GoHabsGo wrote:
"Dave" wrote in
rica:

Was talking with someone the other day and mentioned that I had just
grounded the TV antenna (the mast, actually) to protect against
lightning strikes, and they said that was not such a good idea because
lightning is more likely to strike a path that goes straight to
ground. Now I am not sure what to do. Anyone have any input on this
topic? Ideas are gratefully received...

Antennas should be grounded in two ways. First the mast should be grounded
and second, the cable feeding from the antenna should be grounded to a
grounding block that is wired to a ground source before entering the home.

Grounding is not only for lightning strikes. Wind blowing over the tines
creates static electrical charge that will be discharged through the ground
wire.

Larry

The NEC (if you are in the US) requires the earthing Larry describes. It
must be to the same earthing system as the power and telephone.

A separate ground rod that is not tied to the power earthing system is a
code violation and bad idea. I wouldn't even use a rod if it is bonded
to the power earthing system. With a close strike, like to a tree, the
rod can be thousands of volts from the earthing system used for power.
That voltage shows up at TVs and anything else connected to the antenna
and power.

The earthing is not for a direct lightning strike - it is totally
inadequate. If you expect the antenna (and house systems) to survive a
direct strike you would have to use the much more elaborate protection
used by hams.

--
bud--