To me, the answer to your question(s) is simple. FD grounds should be for
RF. It would be nice to have a safety grounding system with SPG, but few
clubs have the people and other resources to put one together in a short
amount of time. If you are operating FD and see a storm approaching, shut
down!
Keith NM5G
-----Original Message-----
From: towertalk-bounces@contesting.com
[mailto:towertalk-bounces@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Jim Lux
Sent: Thursday, January 20, 2005 1:45 PM
To: towertalk
Subject: [TowerTalk] Grounding, portable generators, field day
Gosh... there haven't been any long threads on grounding in the last few
hours, so here's another one...
Here's the scenario:
You're at field day, running off a generator. You've got extension cords
strung all over the place to get AC power to your operating tents. You've
got tower trailers or temporary towers up.
What's the grounding approach?
We're talking here about safety and lightning, since most FD operations
probably won't lay out 120 "George Brown" radials. (something to think
about if you always go to the same site, though??). However, you might also
have grounds of one sort or another for RF purposes, and also, for EMI/EMC
reduction. Finally, with increased use of networked computers for logging,
you've probably got Cat5 wiring strung across the FD site. (Even though, as
hams, we really SHOULD be using wireless networking, no?)
This is equally applicable to the DXpedition or to a emergency field
situation.
I was researching some stuff on grounding for another reason, and came
across the recent (<10yrs) changes in rules about GFCI protection on
construction sites, and, also, implications on the type of transfer switch
required in a "standby power" situation (whether you need to transfer the
neutral depends on whether the generator has neutral bonded to ground).
Some generators have the frame bonded to neutral, and others don't.
Jim Lux, W6RMK
_______________________________________________
See: http://www.mscomputer.com for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless
Weather Stations", and lot's more. Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any
questions and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.
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_______________________________________________
See: http://www.mscomputer.com for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather
Stations", and lot's more. Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions
and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.
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TowerTalk mailing list
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