I need some grounding tips....
hey everyone,
Long time reader, first time poster. >:)
This is my scenario:
I will be using an STL to trnasmit my studio broadcast audio to my transmitter which may be mounted on a 13 story (approx 130 foot) building. Now...the problemis grounding as I will not be able to run ground wire all the way to the ground (earth).
I need to here some of your best grounding tips for this particular situation: when your ground isn't going into the ground.
Thanks!
Hi, and welcome to the board.
Are you using AM or FM?
Neil
It will be AM and I will be using an Outdoor RangeMaster.
Hi!
Just in case you can access this:
You're going to need some type of radial system to maximize your signal. Since you are on a roof use as many as you can and run them to the edge of the roof if possible. Ideally you would have some kind of earth ground where you mount the antenna such as a metal vent pipe where you can strap your ground connection.
Your biggest obstacle may be what the building owner will allow in the way of ground radials on the roof and what type of roof is there. If you were really lucky the roof would be metal and you could just tie into it. (Then you could skip the radials.)
Thanks for your help TechPuppy!
If I was able to, I'd drive the grounding pole right into the seawater!
Hi again,
One of my posts got lost when the site was attacked, so I repeat.
The Rangemaster site has some information regarding AM transmitters on rooftops and grounding. Check it out.
Some good advice was also offered regarding using radials on the roof. I think this is worth considering.
Many buildings of this height have antennas installled. Are there any towers or other antennas on the roof. If so, you might check out their grounding schemes. Don't attach to their grounds unless you discuss it with them first. I have been in this situation and all worked out well, but I was installing a VHF ham radio system. The ground was only for lightning protection. It worked....a 3/8 inch hole was blown in my antenna and the transmitter just kept working. It is a different ball game on AM BC frequencies since the ground becomes part of the radiating system/
I would not recommend driving a 10 foot ground stake through the roof!
Neil
Thanks for your help and guidance guys, will be keeping you posted.
Mike Frankson
RXA Radio, Inc.