[TowerTalk] [Bulk] Re: SteppIR

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

On 2015-03-01 5:40 AM, Ian White wrote:
> Another major failing is the tacky method of connecting the 13 drive
> wires for the stepper motors - a 10-cent screw terminal block inside
> a short length of plastic pipe. This summer's job is to install a
> waterproof plastic box with a waterproof multipole connector, and I
> would recommend new owners to do that on Day 1.

SteppIR now offer an optional "connector box" ... here's what they
say:

>> OPTIONAL Connector Junction Box: Replaces the standard cylindrical
>> plastic housing; The standard antenna comes with a cylindrical
>> plastic housing (affectionately referred to by many as the “pipe
>> bomb”, due to its looks) with plastic caps on each end.  The
>> control cable wires are connected to terminal strips, which are
>> then placed into the plastic housing.  The connector junction box
>> is a hinged enclosure that has female terminal headers mounted
>> inside.  The control cable and EHU cables are then connected to a
>> male terminal plug, creating a pluggable/unpluggable connection for
>> the antenna wiring.  The connector junction box also includes a 25
>> pin female dsub mounted inside, for testing the antenna at the
>> point of installation.  Highly recommended!

Picture:
http://www.steppir.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/DB42-junction-box.jpg

It is relatively pricey and obviously not for everyone but makes a much
neater and easy to maintain/troubleshoot installation.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV