[BC] RG-8

[tony dinkel]

Agree with the LMR comment.  I am using LMR-400 cable where ever I would spec RG-8 or 213 now.  RG-214 is mandatory for more critical situations that involve flexing or full duplex mode.  And if you think 214 is expensive, try RG-393.  A customer had me replace all of his jumpers in a tx rack not too long ago.  Really expensive and stiff stuff but its double shielded, silver plated everything and teflon dielectric.  Not good for areas with UV exposure though, unless you give it a good 50% overlap wrap with Scotch 88.  Done that too but not for a run to a tower!

td
wb6mie
microwave frequency services 


> If you have the inclination to use a more inexpensive grade cable as 
> compared to Andrew products, you might try looking at the Times Microwave 
> LMR series cables.  They have an overall foil shield (100% coverage) and are 
> very robust for most applications at a much cheaper cost.  The only minor 
> problems is that it is a significantly stiffer cable as compared to RG8 and 
> that it possesses possess a foam internal insulation which is a bit tricky 
> to manage at times if you need to solder the center conductor.  RF 
> Industries makes crimp-style connectors for this cable (again at reasonable 
> prices) but, after attending a RF connector symposium at NIST, I still 
> solder the center conductor contact in lieu of crimping whenever possible.
> 
> But if you want a super high-grade RG8 braided shielded cable, go with 
> RG-214 which has a double silver-plated braid shield and will put you in the 
> poor house before your project is completed.
> 
> Greg
>