On Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:25:04 -0000 someone who may be "Steve"
wrote this:-

I'm considering using a (Triax 5 x 8) multiswitch to distribute TV/satellite
round the house.

Antiference have a good reputation, for example
http://www.tvaerials.com/product.aspx?productid=1925. See
http://www.antiference.tv/products/distribution for further
details.

I've read that multiswitches must be earthed directly back to the CU. But
I've also seen some comments that this isn't necessary for a normal domestic
installation where power to the building is supplied on a single phase -
which is my situation.

A television aerial connected to a lead which runs down the side of
a house and through a window frame to a socket or flying lead is a
somewhat different proposition to a distribution system with cables
snaking to most rooms in the house, various aerials/dishes and a
powered amplifier. There is also the question of what the situation
is when part of the distribution system is removed, particularly in
a block of flats.

In a block of flats the cables should be earthed. As well as
protecting occupants this also protects the distribution system
installer from dodgy wiring in flats. That means using an earthing
bar or something like http://www.antiference.tv/earthlink. Remove
the multiswitch, or other part of the system and earthing is still
provided.

In a single house the issue is less clear cut. I'm not convinced
earthing bars and the like are necessary, but proper earthing is.
There is usually an earthing terminal on the multiswitch. I largely
agree with the other posting on what this should be connected to.


--
David Hansen, Edinburgh
I will *always* explain revoked encryption keys, unless RIP prevents me
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2000/00023--e.htm#54