Multiple Through-Deck Fittings, Power, Ethernet, VHF

[estopa]

Hi folks, hope the winter is keeping you guys busy.

I wanted to begin some research on putting a multiple through deck fitting to handle a power cable, ethernet cable, and vhf coax cable.

Right now I have one fitting for mast light. I wanted to replace it so I can run the power, ethernet and vhf coax cable. Of course it will have to also accept connectors so I can disconnect when removing the mast.

Any ideas?

 

[estopa]

Maybe something like this -
http://www.newmarpower.com/PDF-Catalog-Spec-Sheets/Antenna-Cable-Accessories.pdf

 

[estopa]

Or something like this

http://www.driplug.com/products.html

[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Particularly suitable for all your masthead needs. Having a 5mm 'N' type VHF connector and gland, to take cable dia 5mm. (RG58/URM43), also 3 separate glands to take 3 electric cables up to 9mm dia (0.35in) for connection to 9 contacts, each rated at 10 amps continuous up to 50 Volts. Enabling the VHF aerial, tri-colour, Anchor, steaming and deck flood light, all to be connected in on neat robust unit to save space and reduce the number of holes required in the deck by 12 or more. [/FONT]

 

[bellnier]

Hi George, I'm going to be interested to see what comments you get. I need to do the same thing this spring. I'm adding a mast head & Windex lights to the existing steaming lamp and adding a VHF antenna. I don't want any Aluminum parts because of the salt water environment.
John

 

[estopa]

Yeah I am wondering what the experience is between the glands (1st option) and the quick disconnect (2nd option).

I am leaning toward the 1st option, because its cheaper, and easier to install since I am just passing through the wires to the radio or battery.

Second option would be nice as a quick release when I need to step the mast. But realistically I will only do this once in spring and second in fall to put away. Also the downside is maybe loss of signal with connectors and more work to create the initial connections.

 

[RichBone]

I'd go with the connections between the deck and the mast. plugs for electrical and connectors for the coax. The problem I had with the connectors was installing them on the ends of the coax. I went with RG-8/U coax for less loss of signal and PL-259 connectors. I bought plenty of extras to practice soldering but I just couldn't get it. I had 4 connectors to install and 3 of those in position, couldn't find solderless connectors for them so I went with crimp-on connectors-
http://www.bcdxc.org/pl259_crimp_on_connectors.htm
Properly crimped and sealed and covered should work, especially if you're taking the mast down every year.

Rich