Crimp connectors work just fine when done properly, but I would not use
them on anything above 2M. You will find the compression type fittings
for larger coax and heliax superior to anything else for microwave work.

But most will probably suggest generally a good soldered connector the
best for most apps.

If you have the money, the best iron for soldering coax connectors
would be one such as made by American Beauty..... but very pricey. A hefty
Weller gun will suffice if funds are limited.


Ed K7AAT

Ed wrote:

Crimp connectors work just fine when done properly, but I would not use
them on anything above 2M.

Then why is it that Times Microwave only shows how to put on crimp and
clamp connectors on their cables on their web site. On their larger
cables (LMR 900 and up) they only have clamp connectors.


You will find the compression type fittings
for larger coax and heliax superior to anything else for microwave work.


Like I already mentioned, I think that is all you can put on the LMR 900
and up size coax.

But most will probably suggest generally a good soldered connector the
best for most apps.

If you have the money, the best iron for soldering coax connectors
would be one such as made by American Beauty..... but very pricey.


I found an 150 watt one for $115, that doesn't seem too bad to me if it
is that much better than others.

http://www.hmcelectronics.com/cgi-bi...duct/0400-0027

One thing I forgot to mention in my first post, where you have to use a
UHF, it seems that for LMR 400, the only option is solder, I could be
looking in the wrong places, but I haven't seen any crimp or clamp on
UHF connectors for LMR 400 only solder. About the only time I plan on
using anything smaller than LMR 400 is for a jumper to hook my hand held
to the big antenna, for that I am going to get some LMR 240 ultra flex.

--
Chris W
KE5GIX

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Crimp connectors work just fine when done properly, but I would not
use them on anything above 2M.

Then why is it that Times Microwave only shows how to put on crimp and
clamp connectors on their cables on their web site. On their larger
cables (LMR 900 and up) they only have clamp connectors.

In all honesty, I don't have any real experience on most Times'
Cables..... mostly with Belden and Alpha products, so can't be sure what
connectors Times recommends for their larger RF cables.


If you have the money, the best iron for soldering coax connectors
would be one such as made by American Beauty..... but very pricey.


I found an 150 watt one for $115, that doesn't seem too bad to me if
it is that much better than others.

I think most experienced technicians would agree that the large mass
of the heating element on the American Beauty allows for a better and
quicker solder job, with much less risk of damaging the cable. If you
don't mind spending that money, I'd recommend the one you linked to. I
have one similar to it, and no regrets.


Ed K7AAT