Brian Kelly wrote:
I'd like to build a compact antenna/100W rig patch panel instead
getting involved with big expensive coax switches. Could be done
nicely with BNC connectors & RG-58. Does anybody have a link to a site
which provides freq (160M-440) vs. power handling ratings for BNC
connectors?

I don't know about a website, but it has often been discussed here. Try
searching through
http://groups.google.com/advanced_group_search

It all comes down to the RF current through the center connection. This
is partly about skin effect and surface conductivity, but equally
important - and less predictable - is accurate assembly of the center
pins.

If at all possible, use connectors with captive center pins. This
removes the biggest source of inaccuracy in amateur assembly.

All the contact pressure in a BNC derives from the rubber washer inside
the bayonet ring. A good BNC should need quite a hard twist to make the
bayonet click into place... and in old surplus plugs, this springiness
does wear out.

Bottom line: BNCs in good condition are fine for 100W at 440MHz, so
they're good for that power level at any lower frequency too.


--
73 from Ian G3SEK 'In Practice' columnist for RadCom (RSGB)
Editor, 'The VHF/UHF DX Book'
http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek