[Elecraft] Grounding

[WA9GQT@aol.com]

Yes! 
      Always disconnect and ground antennas to earth when not in use.  Never 
operate when a storm is nearby.  I had a second story shack once and used a 
ground wire running down along the siding to earth ground.  I always grounded 
my antennas to that ground wire when I was off the air.  One day the antenna 
got disconnected from the ground by about 3/4 to 1 inch.  There was a nearby 
storm & I happened to check my shack & noticed a spark jump from the ground 
wire to the antenna. WOW. 
     Just think if a radio had been connected to that antenna!!!  This system 
worked for me even when we had a direct hit in our backyard. I think there is 
truth about the ground umbrella affect!  Never fried a radio yet! 

73, Rod WA9GQT  K2  # 1900