BNC extension cable

[capthawg]

I would like to get my antenna closer to my balcony. Would a 25 foot BNC extension cable made for CCTV work with my BCD536HP scanner and antenna?
Thanks

 

[mmckenna]

Yes.
I'll point out, since someone else will bring it up, that composite video cable like that is probably 75Ω impedance. There may be a very slight additional loss compared to using 50Ω impedance cable, but without some fancy test equipment, you'll never notice.

If the cable is good and it does what you need, go for it.

 

[Hit_Factor]

Does the scanner receive better when it's closer to the balcony?

I would probably buy a scanner antenna with 25 feet of cable instead of extending what I presume to be the OEM antenna.

 

[capthawg]

Does the scanner receive better when it's closer to the balcony?

I would probably buy a scanner antenna with 25 feet of cable instead of extending what I presume to be the OEM antenna.

The antenna is a magnetic mount vhf/uhf. The antenna cable is nine feet. My apartment has concrete walls so I need the extra cable to get the antenna on the balcony. I can’t move the radio closer

 

[Hit_Factor]

If you already gave the cable give it a go. It won't hurt anything.

As for moving closer, I meant just temporarily, to see if your current reception improves. I wouldn't buy a cable, until I had a pretty good idea it was going to help. If you don't have the cable and need to buy it, get one with 50 ohm impedance.

 

[n5ims]

Just be aware that the 75 ohm BNC connectors are a bit different than the 50 ohm ones and while you can force them you may cause issues. My advice if you still use them it to use adapters so if there is any damage it's only to what can easily be replaced. I use a 90 degree adapter on the scanner end that not only is easy to replace, but also will reduce the stress on the radio connector.