Westflex 103 cable with SMA connector

[RobinB]

I am having problems with my cable going into the RB.

The cable is a westflex with an SMA connector on.

It seems the cable to connector is going open circuit every now and again.

I purchased the cable with connectors on.

Where can I get a suitable replacement connector from ?

thanks

[chewycanes]

Hi
Does your cable have soldered connections ?
How do you know it is going o/c now and again ?

I bought soldered cable from  this guy who was very helpful (In the UK).

http://www.whwestlake.co.uk/

Brian

[RobinB]

Hi Brian

Not sure if its crimped or soldered

I purchased the cable pre assembled, it has heat shrink over the join.

It is flexing on the joint and I loose the reception on RB.

[orkney]

Hello

We also use the Westflex 103 and bought from Henry Westlake at the site mentioned in Brians post above. He is indeed very helpful. We use N-type connectors on the 103 and a sma - N type adaptor which can also be obtained from Henry as well. This has a short length of RG-174 to reduce stress on the connector of the Radarbox.

Andrew

[RobinB]

Does putting the adapter cable on make a notable difference to performance ?

The 103 is very stiff as you know and I do worry about the stress at the back of unit.

[chewycanes]

Hi again
I assume you have an extention cable from the antenna westflex 103 to the sma connector (which is very small) ? .

I  have a small extention cable from an 'N' type to sma which reduces the stress on the small sma connection.

I have seen posts where the pin in the SMA connector gets pushed back an just pulling it back with some pliers makes a good connection.

Have you moved or done any adjustments to the cable ?

Brian

[RobinB]

Hi

No the westflex is terminated directly with sma connector.

The cable has been moved when I have to unscrew the sma connector when I get a nearby storm.
Though I do try to limit movement and has not been pulled or twisted.

Are westlake the manufacture of westflex cable or is the name similarity just a coincidence ?

thanks

Robin..

[orkney]

hello

I think Westlake are at least the designers and main distributor but I am not sure if they manufacture it themselves. We don't appear to have any significant losses from the sma to n converter but we haven't bothered trying anything different since we are pleased with the result.

Here is a link  to the converter on rocket radio with a picture:

www.rocketradio.co.uk/sma-to-n-type-female-adaptor-lead-for-radarbox--sbs-1e-1626-p.asp
Andrew

[chewycanes]

Hi me again.
He makes cables to suit your requirement and is down in the westcountry. I would suspect that if your westflex cable is terminated with the sma it may be your problem and it has put to much strain on the sma connection either on the cable connection or RB box connection.

He will be able to supply you a solder (needs some expertise to do) or crimp connector to terminate your current westflex cable and then also supply a small extension cable to go from say 'n' type to sma. This reduces the strain on the sma connection.

I phoned him when i did not understand the problems with these cables and connectors and he sorted me out.

Brian

[BadWolf]

Robin, a short adapter cable should not make a noticeable difference in performance. The reduction in stress on the SMA connector at the box end would be the preferred method.

[EK01]

Robin,

I would recommend you get a small adaptor cable (also known as a patch lead). from your Westflex into the back of the RB. You don't want to be causing a strain on the back of the RB by continually connecting/disconnecting because of our frequent thunderstorms over here.
There is no difference in performance. I use an RG58 patch lead. Not sure where in Spain you would be able to obtain it. Best to 'Google' and perhaps try from the UK. Delivery costs should be minimal as it is only a small item. If you go to Westlake they should be able to supply one with the correct connector already fitted.

Ian

[anorak]

Hi Robin, I collected my cable from Henry, only about 45 mins away, super chap.
http://www.whwestlake.co.uk/
He made a pigtail for me, probably the way to go.
See you in the bar next time we`re out,  Dave.

[RobinB]

Hi Dave (and other replies).

Sounds like I will have to go down this route.

Got tied up today so not able to call westlake but will try and call him tuesday.

When are you next out Dave ?

thanks

[anorak]

When the Lottery comes up :-(
Just enjoy the weather for us, the cheap booze.......etc

[EK01]

Dave,

Don't know about that. The weather today is lousy !

Ian