[Test-Equipment] Does it really make a difference over the short haul ????

[Robert Downs]

Besides the difference in center pin diameter, the coax OD's are noticeably different.  For example, RG-58/U is much smaller OD than is RG-59/U. 

Robert Downs


-----Original Message-----
From: test-equipment-bounces at mailman.qth.net [mailto:test-equipment-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bill Weinel
Sent: Thursday, September 3, 2020 09:21
To: Discussion of Electronic Test Equipment; Glenn Little WB4UIV
Subject: Re: [Test-Equipment] Does it really make a difference over the short haul ????

I used Trompter patch panels in my former occupation for routing L-band 
(950Mhz~1500Mhz) as well as HD video for 15+ years and they worked 
great. Some models do have internal termination resistors in circuit 
when no plug is inserted (it depends upon the model... not all have 
them.)  As others have stated, be careful to match the type of BNC 
connectors used with the impedance rating of the patch panel as there 
are differences in the diameter of the center pins (...which can do 
damage to the BNC jacks to the patch panel rear connectors if too large, 
or can cause intermittent connections if too small.) As far as impedance 
differences, at worst using a mismatched connector will cause a slight 
bump in the impedance plot on a VNA. In my experience it usually isn't 
significant.

73 Bill W4WHW