SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-tower-ground-wire

How should tower ground-wire connections be installed for lightning protection?

Keep the connections short and direct.

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  1. Short and direct ✔
  2. With right-angle bends
  3. With a drip loop

Why: A short, direct conductor provides a better path for lightning current. Extra length and sharp turns add unwanted impedance.

Huh, didn't know that: Lightning protection paths should head toward ground without unnecessary detours.

The dad joke
The ground wire took the direct route because lightning hates sightseeing.
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References

Answer: Short and direct. A short, direct conductor provides a better path for lightning current. Extra length and sharp turns add unwanted impedance.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool www.ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    C. Ensure that connections are short and direct
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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