[Boatanchors] bulkhead panel?

[Eugene Hertz]

Hello all,

I am looking to make a 1U panel for my rack. The panel will have 8 holes drilled to accommodate 8 SO-239 bulkhead connectors. The idea here is to have antenna feedlines come into this bulkhead where the shields can all tie together.

Question is:  Can anyone confirm that if I drill a hole 0.625" in diameter that will suffice for common so-239 threaded bulkhead (barrel) connectors?  Also, I was going to make the panel out of aluminum. Should I get it anodized? Whats the difference? Oxidation? This will live in my shack.  Cost difference is something like $2.

Also, in case I want to have some of the holes drilled for "N" bulkheads (haven't decided) does anyone know what the right diameter would be?

thanks!
Eugene