[ARC5] ARC-5 Cable Connectors question...

[swkb4dmf at windstream.net]

---- John Saxon <johnbsaxon at yahoo.com> wrote: 
> Greetings:
> 
> I am assembling a 40m CW/AM station, using the T-22, R-27 & MD-7.  I have obtained some connectors and am making up my required cables.
> 
> Never having done this before, I am not sure how to connect the cable wires to the connector.
> 
> Specifically, I have a PL-148, 3 conductor 28v input to the MD-7.  There is a cylindrical drop-out that has 3 "cups" (I'll call 'em), labeled appropriately "1", "2", & "3".  Two of the cups have what appears to be old solder in them, #3 is clean.  I don't see with what I have how to mechanically secure the wires to the cups.
> 
> If anyone can tell me what to do now,  I would appreciate it.  If there is a link to an  explanation, or a youtube video, just let me know.
> 
> Cheers,
> John
> K5ENQ

John,
  It depends on which type of plug you have. There are two basic types, the A version or unshielded, and the NON A or shielded type. The A version will have matching holes in the backshell with the same pattern as your "cups" as you called them. 

The NON A versions will have a ferrule attached to the back of the backshell for soldering a shield to similar to a PL-259 coax connector. These were used for a molded cable made specifically for the installation that had the correct number and size conductors. The shield, when soldered to the ferrule secured the cable assembly.

Now for the A version, also sometimes called the loom type. These wires were simply soldered into the cups and held that way. Once both plugs had been installed at each end of the cable, the wires were laced together, usually along with all the other bundles and clamped with cable clamps close to each end and at intervals in between. The lacing and clamping is what supplied the additional securing to the solder joints.

One other note: On the ARC plugs, one socket is always used for ground or common or negative, whichever you prefer to call it. It will always be the one that has the screw through it which also serves to hold the insert in the shell. It bonds that wire to the shell actually. For example, the PL-148 you mentioned. #2 is ground and 1 and 3 were for +28V. Both 1 and 3 weren't always used, but in some cases they were.  

I hope that helps,
Steve
KC4WN
aka kb4dmf