[TowerTalk] Radio location in relation to antenna

Bob Wanderer aa0cy@nwrain.com
Mon, 18 Oct 1999 12:15:20 -0700


Don, I think you're setting yourself up for some problems which while
solvable are better avoided.

I've operated under the conditions you described, although at a
maximum of 500 W out.  I didn't have a hot mike or other indications
of RF in the shack, but I did have problems with RF affecting the 
computer, telephones and televisions which I didn't have in 
an earlier installation where the station was at
ground level (although the distance to the antenna was about the
same).  Most of the problems occurred at 500 W and were either
tolerable or non-existant at 100 W; some of the problems were not
caused by my setup but were power co or telco problems which were
fixed once I ascertained the cause.  I was unable to fully fix the computer
problems.

Nevertheless, the biggest issue is grounding, both RF and for surge
protection.  You *may* be able to get an adequate ground by using
wide (6") copper strap (#6 just ain't gonna cut the mustard).  
You didn't indicate how far to the earth you'd be.
Make sure you avoid odd multiples of a 1/4 wave at ALL ham freqs.  Again,
it sounds to me like you'd be better off staying where you are.

73,
Bob AA0CY

----------
From:  thaxton@ptgroup.com[SMTP:thaxton@ptgroup.com]
Sent:  Sunday, October 17, 1999 6:09 PM
To:  towertalk@contesting.com
Subject:  [TowerTalk] Radio location in relation to antenna



    I am considering moving my radio gear out of the lower level of 
my house to the upper level.  My reason is that I can convert a 
couple of 30 amp circuts over to 220V I had installed to run my 
computer gear when I first started my company.  I don't need them 
anymore.

    The new location would put my gear about 15 feet under the roof 
mount antenna I have just installed.  I also have a couple of dipoles 
layed across this section of the roof as well.  I would be running an 
amp rated at 1.5kw if I decide to relocate and fire up a 220V circut.

    So what kind of RF problems would or could I be setting myself 
up to experience? Would the proximity to the antenna pose a 
problem? What should I consider if I do this? Should I maintain a 
larger distance(55 feet now) from my antenna's such as I have 
now?  What precautions, RF wise, should I be considering?  Will I 
glow in the dark? :)

Any feedback or comments would be most appreciated.

Don
N0FGK


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