[Public-List] What size coax for vhf?

[Robert Kirk]

RG-8X is pretty lossy for a long run. For instance, Uniden specifies, 
"Minimum RG-58 lead-in wire for antenna leads up to 20 feet, RG-8X for 
antenna leads from 20 to 35 feet, or RG-8U for antenna leads from 35 to 60 
feet." I haven't used the RG-213 you mention, but its specs are similar to 
RG-8U so I'd think you can get the cheapest of those two.

Having said that, a simple 3db antenna and almost any well connected lead 
in wire should give you all the signal you need.  There is a greater 
possibility of signal  loss  via poor connections at the antenna or radio. 
You have to be very carful making the crimp connections on the cable 
ends.  A sailboat is an ideal radio station - high masthead antenna 
surrounded by lots of flat water limits your range only to the curvature of 
the earth. You don't need to worry about radio power.

Bob Kirk
Isobar #181

>Anyone know anything about coax & vhf radios? I'm replacing the rotten old
>wire in the mast. RG-8x or RG-213.  Is R-213 overkill for our boats?
>
>I've seen the numbers for signal loss, but it means nothing to me. I keep
>the radio about two feet from the galley bulkhead so i'm estimating 50 feet
>to the top of the mast.

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