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Originally Posted by Mr P  Jim, are you able to elaborate on just how much signal loss might be expected from a coiled cable? I guess I end up with one of two coils or LMR400 about 2ft in diameter relatively often. I don't normally have trouble getting systems to work, but maybe I can make them work a little better. |
Both Henry Cohen and Jim Brown have told me personally that RG8 or similar high quality antenna cable needed to be stretched out and not coiled as coiling would not only hinder transmission but could also, depending on the tightness of the coil, actually have the effect of reflecting signal back down away from the receiver. Perhaps I am simplifying this, but I see significant improvement in my systems by 1) testing the cable in advance of shows on an IFR to insure the connectors and cable are good, 2) stretching out the cable when in use, and 3) testing the best paddle positions for ideal coverage on each set-up . When I've used 50' or 100' loops or bundles, I have seen a loss of 6-9dB on the receiver itself- so it was easy to see the light!
I test the paddles in a) vertical/horizontal axis (one in each), b) widely spaced vertical pairs, and c) same plane/different height as well as vertical/horizontal axis.
Hope this helps!
JvB