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0 pointsamingilani6y ago0 comments

I used it to monitor ADSL device status[0], also created a DIY timecapsule for MacOS[1] — these were all in the past, though.

Currently the Pi is on my roof, connected to an SDR. I sometimes run rtl_server on it, and listen around. Although it's been a hassle, since I have to run upstairs and disconnect it everytime there's a storm. Also, listening to the device over WiFi means I get really laggy control over my SDR. I'm planning on replacing the Pi with something better powered.

[0]: https://github.com/amingilani/scruffy

[1]: https://github.com/amingilani/chronopill

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valent1ne6y ago

You could probably automate cutting the power with a relay switch also connected to the pi. Just scrape weather data, and if you expect the storm, trigger the switch.

amingilaniOP6y ago

I'm actually more concerned about lightning strikes hitting the antenna, frying the Pi, traveling down the Ethernet cable and frying my router. I'm still a ham in training but I've been told that it's best practice to disconnect the antenna and isolate it from your setup. Some hams as far as placing their connectors in glass jars.

I don't want to use a relay on the antenna cable because 1) it'll pick up RF interference, and 2) if a direct strike hits it, there'll be enough energy to jump the gap in the relay anyways.

I might figure out a more permanent solid-state solution in the future though. Like I said, still learning :)

wrycoder6y ago

Ground the antenna.

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