UHF antenna cable

the majority of cable around is good quality and major stores like Jaycar DSE are not going to sell rubbish

quality plugs and fitment of plugs is the most important thing

I concur with Robyn. Also, once you've put the end fittings on, use a multimeter to check cable integrity and the fittings themselves. There should be an open circuit between the inner and outer of the plug. If you then short the aerial end of the cable and test again across the plug at the radio end, you should have a short circuit if the cable is good. 90% of problems with poor performance can be traced to simple things like this - caught me out the first time!

Cheers.
Russell S.Russell S
Prado RV6

John,

the best cable to use is anything with a Mil- spec rating. This means Military specification. The cable you will need will be "RG- 58 " which is a 50 ohm cable , in a common size which all standard connectors will be available for. Connectors come in Mil spec as well, but get a bit pricey. Are you doing the install your self ?? as stated above, most cable - from jaycar, DSE, etc, is generally pretty good. The main considerations are the cable run through the engine bay and waterproofing. In the engine bay, try to go opposite side from exhuast manifold, as heat can cause deformation of the innner nylon/teflon di-electric ( the white bit inside the coax!!) usually by following the existing wiring loom, a good path will be found. use cable ties every 200mm and before and after every bend. As for waterproofing, some antenna's come with the cable already terminated, and the connector already fitted. ( a pain in the rear to get through the fire wall!) use plenty of silicon on the antenna end of the co-ax, or " self amalgamating tape" then insulation tape over the top. S/A tape available at electronics shops but not cheap. We used to use it on H.F. base installations in Antarctica, never once saw water get into a connection, when used correctly.

hope this helps,

Jarrod.

There are 2 different RG58 cables as supplied by GME. RG58CU is the cheapy whilst the RG58AU is the low loss cable. However, it only becomes a concern if you are using more than say 10 metres. In a vehicle either would suffice. The price difference is only about $45 per 100 metres. Take your pick!