I started using Crimp connectors a few years ago and now that I have figured
out how to properly prepare and crimp them, I think they are good. I'm
responding to the compression connectors thread which I assume is the same
as crimp connector.
Be careful about trusting those slick little cable prep tools sold by many
cable/connector companies. They caused me a lot of problems and cost me lots
of $$ and problems on the tower.
Rather than pick on a particular vendor here is what I found as I waded into
the crimp connector cut over here at K6EL station.
. Even with quality connectors you must verify that the center and
shield exposed will properly crimp to the connector.I know, "DUH" but it was
easy to get lulled into the belief that the $40 slick little stripper solved
that problem.
o I now have gone back to stripping with 40lb monofilament fishing line
and carefully measuring the cuts.
. My bad experiences have led me to solder the center
conductor.PERIOD. It's too simple and easy to validate.
. I expose enough braid to spill out of the crimp collar and then
trim it before I apply the compression/crimp. ALL of my problems can be
traced to an inadequate amount of shield under the crimp collar.
. If you solder the center conductor it's pretty easy to adjust the
length.just pay close attention to the ratio of the lengths of the two as
it's easy, at least for me to get that wrong and waste a connector.
As for WX proofing.I treat Crimps exactly like I treat conventional N or
UHF. I assume none of them are water proof so I make them so that they are
in my relatively dry climate. I really have grown to like the Silicone self
bonding type tape because it is so easy to open up when I need to inspect,
service or modify the connection.
Crimps are great time savers and IMHO, they are as good as the old school
solder types but you need to develop a system that works for you and not
violate the rules trying to shave some time off your connector
installations. Of course, YMMV but this is what I've paid the price to learn
about them. I LOVE them.now.
73, Jon
K6EL
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