antenna & coax cable

[JohnSPWD]

Hi,I have a BCD996 I usually listen to 800mhz.I have the stock antenna on it in my house.If I put up an outside antenna the coax cable will have a run of 30' to get to the outside of my house.Then it will have to travel up how ever high the antenna needs to be.Everything is with in 20 miles I listen to.Any help on coax and antenna?And also at the entrance into my house do I need to install a coax surge protector?

 

[SAR923]

Are you sure you even need to install an outside antenna? If everything you want to listen to is within 20 miles, a better portable antenna may be the answer. If you mostly listen to 800, the RS 800 antenna may be all you need. If you listen to other bands as well, Diamond makes several different antennas that may suit your needs. If you really want to install an outside antenna, the quality of coax will make all the difference when listening to 800. The minimum would be a good RG-6 or, better, LMR-400. There are a number of good antennas available but you need to decide if you want one that only covers 800 or has broader coverage. You don't really need to have a coax surge protector but good grounding of the antenna and mast may save you from some unfortunate consequences if lightning strikes.