The term "ground" has always been used to refer to the common tie point
in a circuit. For example the shape on the schematic with the three
little horizontal lines is referred to as a "ground" symbol.
But that has caused no end of confusion. Contrary to widely-held
belief, in 99% of cases it is not necessary to tie the "ground" point to
earth for proper operation.
You often hear people say that a low-pass TVI filter must be grounded
for proper operation. If by "grounded" they mean tied to the chassis of
the transmitter, then that is correct. But if by "grounded" they mean
connected to earth, then it is absolutely not true.
People often blame TVI on inadequate earth ground. Nothing could be
farther from the truth. A connection to earth ground could make the TVI
worse, better, or (most likely) no change, depending on the particular
installation, but if you have a TVI problem it is almost certainly not
due to lack of an earth ground.
Alan N1AL
On 04/25/2014 02:16 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:
Jim is quite correct that a radial or a counterpoise should not be
referred to as 'ground'. To do so further confuses the use of "ground"
by many hams.
At least the English use words to differentiate between "earth" and
"ground" (but there is still the lack of differentiation for
counterpoises and radials).
One needs to consider AC grounds, Lightning grounds, and RF Grounds
separately. The only two that have a relationship with driven ground
rods are the AC Ground and Lightning Ground. RF ground (and RF return
path with respect to the antenna) is an entirely different
consideration, and IMHO should not be called "ground" because it rarely
is a "ground".
There is further confusion about what a "ground" is. Driven stakes do
not constitute an RF ground as one example, and a simple driven stake is
not adequate for lightning protection even though it may provide some
ESD protection.
Yes, I have given this "rant" several times on this reflector and
elsewhere. Do you have your driven ground rods connected to the utility
entrance ground rod with a large conductor (#6 or larger)? If not, you
may have created a safety hazard instead of any protection.
73,
Don W3FPR
On 4/25/2014 4:53 PM, Mike Morrow wrote:
These paragraphs demand a serious and immediate rewrite.
There's no chance that you are being just a little pedantic, perhaps?
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