Quick Dumb Question On PolyPhaser Protectors

[Merovingian]

I am semi new to these "lightning protectors" for the coax coming in from an antenna so I have a probably dumb question regarding these. Aside from some of the obvious differences (mounting type, cost, ect. . .) Are these generally the same type of protector?

https://www.polyphaser.com/type-n-surge-protector-6ghz-4ghz-gas-discharge-tube-gt-nff-al

https://www.polyphaser.com/type-n-surge-protector-400mhz-hybrid-stud-bgxz-60nfnf-cns

One offers I'm guessing 0Hz - 6GHz frequency capability the other only 40MHz - 400MHz. One is ~$48, the other ~$155. Does the more expensive one offer better lightning protection? Are they both doing the same thing? I would have to guess that the more expensive one is doing something more specific that the cheaper one (for transmitters?). I would be using one of these to help protect my SDR so I won't be using these on a transmitter. It seems I would only need to cheaper one if they are both doing the same thing, it has the frequency range I need for everything.

Any clarity would be helpful.

Thanks.

 

[mmckenna]

There's a number of differences between those.

The GT-NFF-AL model is a "DC Pass" type, which means it allows sending power up the coaxial cable. This is important for things like Tower Top Amplifiers, GPS antennas, etc.
The other one is not listed as DC pass.

Unless you have a specific need to send power back up the coaxial cable, there's no point in paying for it.
For what you are doing, the lower cost one is fine if it covers your frequencies.

Remember, they are only as good as your ground. There's really not a point in installing one of these if you are not providing them with a good ground connection.

 

[Merovingian]

Thanks! I would need the DC Pass for my Wellbrook Loop and maybe a couple other antennas. I have a single ground rod for the house I would be grounding the antenna to.

There's a number of differences between those.

The GT-NFF-AL model is a "DC Pass" type, which means it allows sending power up the coaxial cable. This is important for things like Tower Top Amplifiers, GPS antennas, etc.
The other one is not listed as DC pass.

Unless you have a specific need to send power back up the coaxial cable, there's no point in paying for it.
For what you are doing, the lower cost one is fine if it covers your frequencies.

Remember, they are only as good as your ground. There's really not a point in installing one of these if you are not providing them with a good ground connection.

 

[RFI-EMI-GUY]

Thanks! I would need the DC Pass for my Wellbrook Loop and maybe a couple other antennas. I have a single ground rod for the house I would be grounding the antenna to.

Make sure that ground rod is at same potential as your electrical service ground rod. That means bonded together. A long explanation would be required. Read the grounding and bonding literature on the Polyphaser website.

 

[Merovingian]

Yes, it is the same ground rod used for my electrical service ground.

Make sure that ground rod is at same potential as your electrical service ground rod. That means bonded together. A long explanation would be required. Read the grounding and bonding literature on the Polyphaser website.