"Eisboch" wrote in message
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"Shortwave Sportfishing" wrote in message
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On Fri, 15 Sep 2006 23:38:23 GMT, Charlie Brown
wrote:

I have a used VHF radio and a used Comrod 4' antenna.

What type of coax cable do I need to buy?

What type connector do I need for the end going into the antenna and
into the radio? The antenna connector attaches straight into the
bottom of the antenna. (Just clarifying that because I don't know if
they are all like that)

Do I need special tools to attach the connectors?

If you don't have experience with attaching or soldering antenna
connectors, what you need is to obtain a length of pre-manufactured
cable RG-58U with PL-259 connectors on either end.

You can find premade, soldered cables at AES or HRO - they are about
$30 or there abouts for 24 feet.

If you really, really want to roll your own, for about the same cost,
West Marine sells RG-58U and the connector kit - trust me, if you have
never done it before, get the premade cable.

I've been soldering RF connectors for 50 years or so and I still screw
one or two up a year.

The Strange one is correct. RG-58U will work also. (If you can find it)
All you really need is a coaxial type lead that is in the 50-70 ohm
characteristic impedance range.

You really want the corrent impedance coax. Check your radio specs, it
probably calls for 50 ohm cable.


Then, you need to get a SWR meter and fine tune your antenna length. But,
I would not bother.

Eisboch