[RFI] Is a Ground-Shortening Switch Better?

[Roger (K8RI)]

Andy wrote:
>> Is a ground-shortening coax-antenna switch preferred
>> for lightning/static reasons?
>>
>> Any down side?
>>     
>
> Forgetting to throw it before the storm comes!
>
> The best place for a switch (or physical disconnect) is before the feedline
> enters your shack, with the shortest possible connection to ground.  Which
> makes it inconvenient to toggle.  Putting the switch inside the shack adds
> risk.
>
>   
Mount it on the bulkhead grounding plate and run a phenolic rod through 
the wall with a handle allowing the short ground path, yet the 
convenience and safety of the inside actuation.

I have too many lines coming in, so I rarely bother to disconnect 
anything including the CAT5e and CAT6 lines to the shop from the house.

73

Roger (K8RI)
> For discharging static before it builds up to dangerous levels, a switch
> inside probably works.  But for anything approaching a direct hit (keeping
> in mind that nothing can save you from an actual direct hit), putting the
> switch inside brings the energy from the lightning into your house, which
> could ruin your day.
>
> Andy
>
>
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