Dumb Vhf Question

[TooReel]

Just put a new antenna on the boat (don't ask). Instead of a solder on end this one is the Shakespeare screw on type. Should I use a ohm meter to check to make sure the connection is good? Any idea of about what the reading should be? I used my handheld back up and can talk and receive but that was from a short distance.

[HOTSPOT]

I installed several antennas with the Shakespeare Center Pin Connector and never had any issues. (use Digital Antennas now)

You need a SWR meter to really check the antenna properly. More than likely, a boating buddy may have one.

[165Striper]

An swr meter is a good idea, but at least use your multi-meter to make sure that there isn't a short between the center pin and the outside of the connector (ie - no continuity). I haven't use the screw on connectors, but it is fairly easy to get a stray wire in the wrong place on the solder on types.

[Mist-Rest]

What they both said.

Checking on a dead short should be the first thing you do before putting any power to it.

[TooReel]

Thanks,

No dead short so I think I'm fine. I'll just make sure I do a radio check next time I make it over to the coast.

[skunkedagain]

Thanks,

No dead short so I think I'm fine. I'll just make sure I do a radio check next time I make it over to the coast.

"dead shorts" are common across the center pin and shell on marine antennas. It's part of the matching system (presents a 50 ohm load to the radio) that's a part of the antenna. It doesn't prove anything. A VHF SWR meter (cheap) or an antenna analyzer (expensive) is the only way to check an antenna.

[davepen]

Just put a new antenna on the boat (don't ask). Instead of a solder on end this one is the Shakespeare screw on type.

What does this mean?

If this is a Shakespeare antenna, it likely has a "captive" coaxial cable (permanently attached to the antenna) that terminates with a PL-259 connector (that you, or your installer, installed). This, of course, is connected to the SO-239 connector on the back of the radio.

Most, if not all, marine VHF antennas will read open on a continuity test. As skunked_again pointed out, "dead short" means nothing.

What, exactly, is the problem?

[Sandy]

Davepen- I believe Tooreel was referring to these Centerpin Solderless connectors. http://www.shakespeare-marine.com/connecto...ick=PL-259-CP-G

They are so fast and easy and just as reliable as soldered if dielectric grease is applied to the cable and pins before assembling, then the connector is wrapped with self-amalgamating tape after. Should last forever.

[Parthery]

He may also have been referring to the FME connector which Digital puts on their antennas. The PL-259 screws onto it....

[bluewaterpirate]

He may also have been referring to the FME connector which Digital puts on their antennas. The PL-259 screws onto it....

Here's some pictures of the Digital connector ..... it comes pre installed.