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Old August 3rd 09, 04:54 PM posted to rec.radio.amateur.antenna
Art Unwin Art Unwin is offline
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First recorded activity by RadioBanter: Mar 2008
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Default Minimum gauge wire for connection to ground rod

On Aug 3, 10:01*am, "JB" wrote:
"KJ4NTS" wrote in message

...

On *3-Aug-2009, Brad wrote:


Is this intended as an RF ground or lightning protection?


Primarily an RF ground since the antennas will be in my attic. *However, I


would appreciate the

information for both cases.


I think code calls for #6 solid Copper or Aluminum for lightning protection.
Consider the 50 ft as part of the antenna though. *Rather than even trying
to have an RF "ground" try to make a counterpoise instead. *Read up on the
difference between RF ground, lightning ground, and electrical ground. *You
don't say what kind of antenna.


Interesting question.
The poster is in an attic which suggests he will need a very long wire
to get to a "ground." Presumably the chassis of his radio is
connected to a "ground" at a service pole via the power plug.
The antenna I assume is floating above "ground" via a inter connecting
capacitor of a low breakdown voltage to the chassis. So one has to ask
what an added "ground" wire is going to do for you and what
disadvantages with respect to protections it is it putting in place?