darinh
Joined: 20 Apr 2006
Posts: 327
Location: Utah
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 Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2008 10:16 am Post subject: Grounding of com antenna on Tube and Fabric airframe |
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I have a Kitfox 7 that I just had inspected (I have 1 hour on it so far) and am having issues with my transmission and reception quality and effectiveness. Here is a brief description of my problem:
When at the airport (taxing, and in the pattern) my radio seems to work fine with the exception of an intermittent static blip every two seconds or so. As I get farther out, the intermittent blip becomes more pronounced to the point that my transmission and reception is horrible (transmission is worse than reception though by a long shot). Basically, my communications become unintelligible around 4-5 miles out. I originally didn't have a ground plane other than the mounting plate for the antenna (which the manual says is fine) so I added one on the advice of a couple people and the problem has not changed a bit.
Here is a question: Does the antenna itself have to be electrically bonded to the airframe? I think the answer is yes and according to the maker of my antenna, mine is through the mounting hardware. However, the builder's manual says to remove any fabric and grind down the powder coating under the antenna to get a good bond. Would this be my problem? Would the issues I have described be symptomatic of a poorly grounded antenna? I know just enough about electronics to be dangerous so any help and advice would be greatly appreciated.
I guess I should state that I have checked my antenna cable for continuity and it all checks out and the shielding is completely isolated. Also, my radio is clear of all other noise such as engine, alternator, etc.
Thanks for the help.
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_________________
Darin Hawkes
Series 7
914 Turbo
Kaysville, Utah |
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