text: Chapter 6
  Section VII. UNUSUAL ENVIRONMENTS
  Climatic variations such as temperature, electricity, humidity, and wind require variations in the ways radios
  and antennas are set up, used, and maintained.
  DESERT OPERATIONS
  6-130. The factors that most affect radios and antennas in the desert are poor electrical grounding,
  temperature and humidity extremes, and wind-blown contaminants.
  ELECTRICITY
  6-131. For the best operation in the desert, locate radio antennas on the highest terrain available. Poor
  electrical grounding in the desert reduces the ranges of whip antennas by one-fifth to one-third. For this
  reason, complete antenna systems such as horizontal dipoles and vertical antennas with adequate
  counterpoises are generally more effective.
  STATIC ELECTRICITY
  6-132. Static electricity is caused by many factors present in the desert, including wind-blown dust
  particles. Also, dry air increases static discharges between charged particles. When operating in fixed
  positions, ground communications equipment properly to prevent such discharges. Tape all sharp edges
  and tips of antennas to reduce wind-caused static discharges and the accompanying noise. Since
  static-caused noise diminishes at higher frequencies, use the highest frequencies authorized for use.
  HEAT
  6-133. Radio sets can overheat and fail, so turn them on only when necessary. Keep air vents and filters
  clean to prevent overheating. High temperature conditions will degrade radio wave propagation. A station
  that can be reached at night may not be reachable during the day.
  MOISTURE
  6-134. In deserts with high humidity, condensation occurs wherever a surface is cooler than the air. To
  keep contacts dry, tape electrical plugs, jacks, and connectors. To prevent arcing, make sure these are dry
  before connecting.
  DUST AND DIRT
  6-135. Wind-blown particles (dust, dirt, sand, and grit) damages everything it contacts. They cause the
  most damage to items with moving or electrical parts, or with vents, grids, or grilles. Because radios with
  servomechanisms are particularly vulnerable, extra cleaning and precautions are required. For example, use
  dustproof covers to protect communications equipment such as HF amplifiers. Regularly check items such
  as receiver-transmitter units that have ventilating ports or channels. Keep these openings clear of dust so
  the equipment remains within operating temperatures. Keep an extra supply of dry batteries on hand,
  because heat drains batteries at a higher rate and produces a higher failure rate. Protect electrical wire
  insulation with tape while it is still intact. Use an old toothbrush or other brush to clean electrical contacts
  and plugs before connecting, then seal the connection with tape. Conduct preventive maintenance checks
  often. Check parts that require lubrication often. Dust and dirt can collect in lubricants and damage
  moving parts.
  JUNGLE OPERATIONS
  6-136. Communications in jungle areas must also be carefully planned. Thick jungle growth vertically
  polarizes RF energy, which reduces transmission ranges. Heat and humidity increase maintenance
  problems. Siting is the most important consideration in the jungle, followed closely by maintenance.