Hyperflex 10 low loss coax?

[GTom]

I was recommended the Hyperflex 10 coax for my masthead vhf. Losses are about 30% less than RG213. Same dimensions, no practical price difference.

However, the Hyperflex has a foam dielectric. Is it an absolute no-go to use foam in marine cables? Or with precautions the Hyperflex should be ok?

[s/v Jedi]

Originally Posted by GTom

I was recommended the Hyperflex 10 coax for my masthead vhf. Losses are about 30% less than RG213. Same dimensions, no practical price difference.

However, the Hyperflex has a foam dielectric. Is it an absolute no-go to use foam in marine cables? Or with precautions the Hyperflex should be ok?

The gold standard is Times Microwave LMR-400 UltraFlex. It seems the Hyperflex is a knockoff? I would go for the LMR400 and pay attention to the connectors to keep moisture out. The crimp connectors from Times Microwave are very good IIRC

[GTom]

Originally Posted by s/v Jedi

The gold standard is Times Microwave LMR-400 UltraFlex. It seems the Hyperflex is a knockoff? I would go for the LMR400 and pay attention to the connectors to keep moisture out. The crimp connectors from Times Microwave are very good IIRC

That's foam too:

https://www.timesmicrowave.com/DataS...LMR-400-UF.pdf

[s/v Jedi]

Originally Posted by GTom

That's foam too:

https://www.timesmicrowave.com/DataS...LMR-400-UF.pdf

Yes, that is why the performance is much better. This is why the connectors used are important as they keep moisture out.

[GTom]

Originally Posted by s/v Jedi

Yes, that is why the performance is much better. This is why the connectors used are important as they keep moisture out.

I understand then, all high performance cables I found have foam dielectric. I only have to protect the antenna connection with everything I got, I won't cut the cable at the deck level.

[s/v Jedi]

Originally Posted by GTom

I understand then, all high performance cables I found have foam dielectric. I only have to protect the antenna connection with everything I got, I won't cut the cable at the deck level.

If you do cut the cable, then install N-type connectors at the splice as they are watertight

[Wotname]

Originally Posted by GTom

I understand then, all high performance cables I found have foam dielectric. I only have to protect the antenna connection with everything I got, I won't cut the cable at the deck level.

Pay extra attention to make sure the foam dielectric is not compressed or otherwise distorted when running and securing any foam dielectric coax. It is not as forgiving to mishandling as say RG213 / 214.

[GTom]

Originally Posted by Wotname

Pay extra attention to make sure the foam dielectric is not compressed or otherwise distorted when running and securing any foam dielectric coax. It is not as forgiving to mishandling as say RG213 / 214.

Very good point. Considering what the "repairer"s done last time on my boat I should stick to an armored RG213