Dry blowing snow or high wind can cause quite some voltage build up on a antenna, especially a long one. It is possible to draw quite an arc to ground. There have been reports of high voltage electrocutions from antenna static build up in Short Wave Broadcast stations. A short stick was mandatory for maintenance periods. And yes, I did work at a shortwave station with 500 KW transmitter output.
So receiving antenna wire insulation could have some benefit if the voltage on a bare wire is leaking to a tree limb or across an insulator. Beyond some point all insulators can fail. Indoor antennas do hear static, but I have never seen any evidence of voltage build up. ( The building may provide adequate insulation.) Out of curiosity, has anyone ever really done testing of voltage buildup on a insulated antenna wire, VS a non-insulated wire ? Indoor antennas VS outdoor antennas of equal size? 73 Bruce-K1FZ _______________________________________________ Topband reflector - topband@contesting.com
