Coax an connectors

[Catdriver]

Got a new BC898t scanner and I am going to order a d-130J antenna for the roof. I was thinking about using the Times LMR400 coax also. Since the antenna uses a PL-259 at the antenna end, is it alright to use a bnc end on the radio end of the coax instead of a PL-259 and a adaptor.

In other words, is all of this stuff up to snuff?


Ron

 

[Dubbin]

Since the antenna uses a PL-259 at the antenna end, is it alright to use a bnc end on the radio end of the coax instead of a PL-259 and a adaptor.

That would be the best way to do it.

 

[WA4MJF]

Well, any adapter will create some loss. Might as well put a PL-259 on
the antenna end and a BNC male on the radio end. BTW, you may know that
the 259 is NOT weather proof, so good idea to put some weather seal
on it after attaching to the antenna.

Happy Holidzae!

 

[zz0468]

The loss of a single decent quality adapter is negligible, and you'd never notice it... just so you know.

 

[frankh]

seeing as you haven't ordered it yet, you can order a d-130n with a N connector on the end. Probably a better set up.

 

[Catdriver]

Thanx Guys, I really appreciate it

Ron

 

[kb2vxa]

That's interesting, how do you get a 1/4" BNC on 1/2" coax? (;->) You're better off making up a short jumper of RG-58U having a BNC on one end and PL-259 on the other and a double SO-239 to couple it to the LMR. Stiff cable going directly to the scanner makes things awkward and can damage the scanner by putting too much lateral strain on the antenna connector.

 

[WA4MJF]

There are BNC connectors for lager diameter cables. Just like you
don't put a regular N on a 1" coax, you get one that fits 1" cable.

Happy Holidaze!

 

[n2mdk]

Warren is correct it's better to use a flexible jumper between the heavier more rigid cable and the radio. It makes it easier to position the radio where you want and puts less stress on the scanners connector. The other thing is unless you are expert at attaching loose center pin type connectors, N, BNC, TNC etc. it better to let someone who knows what they are doing actually attach them to the coax.

 

[DPD1]

You can get around the stiffness issue by using a multi strand 'flexi' RG8 size cable. The loss is pretty much the same and then you don't have to deal with a jumper and all that, because it's more flexible than a single strand center conductor.

Dave
www.DPDProductions.com
Antennas & Accessories for the RF Professional & Radio Hobbyist

 

[kd5dga]

You can use a pl259 on LMR400 but it is not the right connector.