|
|
|
|
Jims RV-8
|
Date: 2-11-2024
|
Number of Hours: 3.20
|
Manual Reference:
|
Brief Description: Right-angle TNC fittings assembly
|
|
The fitting for the GTN-650Xi WAAS antenna is a right-angle TNC fitting. These assemblies are sourced from B and C and are an eight-piece, high-quality, weatherproof fitting. Because the contact pin is soldered, and there are different cut lengths for the braid clamp, bushing, and insulator, I did some test cutting with spare RG-400 to ensure I had the process down before cutting the installed cable. I repeat this is a high-quality assembly, so the difficulties I had with it are likely user-unfamiliarity/user error... that being said... I had a heck of a time with these fittings. In the end, both tested well on the continuity checks, but it took me a long time and many additional restart cuts to get them done. For context, the first took me 2.1 hours, including learning curve time, while the second took 1.1 hours.
The basic assembly is straightforward: slide the clamp nut, washer, and gasket on the cable. Cut the outer cable jacket and slide the braid clamp on the cable over the shielding, which can bunch up as this is a close fit. If there is a shield bunch up, the process starts over with a new cut of the cable. Then, the dielectric is cut to the correct length, not too long or too short, or there will be a gap. Work the braided shield over the braid clamp and trim the excess shielding. Slide on the bushing and insulator, and if it doesn't fit snugly, recut the dielectric to fit. Lastly, cut the stranded center wire and insert the contact pin, ensuring the stranded center does not bunch up. If it bunches, the process starts over with a new cut of the cable, and if not, solder the contact in place.
I had multiple restart cuts on both ends and, at one point, considered going to the straight connectors that I had, but I needed the 90-degree bend at both ends, so I slowly trudged on with eventual success.
|
|
Front connector
|
|
Rear connector
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Copyright © 2001-2024 Matronics. All Rights Reserved.
|
