NEC Article 810 outlines the requirements for the installation and maintenance of radio and television equipment, including antennas. These guidelines ensure the safe and effective installation of such systems. Here is a comprehensive overview of the key sections within this article:
810.1 Scope
This section covers the installation of equipment and wiring for radio and television receiving equipment, excluding equipment and antennas used for coupling carrier current to line conductors.
810.2 Definitions
Defines essential terms related to radio and television equipment, ensuring clarity and consistency in application.
810.6 Antenna Lead-In Surge Protectors
Specifies that antenna lead-in surge protectors must be listed for use and properly bonded or grounded to ensure safety from electrical surges.
810.7 Grounding Devices
Requires grounding devices for antenna systems, ensuring proper grounding to minimize the risk of electrical faults and protect the equipment.
810.12 Secure Supporting
Mandates that outdoor antennas and lead-in conductors must be securely supported to prevent physical damage and ensure longevity. This requirement emphasizes good workmanship and secure installation practices.
810.15 Grounding of Lead-in Conductors
Specifies the requirements for grounding lead-in conductors to prevent electrical hazards. This includes proper connection to a grounding electrode system.
810.16 Size of Wire-Strung Antennas
Outlines the size requirements for wire-strung antennas based on their length and material. This ensures the structural integrity and safety of the antennas.
810.18 Clearances for Receiving Stations
- 810.18(A) Outside of Buildings: Specifies clearance requirements for lead-in conductors attached to buildings, ensuring they do not come into dangerous proximity to power conductors.
- 810.18(B) Indoors: Details clearance requirements for indoor antennas and lead-ins, maintaining safe distances from other wiring systems.
810.20 Antenna Discharge Units
- 810.20(A) Where Required: Requires that each conductor of a lead-in from an outdoor antenna be provided with a listed antenna discharge unit.
- 810.20(B) Location: Specifies the location for antenna discharge units to be as close as practicable to the point where the lead-in conductors enter the building.
810.21 Bonding Conductors and Grounding Electrode Conductors
- 810.21(A) Material: Specifies acceptable materials for bonding and grounding conductors, including copper, aluminum, and copper-clad steel.
- 810.21(B) Size: Specifies the minimum size for bonding and grounding conductors to ensure they can carry fault current safely.
- 810.21(F) Electrode Connections: Details acceptable methods for connecting grounding conductors to electrodes, ensuring a secure and effective ground.
810.52 Size of Antenna and Lead-In Conductors
Provides specific sizing requirements for antenna and lead-in conductors based on the maximum span length and material used. This ensures the conductors are robust enough to withstand environmental conditions.
810.70 Interior Installation Requirements for Transmitting Stations
Specifies clearance requirements for the interior installation of transmitting stations, ensuring that all components are safely installed and maintained.
810.71 Transmitter Enclosures and Bonding
- 810.71(A) Enclosures: Requires transmitters to be enclosed in a metal frame or grill and separated from the operating space by a barrier.
- 810.71(B) Bonding: Mandates bonding of all external metal parts accessible to personnel to the equipment grounding conductor.
- 810.71(C) Interlocks: Requires interlocks on access doors to disconnect all voltages over 350V when any access door is opened.
For more detailed information and specific requirements, consulting the NEC Handbook and additional resources provided by the NFPA is highly recommended. Further insights can be found on resources like The NEC Wiki and Codebook City.