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Normally, the FCC should be installed with the isolated SO-239 on the antenna side of the feedline.
This will substantially reduce unwanted feedline radiation or unwanted signals without the need for
an improved antenna ground system. This is especially true for center-fed verticals or any antenna
where the feedline parallels an active antenna element.
The ground terminal on the FCC is a convenient way to ground the shield of the coax cable, if
necessary. If the FCC is mounted in close proximity to ground level on an insulated support or post,
a short wire to a dedicated ground system might be needed. A 5 foot long, 3/4 inch OD copper pipe
can be used. The ground wire should be kept as short as possible to prevent any resonance.
Do not
attach an antenna ground system, counterpoise, or radial array to this terminal.
If the FCC is used near the operating position, a short connection to the station ground might be
helpful.
Note:
Some experimentation with the ground system may be needed. In some case, grounding the
FCC may result in poor performance or a higher noise level. This is typically caused by ground
loops with other equipment. There is no reduction in performance if the FCC case is not grounded
The FCC is not affected by moisture and may be left outside in all types of weather, including
heavy rain, as long as it is positioned so that water will drain from the case. However, they may not
be
immersed
in water and care should be taken to avoid blocking the drainage of any water that
could get inside. To enhance weather resistance, it may be useful to put a bead of high quality, non
corrosive, marine grade silicone, like DX Engineering part number
UMI-82180
,
along the seam
where the two halves of the case meet. Depending on the mounting orientation, leave a small
opening in the seam at the lowest point to allow any condensation to drain. Silicone which contains
acetic acid, which has a vinegar-like smell, is corrosive to aluminum and should be avoided.
Lightning Protection
Proper lightning protection should be installed for any antenna system. Lightning suppressors
should be installed on the feedline before they enter the house. The suppressor normally grounds the
feedline at that point. See our web-site,
www.dxengineering.com
, for more information on lightning
protection and grounding.
