atcomsystems.ca/forum Forums Wiring - Telecom Carriers - Trunks & Services Cabling Telephones Systems Wiring Coaxial Cable

Nice!

Would need to go lunchless for a bit of a while though.

The one I used to have was about $2500. That was back in the days of analog and it became a boat anchor. Broke my heart to take it to the scrap yard a couple of years ago, probably got $1 for it. If I was back in that business I would probably get that one that I showed you or something similar.


-Hal

I'm not adverse to splurging here or there for a test set or tool that can come in handy despite my not working in the communications business at this time. It might not be inexpensive, but, it's far less expensive than an Ethernet Certifier.

And more useful. You don't need to certify ethernet for it to work. But you are flying blind when doing cable work without knowing levels and that can definitely affect whether it will work or not.


-Hal

You could get an HST-3000C off Ebay and find an ethernet module for it too. It's probably a generation old, but it should handle anything you throw at it, with enough modules and software unlocks if viavi will still give out codes.

One more log on the fire here....

Different manufacturers tout how good their connectors are (referencing compression connectors). Knowing that signals utilize the center conductor (either copper or copper covered steel) and not necessarily the shield, is there really much of a difference between brands?

Comcast uses PPC cable & connectors.
Verizon uses Digicon/Arris brand connectors. Not sure which coax they currently use. When I had FiOS installed here at the house back in 2007, Verizon's contractor used TFC-T10 coax.

I don't think so. The big difference came from switching to compression from hex crimp. Not only a little better shielding but the ability to be used outdoors without boots and grease. But between compression connector manufacturers I think it's all hype.

The choice to use one over another is probably a decision made because of suppliers and price. I have always used PPC but do have some Digicon. Digicon may be easier to get if you don't do business with CATV suppliers. So I wouldn't worry about it, they are both good as long as you use the proper tools.

-Hal

I had my suspicions that would be the case. I purchased a small supply of both brands of RG6 connectors. That should last me well into the foreseeable future and beyond.

The standard Klein Tools RG6 connectors are not marketed as weatherproof. The company sells a version for outside installations. The problem with it is that it isn't designed to be used with quad shielded cables. Dual and tri shielded fit perfectly.

Before I write-off climbing onto the roof for good, I want to replace the old RG59 feed to my FM antenna with RG6.

I have an external antenna mounted transformer up there already and a spare in the basement. The new cable (including the PPC connector and boot) is ready to go.

TWC/Spectrum has standardized on PPC connectors here for many years.

PPC hardware seems to have become the go to for a portion of the industry. Verizon is bucking the trend. In a way I can understand it. Digicon/Arris supplies set top converter boxes to Verizon for FiOS customers. So, go all in with Arris I suppose.