HAM Tech Thread

[Somebodyelse5]

@2ruble I mounted my antenna using one of the Diamond antenna mount kits (like this one Diamond Antenna K400S Diamond Antenna K400 Series Trunk and Hatchback Mounts | DX Engineering - https://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dmn-k400s), that comes with a much thinner coax cable (RG-316) and connector (SMA). I was able to route the cable through the rubber boot in the top drivers side corner. Then I but a block of siliconcarne for good measure.

The Diamond kits come with an SMA to PL259 connector adapter so that you can plug into the back of the radio.

 

[2ruble]

@2ruble I mounted my antenna using one of the Diamond antenna mount kits (like this one Diamond Antenna K400S Diamond Antenna K400 Series Trunk and Hatchback Mounts | DX Engineering - https://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dmn-k400s), that comes with a much thinner coax cable (RG-316) and connector (SMA). I was able to route the cable through the rubber boot in the top drivers side corner. Then I but a block of siliconcarne for good measure.

The Diamond kits come with an SMA to PL259 connector adapter so that you can plug into the back of the radio.

Thanks! I was hoping for something like this, but obviously just trying to run the pre-built 18 footer I got from ham radio outlet locally (Atlanta). And that connector and cable doesn't want to route/fit through that boot.

Is there any concern of loss/interference with this connector? Or even just replacing my existing coax with this one? it seems considerably smaller in diameter.

I'd honestly like to just buy the connector; in a much shorter length. Or, replace my entire cable if this is a viable option. Although, if I do eventually upgrade to a BFO one or something, I think those cables are integrated into the antenna; I can't remember.

I fabricated my own antenna mount, since nobody really has one anymore it seems

EDIT/UPDATE: I'm still very new to all this. I just think about the consideration of different gauged electrical wires being able to carry different loads. The HRO cable I bought already is about 1/4" thick and I'm not really comfortable trying to fit that between the body and hatch. But, something like you listed, if I could just run that straight from the antenna all the way to the mobile unit... if it there's really no difference in reception with those cables... then why get/is the larger available? lol

 

[Somebodyelse5]

@TheGrrrrr just saw you on blackbear on APRS: