Hello:
I use LMR400 and RG213 on my hex and delta loop antennas, which are grounded correctly and connected to Polyphasers.
My current configuration only allows me to run my delta loop, which I use for 40 and 80 meters, east and west. If I'm not mistaken, this gives me a north and south preference. I'd like to orient an N4GG array north and south, but use ladder line so that I can use my MFJ-962C to tune it to other bands if I so desire. The transmatch has a built in 4:1 balun, which I could use to directly connect the ladder line from antenna.
My concern isn't so much lightning strikes (I disconnect everything in the event of a storm), but rather static buildup. As mentioned, I'm not concerned about the other antennas, but introducing ladder line directly to the station is worrisome.
I spoke to DX Engineering about this, and they suggested one of their baluns from ground to station. Unfortunately, that's for short runs. My station is on the second story of our house, about 25 feet above ground. We both came to the conclusion that the balun approach, which could be grounded properly and transition ladder line to coax, is out of the question due to the long run.
I imagine I should be concerned about running ladder line directly to the transmatch, although many seem to do it. What then should I do to lessen the potential for static issues due to wind, rain, snow, etc? I have considered putting a resistor somewhere inline, but not sure where exactly to implement it.
I should likely add that I do not have my station grounded in the conventional manner due to my station's height, but everything is connected to the same bus bar in an attempt to keep it all at the same potential.
Thanks in advance.
I use LMR400 and RG213 on my hex and delta loop antennas, which are grounded correctly and connected to Polyphasers.
My current configuration only allows me to run my delta loop, which I use for 40 and 80 meters, east and west. If I'm not mistaken, this gives me a north and south preference. I'd like to orient an N4GG array north and south, but use ladder line so that I can use my MFJ-962C to tune it to other bands if I so desire. The transmatch has a built in 4:1 balun, which I could use to directly connect the ladder line from antenna.
My concern isn't so much lightning strikes (I disconnect everything in the event of a storm), but rather static buildup. As mentioned, I'm not concerned about the other antennas, but introducing ladder line directly to the station is worrisome.
I spoke to DX Engineering about this, and they suggested one of their baluns from ground to station. Unfortunately, that's for short runs. My station is on the second story of our house, about 25 feet above ground. We both came to the conclusion that the balun approach, which could be grounded properly and transition ladder line to coax, is out of the question due to the long run.
I imagine I should be concerned about running ladder line directly to the transmatch, although many seem to do it. What then should I do to lessen the potential for static issues due to wind, rain, snow, etc? I have considered putting a resistor somewhere inline, but not sure where exactly to implement it.
I should likely add that I do not have my station grounded in the conventional manner due to my station's height, but everything is connected to the same bus bar in an attempt to keep it all at the same potential.
Thanks in advance.