[Elecraft] KAT500 ANT 1 Problem

[Bob McGraw]

I realized some 50 years ago that all connectors are not created equal.  
There are good connectors and "good looking" connectors. Since we 
primarily intend to use the connectors and not "look" at them, then one 
should be aware of differences.    If the connector does not have the 
company name or MIL number on it, then it is most likely only a "good 
looking" connector or counterfeit knock-off.   In fact, regarding some 
of the ham fest connectors, I'd  be ashamed to put a company name on 
them too.    Be aware of no name connectors.

Amphenol has been a leader in quality connectors for RF.   Cannon and 
Neutric are good for audio brands.  There's others but be aware there 
are many counterfeit connectors in the market place. Bargain connectors 
generally turn out to be NO BARGAIN because they cause issues, now or 
later.   You've spent several thousand dollars on your station and you 
are going to trust its operation to a $1 connector?  That is false economy.

Also, when soldering the center pin on a PL-259, do NOT let solder build 
up on the outside of the male pin.  It will expand the center contact 
when inserted into the SO-239 and problems will abound.

73

Bob, K4TAX


On 7/12/2021 10:24 AM, elecraft-request at mailman.qth.net wrote:
> -----Original Message-----
> From:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net  <elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net>  On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm
> Sent: Sunday, July 11, 2021 17:07
> To:elecraft at mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KAT500 ANT1 problem
>
> And discard those "Amazon Special" PL-259s. Use only quality connectors.  It is not worth it to use off-spec connectors - you are witness to the pain and heartache they can cause.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 7/11/2021 4:52 PM, Dave wrote:
>> If it were me, I'd replace the SO-239 on the tuner...  That way, you
>> know the issue won't come back to haunt you later.
>>
>> 73, and thanks,
>> Dave (NK7Z)
>> https://www.nk7z.net
>> ARRL Volunteer Examiner
>> ARRL Technical Specialist, RFI