[TowerTalk] Grounding, portable generators, field day

[Jim Lux]

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