🚀 go-pugleaf

rubin@skiing.cis.ohio-state.edu (Daniel Rubin) writes:
> I recently installed a rooftop television antenna.  I grounded the mask as
> was recommended in the instruction and I got to thinking.  Why is it a good
> idea to ground the antenna?  I would think that this would invite lighting
> to stike the mask!  I mean the mask is definitely the tallest point with the
> lowest resistance.  Wouldn't this be inviting trouble.  I would think a
> lightining strike would fry the grounding wire which is next to the house.
> This seems like a fire hazard not to mention the jolt to the TV tuner etc...
> Wouldn't you want to deter lighting instead of providing a ideal path for it?

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Lightning rods are grounded, too, but it isn't to attract lightning.  It's
to dissipate any localized charge thay may build up, forcing it back to
the same potential as the whole area.  This deters lightning, or at least
lowers the chances of a hit to the same as any other point nearby.

(I'm guessing you meant MAST, the pole/tower that holds the antenna up.
Otherwise, this answer may not be what you're after.)