Where should a mobile transceiver's power negative connection be made?

The power negative connection for a mobile transceiver should ideally be made at the battery or engine block ground strap to ensure a reliable and effective ground reference. This connection provides the most direct path to the vehicle's ground system, which minimizes potential voltage differences that can arise from other grounding points.

By connecting the negative side directly to the battery or engine block ground, it helps reduce the likelihood of noise and interference that can affect the transceiver's performance. It also ensures that the transceiver has a stable ground reference, which is crucial for proper operation, especially under varying load conditions during mobile operation.

The other options, while they might seem acceptable to some, can introduce issues such as voltage drops or increased noise levels. Grounding to the antenna mount, for instance, may not provide a consistent ground potential, and grounding through the transceiver’s mounting bracket might not establish a strong enough connection to the overall vehicle ground.