[Elecraft] In Shack Radials and Ground

[JIMMY D HARRIS]

Hi folks,

Someone asked here about RF in the Shack.  There were several post on the 
subject.  At the risk of creating controversy and subsequent flames I have 
two comments.

Several replies that mentioned about making radials in the shack.  To me 
that only bandaids the problem.  Something is amiss if an antenna system is 
creating RF in the shack.  Tuning out the RF with radials can cut down RF in 
the shack but doesn't correct the real problem.  Correcting the real problem 
could increase ERP.

There was mention about ground rods not being a good RF ground.  For the 
most part I agree with that.  However, the wiring to the ground rod is in 
fact a radial that is some part of a wavelength long.  As we know quarter 
wavelength radials can tune out RF.   By the same token other fraction of 
wavelength ground runs (radials) can create RF in the shack when used in 
conjunction with a poorly designed antenna system.  Stay away from ground 
runs that are halfwave wavelength (or near) or multiples thereof of 
frequencies your antenna system is designed for.

'nough said......

Jim, AB0UK
K2/100  S/N 4787