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Earthing and the radio amateur

Stewart Mason
I've recently joined the IET forums. I replied to a  topic regarding amateur radio and PME on the old forum. Unfortunately I cant access the old forum anymore so I thought it would be best to start a new topic.


So. On the bench there is a transceiver with a metal case. Next to the transceiver there is a antenna tuning unit which is connected to a antenna system which is using an earth rod. Am I right in saying there is a chance of a potential difference between the two metal cases of the equipment regardless if it is a TT, TNS or TNCS?


What would be the ideal solution?  Put the shack on it's own TT supply and bond all the radio equipment back to the MET of the TT and if a earth rod is used for the antennas connect that back to the MET also?


If the TT system was not an option what would be best if the supply was a PME and you didn't want to use balanced antennas removing the use of an earth rod? 


To be honest I've never really given PME's and amateur radio much thought which in hindsight was probably a mistake. I do remember when I did my training an earth rod was recommended for the radios.


Apologies for being so random.


Stewart M0SDM
  • 0
    You have a choice, Use the PME terminal, complying with the ESQCR regs, or TT the whole property. 

    Regards, UKPN
  • Former Community Member
    0 Former Community Member
    Hi folks I have had a similar discussion here - https://communities.theiet.org/discussions/viewtopic/1037/26122

    Unfortunately for me I live next to a substation and the DNO earth mat is right next to where I am so I cannot RF earth my antenna.


    You can consider getting this socket as a way to reduce RFI and prevent surges from the incoming mains (i presume it would also prevent spikes from going back into the mains supply) - https://www.edwardes.co.uk/products/mk-k1826whi-logic-plus-2g-13a-dp-spike-and-rfi-filter-socket


    I have just decided to live with PME earth, not ground my  antenna (mounted outdoors on second floor out of touch) and put wooden radiator covers on the radiator and use a wooden table (good reason to go out and buy an oak table!).

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