VHF Handheld – Adapter to Connect to Fixed VHF Antenna??

[fred_s]

Just purchased a Standard Horizon HX260S handheld as a backup for my fixed VHF. Thought it might be wise to also get an adapter that will allow me to connect to my fixed VHF antenna (8 ft Digital) for maximum range.

My question is – anyone know if my only choice here is to purchase the Standard Horizon part #CAW350? Cheapest price I’ve found on web is $34.99 (go2marine.com)!! Seems a bit pricey for “3 foot of RG-58 coaxial cable with a stud connector that connects to the HX260S and a SO-239 that connects to the ships antenna�. Especially since the handheld was only $150 (after rebate)!!

I’ve got the 3 feet of RG-58 left over from my fixed install. And think I can find a male SO-239 somewhere. But guess the stud connector may be the “gotcha� (i.e. proprietary part).

Anyone faced this same “opportunity�?? I’d be extremely grateful for a little advice on this one!!

[wjay]

I'm not sure if the 260's rubber duck is a BNC type connector, but if it is, go to Radio Shack and buy a PL259/BNC connector adapter. The PL259 from your coax will screw onto this and the other end will fit right on the HX 260. They should cost a couple of bucks is all. I would suggest taking the radio with you so they can assess exactly what you need. 34.99 for a connector coax?? No Way!!!

[Hitch]

I did the same thing with my ICOM. I had to buy 2 pieces. One screws into the ICOM, the two pieces screw together and the second piece connects to the fixed Digital Ant.

I went to Radio Shack and was told that they do not carry these parts AT ALL anymore. They would not even order them. Not sure if this is all stores or just that one.

I went to a specialty electronics store for CB/HAM people. Cost about $12.

[saltybugger]

The reason they sell CABLES as adaptors now-adays is that today's radios are lighter and smaller than 10 years ago....so that means more damage can be done from flexing that small connector on top of the radio-as what happens when you use adaptors directly from a uhf to bnc/sma etc. Make a short section of cable with a stranded center conductor and you'll be better off in the long run.




My wife keeps saying I never listen to her...or something like that.

[incahoots]

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs...roductId=33020

also try boaters world, they're usually cheaper than west