Compression RCA connectors

[Solid-State]

Greetings,

I was wonder what other user suggestions would be regarding compression RCA connectors. I would be using them with Belden series 6 coax 1694A and 7915A.

Solid-State

 

[ilnoca]

I recently picked up some Steren plugs on clearance and cannot recommend them: they are longer than most, they don't work with many compression tools and I found them not to make that solid of a connection.

I've heard a lot of good things about F-Conn and Holland. I think I'm going to try the Holland this go round: http://www.hollandelectronics.com/catalog/catalogtemplate/_connectors_adaptors/slcu.html

Whatever brand you choose, make sure they fit you compression tool. Tech Tool Supply has a compatibility chart for all their tools and connectors. I'm using a Paladin Seal-Tite Pro, and it can handle most any RCA and BNC connectors.

 

[Solid-State]

Hi ilnoca,

I have the exact same Paladin Sealtite Pro tool but I find it doesn't provide even compression. I have used it with PCT International DSR-6 F-connectors and the finished crimp shows the uneven pressure due to the nature of the DSR-6 design's sensitivity to even compression. By the way the PCT DSR-6 is by far the best F-connector available and I have much experience terminating RG6 in my VSAT/DVB/structured wiring experience and have used every brand that I know of. From my experience the crimpers based on the lever/plunger design provide the best crimp. The only problem is they are tooled for each specific connector. I believe Leviton has one though based on the design I speak of and is used for the Digicon branded connectors (Leviton's connector OEM it appears). PCT international also have a crimp RCA but no colour coded bands or anything of that nature plus the pin is nickel plated. I know gold plating etc is BS but average customer would perceive it as cheap even though it would be crimped to a piece of bloody 1694A LOL It seems to me the only decent compression RCA I've seen are the Digicons and Permaseal connectors. If anyone knows of others please post info.

Solid-State

PS here is an image of the compression tool design I speak of

Here is an image of the same type of compression tool but with dies. It's a stenciled Leviton brand. I believe it's Digicon's house crimper...

 

[ilnoca]

Solid state, I haven't had an issue with the Seal-Tite making an evenly compressed crimp, but that could be because of the particular connectors I've used with it. If you already have the Paladin tool, you might want to try the Paladin connectors. I haven't seen them online, but the local shop I use for my network cabling supplies carries them.

One thing you might want to do is find a local Paladin dealer and talk to them. They most likely will let you test the different ones they sell if you plan on buying a decent amount. Although these shops cater to contractors, I've never had a problem getting solid advice and service from the few I've dealt with for data and high voltage materials. You might pay a bit more than you would online, but it should still be very reasonable.