THE EARTH CONNECTION

Radio Record, Volume I, Issue 1, 22 July 1927, Page 14

THE EARTH CONNECTION

vv AN IMPORTANT LINK. An important link in the chain of wireless reception is the earth connection, vet in many cases once contact has been made to a water-pipe it is

decided that the earth is all right and little further consideration is given to the matter. Yet although a water-pipe connection may give excellent results in damp weather, in a dry season it ‘May give poor results on account of the nearness to the surface of the ground in dry earth or even dry sand. It is worth while to get a good earth for all seasons by running a 14’s copper wire from the set the whole distance under the aerial, buried where possible. Near each aerial pole a kerosene tin

snowid be soldered to the wire and sunk several feet to where the earth is always damp. If coke or cinders can be put round or inside the tin it will help to improve matters. In cases where there'is no alternative but to use a water-pipe, do not waste time trying to solder a wire to the pipe, as it is too difficult a process for the average amateur. A simple method of getting a good connection is shown in the accompanying sketch. All that is required is a brass terminal of the pattern shown and a piece of metal drilled to slip loosely over the screw. Then screw the ‘nut on a short way, hold in position as shown, and with a length of clean 18’s wire bind the metal strip to the pipe. Turning the terminal will then tighten the binding wires to give good contact. The pipe must be well cleaned beforehand, especially where the terminal -contacts it. The earth lead to the set is then attached to the terminal in the usual ray. A bad earth has a very detrimental effect upon reception, yet it is very easy to suspect any other part of the circuit when the earth is to blame. Gaspipes should never be used to earth a set, the chief reason being that redleaded joints prevent continuous metallic coirtact. The water-pipe used should be the one entering the house from the street mains.