ATI EMP Surge Protector (F)

$19.95
LAR1F

While nothing can withstand a direct lightning hit, the Grove LAR-1 connects between your antenna cable and radio to prevent induced voltages from nearby lightning strokes, high powered transmitters and other massive energy surges from burning out your equipment (will not prevent AC power line surges).

Not a flimsy spark gap or simple diode shunt, the Grove LAR-1 uses state-of-the-art gas discharge technology, proven in government tests to be the best deterrent against lightning and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) surges.

Responds in one ten-millionth of a second to short-circuit bursts of 250,000 volts and currents of 5000 amps, while allowing normal signal voltages (and even control voltages up toe 50 volts AC or DC) to pass undisturbed! Extremely low signal loss-0.2 dB at 1500 MHz! Ideal for protecting scanners, shortwave receivers, CB and ham equipment, VCR's, satellite systems, and more. May be used with transmitters up to 100 watts.

The tiny protector measures only 3/4"D x 1 1/2"L and comes equipped with standard F connectors.
Select an adaptor from the list below {no extra charge} to accommodate your receiver or scanner.

ADP 2-PL259 Male
ADP 3-N Male
ADP 5-Male 1/8" Mini-plug
ADP 9-BNC Male

Q. I'm inquiring about the ATI EMP Surge Protector. During high winds and nearby thunderstorms my roof antenna (not grounded) causes static zaps up to every 6 seconds at the connector. I can visibly see a spark. I know for sure there has been times where it has been plugged into the radio while the discharges occurred.. :( I'm curious if the ATI Surge Protector will protect me against these static discharges even though I don't ground my antenna. Also, mentioned is the different connector I can request upon the order.. If I order the ADP 9-BNC Male will one end be BNC female for the antenna itself? I want the BNC male end for the scanner itself. Is the LAR basically a grounding block and require its own ground? Thanks for any info Mike

A. The LAR-1 is a metal housing containing a gas-discharge tube connected between the center conductor ant the metal housing. It doesn't have any effect on the signal voltage until it senses an unusually high voltage (approx. 60 volts and higher), then it suddenly ionizes (electrifies) the gas in the tube and conducts the voltage like a short-circuit to the case. It doesn't really have to be connected to earth ground to work properly, because when it short-circuits the pulse, it protects the radio from that pulse ever reaching it. Naturally, an actual lightning strike to the cable will jump right over any arrestor--nothing will endure that--so it's only useful for normal surge exposures like high-power transmitters, nearby lightning strikes, etc. I've had these on my radios for over a decade with lightning hits within 400 feet, and have never had a loss.

The lightning arrestor will protect equipment from these voltage so long as everything is grounded to an actual earth ground (an 8-foot pipe driven into moist soil). The LAR1B would have a BNC on one end for the scanner and a F connector on the other. You can purchase a separate adaptor.

Q. How do you know if they are working and how do you know if they are broke and need replacing?

A. The simple, direct answer is, you don't. It's like an adaptor: It is subject to corrosion, aging, loose fitting, and you really don't know anything is wrong until you become aware of gradual signal degradation, so you replace it and, Holy Cow!, signals get better!

The problem with the lightning arrestor, though, is that you also depend upon its ability from a nearby lightning strike from turning your receiving station into modern art. A general guide would be: Check all connections at least once a year for moisture, corrosion, tight fit. If signals seem to be lower in level, especially if there has been a nearby (a few feet) lightning strike, or if you see electrical burn marks anywhere on or near your antenna system, replace the arrestor. Examine the coax and antenna as well for replacement.