Hello TT'rs,
There has fairly often been comments on TT ref. the down side of outdoor use of
Times LMR-400 UF. The issue is short life. As a cable design engineer, I
have an appreciation for this problem.
The Times catalog/spec sheet indicates a life of up to 10 years. The more
realistic life range, in UV, IMHO and experience, is considerably less than 10
years. The reason for this is their use of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) outer
jacketing. It assists in good flexibility at a sacrifice to life due to UV
degradation.
A not so well known, but excellent, alternative is Belden's 9913F7 (not to
be confused with 9913, the often water in air (hollow) dielectric issue).
9913F7 uses their formulated PVC "Belflex" Tm which is good for 2 - 2.5 or more
times the life of 400 UF.
9913F7's low loss is the same up to 2.8 GHz, and close above that. The
flexibility is the same. The cost is about 8% less than 400 UF (BUT more like
half the cost if you factor in how long 9913F7 will last).
This choice is almost a "no brainer".
I hope this is of some help to you. If any questions, feel free to contact me.
73 and have some great Holidays,
Steve , K1PEK,
DAVIS RF Co., Div. of Orion Wire Co., Inc.
Wire, Cable, RF Connectors and wire aerial parts.
LMR, Heliax, Eupen
Commercial / Military
Custom Cable Design
tel: 978-369-1738 Fax: 978-369-3484
www.DavisRF.com
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