[TowerTalk] RG-6 quality ?

[Bob Nielsen]

On Aug 2, 2007, at 10:09 PM, Dan Zimmerman N3OX wrote:

> What can I expect as far as variation in cable quality at UHF if I buy
> RG-6 at Home Depot or Lowes or Circuit City?
>
> I need a 35-40' run of something with less loss than RG-58 by Saturday
> to play around with a new antenna I built in the UHF contest, and it
> seems like RG-6 could be sufficient (about 1.5dB loss in 35 feet
> according to VK1OD's line calculator).
>
> I wonder if those who have more experience using it know if something
> like 4.3dB/100ft is the best case for a good RG-6, or more like the
> "normal" loss for commodity RG-6, and if it's the former, do you have
> any ideas for local sources for *good* cable?
>
> Thanks and 73,
> Dan
> _______________________________________________

I haven't used RG-6 much for ham applications, but have hundreds of  
feet installed for satellite TV here.  There are several reputable  
brands, such as Belden, Commscope, etc., but a lot of junk also.   
Satellite applications go much higher in frequency than cable TV and  
you might look for cable which has been sweep-tested (often up to 3  
GHz).  Connectors are also important.  I recommend using compression  
connectors, rather than crimp.  These are water-resistant and don't  
deform the cable when making a termination. Thomas & Betts Snap-N- 
Seal is a good brand and have BNC as well as the usual F-type  
connectors.

I found some fairly decent cable (I don't recall the brand) and  
DataShark connectors and compression tool at my local Home Depot.

73, Bob N7XY