Mil-spec RG-213 (not bogus RG 213 type cables) are well suited for this application. The losses are not significant for what is, for practical purposes, a line of sight application. The jacket is well suited for resistance to ocean salts and UV. It's available at reasonable cost. What surprises me is the deafening silence on this thread about an equally important aspect of this project - the connectors. I spent four decades at sea wrestling with this stuff and cable failures were rare compared to connector contamination that ultimately produced cable failure including one incident that actually dribbled water into a radio. The mistake is to attempt to waterproof a non-water proof connector like the PL-259. It's ultimately an exercise in futility in seagoing conditions. The only connector series I would use for this application are Type N connectors. The antenna should also have a Type N termination to avoid the requirement for a inter-series adapter which is not waterproof. If the transceiver is in a weather protected spot, the PL-259 series would suffice for the transceiver connection, but the silver plated version of this connector would be a better choice than the common nickel plated version. K7IJ In a message dated 11/24/2009 8:20:43 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, [email protected] writes:
I have been in a big discussion with the guys on my boat list about the right coax for running up the mast for VHF marine radio. Keeping in mind that we are talking about a 70’ or so run going up the center of an aluminum mast, in a salt water environment, and the radio is limited to 25 watts. Also keep in mind that when off shore this is a life line and the best possible send and receive is needed in an emergency situation. So given the criteria what is the best possible coax to use knowing that thickness matters and bend radiuses may be tight? Others on the list are saying “just grab any old 8X type cable and you will be fine”. I say use something with very low loss and suggested small heliax. Any suggestions? Vern s/v Nirvelli KI4ONW
