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CHAPTER FOUR: T
Tools
The majority of the tools and equipment you will need
for most installations are apparent. The following is a
list of useful tools and miscellaneous materials that
might also come in handy.
1. A complete set of nut drivers (spin-tights).
2. A set of ratchets and sockets.
3. A pocket compass, for orienting the antenna and
setting up the rotor when the compass bearing(s)
of the transmitter tower(s) is known.
4. A drill brace with a wide assortment of bits.
5. A good quality leather tool belt.
6. A crimping tool for fastening coaxial connectors.
7. Caulking compound for sealing the holes where
transmission line enters the house.
8. Roofing tar (plastic roof cement), for sealing
around screws on the roof.
9. Silicone grease for waterproofing coaxial cable
connectors.
10. A sledge hammer for driving in ground rods.
11. A level or plumb bob for ensuring that the
antenna mast is installed perpendicularly.
12. A map to aid antenna orientation. (Aircraft maps
are ideal. Most airports sell them.)
13. A strong step ladder (in addition to extension
ladders).
14. A magnetic stud finder.
15. A small, portable TV that operates on both stan-
dard house current (117 volts AC) and batteries.
Masts
Most antenna hardware catalogs list a wide variety of
mounts and masts. Most however, are variations of a
few basic types. By taking into account signal
strength and ease of installation, it's not difficult
deciding which site, mount, and hardware to use.
A mast (Figure 4-1) is used in every installation. The
mast is the vertical tubing that supports the antenna.
Conventional masts are available in 5 and 10 foot
lengths. Telescoping mast units (Figure 4-2) are
available in 20, 30, 40 and 50 foot lengths. Each type
is available in various wall thicknesses that provide
different degrees of strength and rigidity. Your choice
will depend on the height, weight, and size of the
antenna being installed and also on wind conditions
in the area.
T
M
OOLS,
ASTS &
8
OOLS,
HA
R
RDWARE
EQUIREMENTS
M
H
ASTS &
ARDWARE
Fig. 4-1. Examples of 5 and 10
foot mast sections.
Both conventional and telescoping masts are available
in galvanized steel and in high-tensile, acrylic-coated
steel. Acrylic-coated masts are preferable because of
their greater strength and durability.
R
EQUIREMENTS
Fig. 4-2. A telescoping mast.
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