Topband: F connectors

[k3hx at verizon.net]

In another life, I installed TV antennas and used 

RG-6 cable and "F" connectors.

1  Use top quality connectors with one-piece             construction.  These have a series of rings about
the shank.

2   Use a "hex crimper" that has a complicated multi-
pivot action.  The simple pliers-type crimpers do
a very poor job.

3   The center conductor of many forms of RG-6 is 
copper plated steel.  If you don't carefully weather-
proof an outside connection, the copper plating will
go away and the steel core will rust.  This process
will go a lot faster if there is DC or AC on the line.
Radio Schlock sells a synthetic grease which makes a
decent water block.

4   The black rubber "boots" often sold with the
connectors are worthless for outside connections as
the UV will eat them. 

5   For outside connections, clean the connection with
91% alcohol and paint it with "Scotchkote 710" which is a foul-smelling sealant.  Available at your local
hardware store.

6   Wrap the connection with "self-almagmating" (also called self-fusing or rubber tape)tape and then with 2 layers of Scotch #33 black tape.

7   Sometimes the copper plating is protected by a
covering of varnish.  Carefully scrape this off and
protect the inside of the connection with the 
synthetic grease as mentioned in step 3.

Channel Master sells a version of RG-6 with a solid

copper center conductor under the "Colorduct" trade 

name.

73

Tim Colbert  K3HX

Shameless plug:

ARCI QRP "Hootowl" contest this Sunday.  2000-2359

your LOCAL time.  Great fun!