Static Build Up in Antennas

[Jackalope]

  It's commonly known that static will build up on your antenna, especially during thunderstorm season.  However, that same static can build up during heavy rain, snow storms, or sand storms.  Here's a short, excellent video that demonstrates static build up:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwTjUW83JgQ   The front end of an Icom IC-718 blew out due to static discharge.  Now a days I leave all antenna connections off of my radios when not in use.  I also use Alpha Delta coaxial switches with static discharge/ground connections and a discharge fuse for further protection. These same methods of protecting the radio will hopefully offer some protection in the event of an EMP, or a coronal mass ejection. Anyways, the video will make you think about static charges.

[Kbop]

yeah, i don't think the clamping diodes would survive that kind of discharge.
cool video.

[JohnyMac]

What switched did you use? The Alpha Delta TT3G50 surge protectors?

A member of my club told me I absolutely needed a surge protector for my full wave 160 m antenna I am putting up in November.

Suggestions gents?

[pkveazey]

I'm the worlds worst when it comes to disconnecting antennas. I know better, yet unless I hear nearby thunder, I don't unhook antennas. However, If I do happen to unhook an antenna, I ground the tip against something before I hook it back up to a radio. I have actually seen the spark jump to ground when I ground out a PL259 before reconnecting it. Don't do as I do, because I'm an idiot. Disconnect those antennas and ground them before reattaching them. Even just a strong wind can charge up an antenna.

[Jackalope]

  I use the Alpha Delta Communications Delta 4B switch.  However, I also use their Transi-Trap for some feedlines, like the one for my WX satellite antenna.  The Transi-Trap isn't too expensive, and it costs less than radio repairs.  I'm obsessive about disconnecting my antennas after the front end was blown out on an IC-718 that I had.  The video really reinforces my concerns.

[Nemo]

So you touch those and get a cool to watch spark?

Nemo