User's Manual

FT-950
Operating Manual
Vertex Standard Co., Ltd.
12
into the ground. If multiple ground rods are used, they should be positioned in a “V”
configuration, and bonded together at the apex of the “V” which is nearest the station
location. Use a heavy, braided cable (such as the discarded shield from type RG-213
coaxial cable) and strong cable clamps to secure the braided cable(s) to the ground rods.
Be sure to weatherproof the connections to ensure many years of reliable service. Use
the same type of heavy, braided cable for the connections to the station ground bus
(described below).
Inside the station, a common ground bus consisting of a copper pipe of at least 25 mm
(1”) diameter should be used. An alternative station ground bus may consist of a wide
copper plate (single-sided circuit board material is ideal) secured to the bottom of the
operating desk. Grounding connections from individual devices such as transceivers,
power supplies, and data communications devices (TNCs, etc.) should be made directly
to the ground bus using a heavy, braided cable.
Do not make ground connections from one electrical device to another, and thence to
the ground bus. This so-called “Daisy-Chain” grounding technique may nullify any
attempt at effective radio frequency grounding. See the drawing below for examples of
proper grounding techniques.
Inspect the ground system--inside the station as well as outside--on a regular basis so
as to ensure maximum performance and safety.
Besides following the above guidelines carefully, note that household or industrial gas
lines must never be used in an attempt to establish an electrical ground. Cold water
pipes may, in some instances, help in the grounding effort, but gas lines represent a
significant explosion hazard, and must never be used.
Connection of Antenna and Power Cables
Please follow the outline in the illustration regarding the proper connection of antenna
coaxial cables, as well as the DC power cable.
Use a short, thick, braided cable to connect your station equipment to the buried
ground rod (or alternative earth ground system).
Advice:
 Do not position this apparatus in a location with direct exposure to sunshine.
 Do not position this apparatus in a location exposed to dust and/or high humidity.
 Ensure adequate ventilation around this apparatus, so as to prevent heat build-up
and possible reduction of performance due to high heat.