[nrv-hams] Coax patch panels, Are there options in addition to the MFJ 4706/4?

[Cam Coble]

Hey Patrick, sounds like a project!

I couldn't find any ready-made panels like you're describing, but if I
could make some suggestions, here they are.
My assumption for the requirement is that you are wanting multiple (10+)
antenna connections coming into an area that you will want to be able to
connect to multiple end devices. You are also only needing 50 ohm
connections, with 100 watts capacity.

1 - Use more than one of the MFJ panels - You don't have to connect between
only the same panel. Using their panels you can expand this beyond the
limit of 6 inputs/outputs.

2 - Depending on the device count, you can use ports 1-6 and C-F as
connections to the antennas, and reserve ports A-B as two end devices. You
don't have to reserve 1-6 for antennas and A-F for devices.

3 - Have someone build what you need. Patches like this are pretty simple.
Each port is essentially a passthrough SO239 panel connector, mounted in a
hole. A series of holes in a strip of angle aluminum drilled with as many
holes as needed for the connectors, mounted to the wall is pretty simple.
Two opposing strips mounted to the wall with the "patch side" facing each
other would work.

If you want to go to a custom panel as #3 states, I would also consider how
often the connections would be changed. Using BNC connections for the
patching side would allow for really quick changes, and would be more than
adequate for the 100 watts requirement (these mounted on the strips
https://www.amazon.com/BOOBRIE-Female-Coaxial-Connector-Adapter/dp/B07G25RNZ2/
)
Another quick change capability could be the use of antenna switches
between the custom panels instead, just leave some more room between the
strips.

Another "safety" note is that you may want to consider lightening
suppression on the outside of the home before it gets indoors. With so many
antennas, you may wish to invest in a decent demarcation point to put some
arrestors inline before it gets indoors.

Hope that helps!
73!
--
Cam, W4XXV

On Fri, Sep 22, 2023 at 12:50 PM Patrick Johnson <
patrickjohnson1015 at gmail.com> wrote:

> Group,
>
> I will be adding some patch panels to my new ham shack.  When I search
> Ham Radio Outlet, Giga Parts, and Google the MFJ 4706 6-position panel
>  keeps popping up, are there additional options?  In the shack I would
> lik at least 10+ connections to allow for UHF-VHF, HF antennas as well
> as additional equipment such as an over the air antenna,  weather
> sensor, and such.  I have no plans to add an amp so 100W is most
> likely all the power I'll be pushing through. Any local companies
> carry  patch panels?  If so, I'll happily shop them and refer my
> electrician to them as well.
>
> 73s,
> Patrick
> NW8T
> ______________________________________________________________
> nrv-hams mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/nrv-hams
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:nrv-hams at mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>