[mythtv-users] splitting analog coax

[Simon Hobson]

Stephen Worthington <stephen_agent at jsw.gen.nz> wrote:

> Do use good cable and connectors - there can be serious signal loss if
> you go and get the cheapest nasty stuff.  Here in New Zealand, that
> means using RG6 cable, which is a little stiffer that most people
> like, but low loss and properly shielded.  The more flexible cable is
> usually the bad stuff.

Over here (UK), all reputable advice is to avoid "RG6" as it's not got an official spec - and because there is no spec to certify to, is very often "rubbish".
General advice, again from reputable sources, is to use Webro WF100 or equivalent. WF100 is the foam dielectric version, for internal use there is the air-spaced version (WC100 IIRC). For any outdoor use, avoid air-spaced as water can use it like a hosepipe - I've heard of a few cases of satellite receivers getting water in them via the cables ! Foam dielectric is a bit better at avoiding kinks when bent tightly as well - though we never ever bend the cables too tight do we <SFX: whistles in air>

There's WF65 if you want a smaller cable, though it's got higher losses. It's often use for "Sky" satellite installs in twin "shotgun" form.


> And use F-connectors (the screw type ones)
> where ever possible (eg the splitter).

Indeed. I've almost stopped using "UHF" connectors. Where the equipment has them, I'll often use an F connector on the cable and an adapter - it's not advisable in all cases though since it makes for a long connector and more "leverage" on the socket.