. Phase velocities and impedances are measured, using Kompfner's null method and the start of backward-wave oscillations for the principal forward and backward components respectively.