Appendix C: Grounding and RF protection
TT-98-129218-A
Alternative grounding for steel hulls
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Alternative grounding for steel hulls
The following guidelines assume a two-wire, isolated grounding arrangement; that is no part of
the circuit, in particular the battery negative, is connected to any ground potential or equipment.
Grounding the terminal
The terminal must be grounded to the ship with the short antenna cable and the Grounding kit
(accessories). Further, the terminal must be grounded at its grounding stud in order to ensure a
proper grounding if the short antenna cable is disconnected.
The ground connection can be established either at the hull (recommended) or at a dedicated RF
ground if available (alternative). However, bear in mind that the antenna ground connection is to
be made at the
same electrical ground potential as the terminal
(see
Grounding the antenna
).
The terminal provides galvanic isolation (as required) from its input power terminals to the
chassis/grounding stud. This way the isolated grounding arrangement is maintained.
Grounding the antenna
Terminal grounded at the hull (recommended)
In this case the antenna is grounded to the ship via one (or more) of its mounting bolts. Make sure
to remove painting, dirt, grease etc. at the mounting holes in order to make good electrical contact
to the hull. Use serrated washers when securing the mounting bolts and seal the joint with
protective coating to avoid corrosion.
