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Old November 13th 06, 02:45 AM posted to rec.radio.amateur.antenna
John Smith John Smith is offline
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First recorded activity by RadioBanter: Nov 2006
Posts: 2,915
Default What is RF ground?

Wayne wrote:
"John Smith" wrote in message
...
Wayne wrote:
"John Smith" wrote in message

JS


Well, my question is in the context of rf ground being a function of the
antenna subsystem. It wasn't clear why you recommend use of a transmitter
rf ground, if the antenna system doesn't require it. Yes, I would run some
sort of rf ground at the rig if I were using a random wire fed with a tuner
in the shack, because the antenna system requires it.

My own setup is a ground mounted vertical with a modest 10 foot diameter
ground system. The "rf ground" is at the base of the antenna (as is a
separate lightning ground). The shack is on the second floor, and has only
a safety ground at the rig.


Wayne:

I see...

An antenna design requiring a system of underground ground radial(s) to
function correctly (or at least as designed), (or, for that matter,
above ground radial(s) running though bushes) would only be a "complete
antenna" if such were taken for granted had already been installed
(meaning the "rf ground-establishing" radials.)

And, if there were any chance at all I would be running a kw, and
touching both the ground radials and the ground at the same time AND
wanted to cover all special case/weird/worst-possible-cases (and I do
propose everyone should plan on this)... I would provide a nice low
ohmic earth ground for such radials (possibly useful for safety only.)
But then I am a sissy and find rf burns painful.

I didn't realize you were asking me, "If the guy has only installed half
of the antenna, should he install the "other half?" The answer to that
is all too obvious.

Yanno, those trick questions always throw me!

Regards,
JS