Lightning/Surge Protection - Redline RDL-3000 User Manual

RDL-3000
1.1.3

Lightning/Surge Protection

WARNING: The information provide in this user manual consists of general
recommendations for installation the system equipment. The wireless equipment must
be installed by a qualified professional installer who is knowledgeable of the
requirements of installing outdoor radio equipment and follows local and national codes
for electrical grounding and safety. Failure to meet safety requirements and/or use of
non-standard practices and procedures may result in personal injury and/or damage to
equipment.
The system must be properly grounded to protect against power surges and
accumulated static electricity. It is the user's responsibility to install this device in
accordance with the local electrical codes: correct installation procedures for grounding
the unit, mast, lead-in wire and discharge unit, location of discharge unit, size of
grounding conductors and connection requirements for grounding electrodes.
All outdoor wireless equipment is susceptible to surge damage from a direct hit or
current induced from a near strike. A direct lightning strike may cause serious damage
even if recommended guidelines are followed. Installing surge protection and following
grounding practices detailed in local and national electrical codes can minimize
equipment damage, service outages, and chance of serious injury.
The major reasons for surge damage can be summarized as:
- Poorly grounded antenna sites
- Improperly installed surge protection equipment
A lighting protection system provides a means by which the energy may enter earth
without passing through and causing damage to parts of a structure. A good grounding
system disperses most of the surge energy from a lightning strike away from the building
and equipment. Improperly grounded connections are a source of noise that can cause
malfunctions in sensitive equipment. The remaining energy on the Ethernet cable shield
and conductors can be directed safely to ground by installing a surge arrestor in series
with the cable. A surge protection system does not prevent lightning strikes, but protects
equipment by providing a low resistance path for the discharge of energy safely to
ground. If you have determined that surge protection is required for your system, the
following general industry practices are provided as a guideline only:
The AC wall outlet ground for the indoor POE adapter should be connected to the
1.
building grounding system.
Install a surge arrestor in series with the Ethernet cable at the point of entry to the
2.
building. The grounding wire should be connected to the same termination point
used for the tower or mast.
Provide direct grounding connections from the RDL-3000, the mounting bracket, and
3.
the antenna to the common building ground bus. Use the grounding screws provided
for terminating the ground wires.
User Manual