User's Manual

RDL-3000 User Manual

1.1.3 Lightning Protection

WARNING: This user manual provides notes are general recommendations for the

system. The Model RDL-3000 and its antenna must be installed by a qualified

professional installer who is knowledgeable of and follows local and national codes for

electrical grounding and safety, and is knowledgeable of and follows the local and

regional regulatory RF requirements. Failure to meet safety requirements and/or use of

non-standard practices and procedures could result in personal injury and damage to

equipment.

All outdoor wireless equipment is susceptible to lightning damage from a direct hit or

induced current from a near strike. A direct lightning strike may cause serious damage

even if these guidelines are followed. Lightning protection and grounding practices in

local and national electrical codes serve to minimize equipment damage, Service

outages, and serious injury. Reasons for lightning damage are summarized as:

- Poorly grounded antenna sites that can conduct high lightning strike energy into

equipment.

- Lack of properly installed lightning protection equipment can cause equipment

failures from lightning induced currents.

A lighting protection system provides a means by which the energy may enter earth

without passing through and damaging parts of a structure. A lightning protection system

does not prevent lightning from striking; it provides a means for preventing damage to

equipment by providing a low resistance path for the discharge of energy to travel safely

to ground. Improperly grounded connections are also a source of noise that can cause

sensitive equipment to malfunction.

A good grounding system disperses most of the surge energy from a lightning strike

away from the building and equipment. The remaining energy on the Ethernet cable

shield and conductors can be directed safely to ground by installing a lightning arrestor

in series with the cable.

If you have determined that it is appropriate to install lightning protection for your system,

the following general industry practices are provided as a guideline only:

1. The AC wall outlet ground for the indoor POE adapter should be connected to the

building grounding system.

2. Install a lightning arrestor in series with the Ethernet cable at the point of entry to the

building. The grounding wire should be connected to the same termination point

used for the tower or mast.

3. Provide direct grounding connections from the RDL-3000, the mounting bracket, the

antenna, and the Ethernet cable surge protection to the common building ground

bus. Use the grounding screws provided for terminating the ground wires.