Do multiple antenna connectors need to be isolated?

[RJB23]

I am planning to build an antenna connection panel with several Type N bulkhead connectors running through it. Do the bulkhead connectors need to be isolated from each other? In other words, can I use a metal plate with multiple bulkhead connectors through it, or should it be made of an insulating material to ensure they are isolated? The purpose is for a junction box to connect to multiple antennas.

Thanks!

 

[mmckenna]

I am planning to build an antenna connection panel with several Type N bulkhead connectors running through it. Do the bulkhead connectors need to be isolated from each other? In other words, can I use a metal plate with multiple bulkhead connectors through it, or should it be made of an insulating material to ensure they are isolated? The purpose is for a junction box to connect to multiple antennas.

Thanks!

Ideally you want them all connected. Very frequently you'll see a common copper buss bar used for this at commercial radio sites. Idea is that you want a common grounding point. Instead of bulkhead connectors, usually a lightning protection device, like a PolyPhaser is used.

If you are doing this in your shack, you would want to consider proper grounding to National Electric Code, and this is an easy way to do it.