Inside the CAMX AM Tower: A Look at the Heart of a Radio Station

🏢The CAMX AM Tower is a 100-year-old radio station that has been on air 24/7. It pumps out 50,000 watts of RF.

🌩️The tower is equipped with lightning protection systems, including ball gaps and insulators, to direct lightning energy away from the tower's components.

🔌The antenna tuning unit (ATU) is an essential component inside the tower, matching the antenna to the feed coming from the transmitter building.

🌪️The tower's ground plane and static drain coil help dissipate static buildup caused by wind and other environmental factors.

🚧Safety measures, such as fencing and grounding straps, are in place to protect technicians working on the tower. Special equipment and procedures ensure safe access and maintenance.

How much power does the CAMX AM Tower deliver?

—The CAMX AM Tower delivers an impressive 50,000 watts of RF, making it a powerful radio station.

What measures are in place to protect the tower from lightning strikes?

—The tower is equipped with lightning protection systems, including ball gaps and insulators, which help direct lightning energy away from the tower's sensitive components.

What is the role of the antenna tuning unit?

—The antenna tuning unit (ATU) is responsible for matching the antenna to the feed coming from the transmitter building, ensuring optimal transmission of the radio signal.

How does the tower handle static buildup?

—The tower has a ground plane and a static drain coil that help dissipate static buildup caused by wind and other environmental factors.

What safety measures are in place for technicians working on the tower?

—To ensure safety, the tower is fenced and equipped with grounding straps. Technicians follow specific equipment and procedures to safely access and maintain the tower.

00:00Introducing the CAMX AM Tower, a 100-year-old radio station.

02:30Discover the tower's lightning protection systems, including ball gaps and insulators.

06:15Learn about the role of the antenna tuning unit (ATU) in matching the antenna to the feed from the transmitter building.

09:45Explore how the tower handles static buildup with its ground plane and static drain coil.

13:20Find out about the safety measures, such as fencing and grounding straps, in place for technicians working on the tower.