Groundplanes

Underground Power
Why antenna grounding is important, how it works and is installed.

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Assuring a Strong Signal
Every agency that has invested in an Information Radio Station wants a signal with suitable strength to achieve the FCC ‘s maximum permitted signal coverage. The level of AM signal an antenna system can generate is related to many factors, and one of the most important is the antenna’s counterpoise (grounding) and how it is designed and installed. The vertical “whip” portion of the antenna and the ground portion beneath together are responsible for the generation of the station's signal. In general, the more robust the grounding, the more efficient the antenna system and the stronger the resulting signal.
Horizontal Antenna Grounding	Vertical Antenna Grounding	Limited-Area Grounding
FlexPlane Preassembled Groundplane The FlexPlane is a pre-built groundplane composed of 32 insulated, bonded copper radial wires. Each radial extends outward 10 feet or more in every direction, creating a circular fan pattern. This horizontal, circular arrangement is the most efficient means of antenna grounding, producing the most signal range, watt for watt. The groundplane is installed with its center directly beneath the vertical antenna and may be buried in the ground or installed on the surface of the ground or roof. Also available in 25 foot radius and custom sizes, the FlexPlane comprises the most efficient AM grounding method available. High-flexibility versions can be deployed on the surface of the ground or a flat roof as part of portable / temporary antenna systems. Contact us for assistance. See technical specifications.	Vertical Profile Antenna Support and Grounding System A most cost effective and least intrusive antenna grounding method is afforded by the Vertical Profile Antenna Support and Grounding System. The active element is comprised of a cylindrical copper sheath attached to the buried portion of the aluminum antenna support pole. The conductive pole and sheath, together create an effective, compact grounding method. Installation costs are reduced, compared to horizontal grounding methods, because the pole and the grounding are one piece. Utilize this method when there is not enough physical room for a horizontal groundplane and when conventional signal levels are required. See technical specifications.	Unirod Unirods provide an alternate means of grounding, and are useful in limited-area situations where conventional signal levels are adequate and the antenna is to be mounted on a tower, pole or other similar structure. The Unirod is a 10’ – 2” copper rod which is installed vertically into a core of highly conductive bentonite soil (provided). See technical specifications.