[TowerTalk] Compression-type PL-259s

[Paul Christensen]

> That is the old type. The newest type is here;

These look like the "Holy Grail" of UHF connectors.  After a bit of 
searching, RF Industries makes a comparable model, available for us folk on 
this side of the ocean:

http://tinyurl.com/4zn9ayf

Available in the U.S. for USD $5.63 ea. at Tessco if you've got a gold 
account.  Otherwise, prices seem to range between USD $7-$10 from other 
sources in the U.S.

I find it interesting that unlike a typical "N" compression fitting, the 
braid is not soldered onto the "clamp" at Step #2.  Perhaps it can be 
soldered at the user's option?  Take a look at the step-by-step assembly:

http://tinyurl.com/45gryqy

Despite the added cost and extra hardware, these connectors offer something 
that the standard PL-259 does not:  The ability to inspect your work before 
and after the cable is fitted into the connector body (but before the pin is 
crimped and/or soldered).  When using RG-8/213/LMR400 into a standard 
PL-259, once the braid is soldered to the body, work cannot be inspected, 
nor can the cable be extracted back from the connector body before final 
assembly at the pin.

I will definitely try these on my next outdoor project.

Paul, W9AC