[TriLUG] OT: Lightning protection (was DTV transition and new ATSC frequencies)

[Mark Turner]

Steve Litt wrote:

> My question boils down to this: Now that in the form of an outdoor antenna I'm 
> putting up a big lightning bullseye, what can I do to minimize problems when 
> that bullseye gets hit. I think what you *COULD* take away from this article 
> is that the coax from your antenna can be bonded to your electrical service 
> ground.
>

If that bullseye gets hit *directly* no amount of anti-lightning gadgets 
will save you. The best you can ever hope for is to avoid damage from a 
nearby strike.

The heavy-gauge grounding wire going to your meter box is sufficient for 
this, though #12 gauge is too thin. I think #8 is normally used for 
grounding.

You should always weigh how much you want to invest in protection versus 
your risk.

Mark
N4JMT