Hi, folks.

I would like any suggestions anyone might have for a reasonably good RF 
ground in my ham room at the new Colorado home QTH.  The room is on the main 
floor of the ranch house, but I don't know of a nearby water pipe or 
something like that to hook onto.  We have forced hot air heat, bbut I don't 
know if the nearest heating vent has something I could latch onto either. 
When the guys from the local club put up my DXCC and my Diamond X200A, we 
discussed the grounding issue, and they really downplayed the need for an 
earth or RF ground out here.  They said the soil is just not conducive to 
it, and since it's always so dry, it's really hard to find true ground.  So, 
at this point, I am groundless.

I have two reasons for getting more serious about an RF ground in addition 
to protecting against possible lightning strikes:

1.  I have discovered that I might have some RF getting back into my TW1 
talking watt meter, since when I take SWR and power readings at 100 watts 
with my TS480, the meter sometimes acts a bit flaky when I adjust the volume 
control.  Doesn't do it normally, just when 100 watts are applied.


and

2.  I have a lot of details to work out yet, but I'm starting to think about 
purchasing a small amp for my HF set-up--possibly something like a Heath Kit 
SB200.  I would think that a good RF ground would be essential when using an 
amp like that.
Would appreciate any suggestions you guys have, and thanks as always for 
your help.

73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ, Louisville, CO