How to Connect a UHF Gas Discharge Coaxial Surge Protector

Gas discharge surge protectors are popular among ham radio enthusiasts, protecting the equipment attached to the transmission tower. These small devices incorporate a small gas tube inside a metal chassis that fires when a severe over-voltage condition occurs. The act of the gas firing creates a short circuit between the antenna and equipment, sending the small amount of residual voltage to the ground rod. These convenient units are sacrificial, in most cases requiring replacement after firing.

Things You'll Need

• Gas-discharge surge protector
• Short coaxial cable

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Rotate the coaxial cable from the back of the connected equipment counter clockwise, until it is removed from the gear.

   • 2

     Screw the coaxial feed line into the "In" end of the surge protector. Screw the short piece of coaxial cable into the "Out" leg of the protector.

   • 3

     Screw the other end of the short coax into the "RF In" or "Ant" coaxial threaded input on the electronics.