I have an extra GPS receiver and I would like to mount it on my roof. Is there anything I need to worry about like Lightning?
I would like to run the cable down to an old XP box and record static 24.7.365.
I would put a lightning protector on the coax antenna cable to protect the receiver. You can get them from l-com for about $30. You will probably need to get a pigtail connector to hook it up.
Thanks, that seems to be a reasonable solution.
And then what? Inquiring minds want to know
> I have an extra GPS receiver and I would like to mount it on my roof. Is there anything I need to worry about like Lightning?
>
> I would like to run the cable down to an old XP box and record static 24.7.365.
That is going to be one hellofa file to upload to opus when you get to day 366
I have considered doing the same thing. I found software to control an old Ashtech that would turn it into a CORS station that was reasonably priced. It even does the automated upload to an FTP site.
I was thinking about putting a regular "classic" lightening rod near by GPS antenna but the antenna has electromagnetic field circulating and this field will probably be more delicious to lightening than the higher rod. So it is probably better to put a protection in between receiver and antenna.
But I do not know, and it is hard to find this out experimentally 😉
I just ordered the lightning protectors and they are backordered by 3 weeks 🙁
I did talk with Tia at L-Com who was very helpful. I had trouble finding the TNC version as most coax are in the N-ends. There are adapters, but Tia pointed me in the right direction. She also recommended replacing the gas tubes after all sever thunderstorms as the tubes are rated for 250-300 minor and nearby lightning strikes. A major one could knock out the tube requiring the replacement.
Here's the copy from the order so I know what I did and someone else can find the right part without ordering a pair of adapters.
TNC-Male to TNC-Female Bulkhead 0-3 GHz 90V Lightning Protector 2 $26.95 $53.90
Availability: 12/9/2013
This item is not currently available. 2 are on backorder. (Availability: 3 Weeks)
Item #: AL-TMTFB-9
Replacement 350V Gas Tube for AL Series Coax Protectors 2 $5.95 $11.90
Availability: In Stock
Item #: LPX350
Now I have some time to figure out how to get the wire from outside to inside... and which side of the building to mount the antenna...