Semi Rigid Coax tool kit

[steve_w]

Fellow EEVbloggers,

I am looking for some advice on working with semi rigid coax.  I used to have access to the toolkit  linked below (yes I worked for the government they are the only ones rich enough to buy this stuff):

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Macom-Trim-Point-Tool-Excellent-Condition-2598-5116-54-/171078725691

http://au.mouser.com/ProductDetail/TE-Connectivity/2598-5116-54/?qs=%2fha2pyFadugt556lUVtYXewWuHBf3AvSPTFGsrHd8KY%3d

Anybody know a workaround for semi rigid coax tools for bending and termination for SMA connectors on .141 semi rigid coax?  The cost is ridiculous;  I used to have access to this tool kit (or very similar) when I was working but now I'm retired  and I can't borrow it anymore.

Would appreciate advice on alternate tools or workarounds in the absence of tools.  I have been using some hobby tolls but there performance and my old age add up to below standard work.

Thanks in advance

Steve W

[TSL]

Hi Steve,

.141 is a PITA but I've successfully used a Stanley knife to cut it. I've used a steel rule to measure the appropriate lengths and scored it with the knife at those points.

I then rest the knife on the 141 and roll with the knife slowly cutting into it. I've also used 10mm drill shanks as mandrels for forming curves etc.

I've since moved away from 141 and moved to Flexiform 405 for most things. Its much easier to handle, similar specs and is easier to cut with a Stanley knife than 141 - and you can form it around your fingers

regards

Tim

[KJDS]

I've done a lot of 141 with a scalpel, Stanley and patience.

[radar_macgyver]

I would suggest moving to reformable coax, much easier to work with.

[tggzzz]

Has anyone tried the "miniature pipe cutters" for 3mm to 22mm pipes?

[steve_w]

Yeah in frustration I tried one from Bunnings it cuts ok but leaves an edge where the cut was and the connectors are hard to mate.

I have also used a Stanly knife but its not that flash.

[tggzzz]

Yeah in frustration I tried one from Bunnings it cuts ok but leaves an edge where the cut was and the connectors are hard to mate.

Presumably any sharp edge could be removed by a needle file or emery paper. Slow and not ideal, but would that be sufficient for occasional hobby use?

In what way are what connectors difficult to mate?

[KJDS]

The problem is that the outer gets pushed into the dielectric which causes a discontinuity. It needs to be cut off with something very sharp. I've used the corner of a triangular swiss file to go most of the way through the outer before, but it takes ages, though does mean that there is a neater end to the outer conductor.

[chris_leyson]

I spotted these, they claim to be able to strip RG405, http://uk.farnell.com/greenlee-communications/lc-cst-mini/stripper/dp/3863323

[chris_leyson]

This is sort of related to the thread, has anyone seen a soldering iron in the style of say the Antex Pipemaster for soldering SMA connectors ? They do one for 8mm microbore, maybe I could machine some new heads for RG405 or RG402 connectors. Browsing a few plumbing forums and I don't think plumbers regard them very highly, well not for copper pipe anyway. Also, I think they heat the heads up to 500C which is probably a little on the high side for SMA connectors. Maybe something a bit smaller but bigger than SMT tweezers would work. Any thoughts ?

[BradC]

Yeah in frustration I tried one from Bunnings it cuts ok but leaves an edge where the cut was and the connectors are hard to mate.

Go to a refrigeration supplier and buy one with a properly sharp and hardened wheel, then wind it in about 10 time slower than you ever think you should when cutting and you'll find it leaves a flawless edge with no crimping or burrs. Good pope cutters are quite expensive, but man once you've used a good one they are the ducks nuts.

[nctnico]

How about ordering readily made from China through Ebay? You can buy readily made cables in many lengths, qualities and connector combinations. I never make RF cables myself.

[wkb]

I like the semirigid Suhner Sucoflex. Cut it with ordinary pliers. The shield is tinned-copper braid. Stripping the shield off is easily accomplished used a hobby knife.

[KJDS]

I'll usually just buy from here.

http://www.gigatronix.co.uk/

[radar_macgyver]

I use an extra-fine hobby saw (X-acto X239) to cut the jacket. I have access to a semirigid kit at work, which includes a jig that ensures the depth-of-cut and that the cut is perpendicular to the cable. I suppose this could be done by hand, even without the jig.