SUBJECT:  Amateur Radio Shack Designs, part 1 of 5

    Another subject I have promised to write about was Amateur 
Radio Shack Designs, so in good faith, I'll start it here.

    Being one who still hasn't found the perfect radio shack or more 
likely, one who can't afford the perfect radio shack, I have gone 
from a desk in the garage to an air-conditioned 8 X 10 foot walled in 
corner in the garage with everything from a computer to a Ten-Tec 
Closet Kilo-Watt.  I have had several towers and antenna systems here 
at the QTH, but those are another story.

    There are several major items I'll talk about here before I get 
into the details of shack design. These items include electrical 
power, grounding, ergonomics, RF distribution, and DC power 
distribution. 

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                        ELECTRICAL POWER

    One of the major problems in any shack is the electrical power 
capabilities of the shack.  Many Amateurs have overloaded circuits, 
reverse neutrals and hot leads, and worst of all, a stack of 
extention cords running all over the shack.  Hey Vern, call 911, ya 
know what I mean?

    This can cause Hum, frequent breaker popping, fires, and be a 
source for RF suceptability and conducted RFI.

    There are a series of steps to look at when designing or 
refurbing your shack.

    1) Main Breaker Box

       a) How many spare breakers or room for breakers are there 
          available?
       b) How many breakers actually going to the room are shared 
          with other rooms in the house?
       c) Is there a spare 220v breaker or room for one?

    2) Power Required

       a) Considering all your equipment, what would be half the 
          maximum current draw required to power your station?

       b) How many power outlets would be required to service your 
          shack?  Consider the future.

       c) Considering several shack rearrangements, where would the 
          best place be for these outlets and where would the 220v 
          outlets allow maximum access for a linear?
 
    3) Consummed Power

       a) What am I actually using most and would I ever have every 
          rig on using maximum power at any time?

       b) What is my realistic power draw?

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    Now, answer these questions.  If you have an existing shack, 
lay-out the electrical system.  Now you are ready to make the 
electrical design for your shack. Remember, keep it modular, keep
it versatile, and keep in mind the future. For an example, I'll show
you what my room looks like:

    continued next posting.......


-WS