Post by AD5DO on Dec 5, 2013 14:50:49 GMT -6
Here is a simple coax tester that when connected will light up if the coax is shorted. You can also identify a single coax from a bundle by attaching the shorting stub to the remote end. Then test the other coaxes one at a time until the unit lights up.
I purchased the case for the tester at Dollar Tree. The case was originally a magnetic window/door alarm. The case has a battery compartment for 3 button batteries (which are included). There is one small screw in the battery compartment which allows you to open the case. Remove the alarm circuit and speaker but leave the resistor and connection wire. Solder the resistor to the anode of the led and insert the cathode into the center of the SO239. Then solder a wire from the negative side of the battery pack to the chassis of the SO239.
The shorting stub is made from an old coax ends. Just cut them off and short them out. You can cover the bare wires with heat shrink tubing or electrical.
My prototype was made with parts from my junk box The only cost was $1.07 for the project box.
PARTS NEEDED FOR TESTER
1- project box
1- chassis mount SO-239
1- 3v LED
PARTS FOR SHORTING STUB
1-PL-259
1- 2" piece of coax
2 1/2" of 3/8" heat shrink tubing or electrical tape
I purchased the case for the tester at Dollar Tree. The case was originally a magnetic window/door alarm. The case has a battery compartment for 3 button batteries (which are included). There is one small screw in the battery compartment which allows you to open the case. Remove the alarm circuit and speaker but leave the resistor and connection wire. Solder the resistor to the anode of the led and insert the cathode into the center of the SO239. Then solder a wire from the negative side of the battery pack to the chassis of the SO239.
The shorting stub is made from an old coax ends. Just cut them off and short them out. You can cover the bare wires with heat shrink tubing or electrical.
My prototype was made with parts from my junk box The only cost was $1.07 for the project box.
PARTS NEEDED FOR TESTER
1- project box
1- chassis mount SO-239
1- 3v LED
PARTS FOR SHORTING STUB
1-PL-259
1- 2" piece of coax
2 1/2" of 3/8" heat shrink tubing or electrical tape
