HFU HF Underground
Technical Topics => Equipment => Topic started by: Matt285 on January 28, 2020, 1808 UTC
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So, I think I can get a 50' piece of LDF4 1/2'' coax for free. I have never terminated coax this large. I know it's not as common to connect PL259's to it because its used more for high gain commercial settings. I did however find some PL-259 connectors for $9.99 each. The catch was that they are solder less. I have always soldered antenna connections and would feel very uneasy about using this type of product. Is it a common thing to use solder less connections for this type of cable since it has so much copper? I must say I have never seen a soldering iron on a cell site.
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Most of the larger coaxial cables are solder free. Getting that much heat into the cable to solder will almost always damage the dielectric and create a VSWR hot spot. The captive connectors are OK as long as you get the right kind from a reputable manufacturer. I like the Andrew (now commscope) connectors and should only run about $20-30 each end.
The instructions come with the connector and they recommend the use of a hacksaw and file. I have found the installation to go much smoother with a dremel tool with a cutoff wheel, then use a file to smooth the edges. I have terminated up to 3" cable using this method, although a portable bandsaw works better on larger cable.
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Most 3''. I'm intimidated by the 1/2'' . Thanks for the advice. The soldering part makes sense.
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Lately I've been aiding some guys doing TV repack work. There, 7 & 8" line is common, all air dielectric. Jacketed flexible line I think is only available up to 4". Above that, its all 'plumbing'.
+-RH