Plugging in external antenna.

[sealion]

Having to use the external antenna from Navman, because my car has an Athermic windscreen, I am increasing worried about the constant plugging in and out of the antenna MMCX connector. I am getting the feeling that the socket is already becoming loose and eventually the end will not click in securely. Anybody have any comments or similar experience?

[Dilemma]

You are right to be concerned. I suspect that the mmcx connectors are usually installed on equipment where it is not expected to be removed on a regular basis. I too have noticed that the connection seems to be becoming looser, and whereas I used to use the external aerial all the time, now only use it when in rural tree covered areas or when driving through central London due to all the high rise building reflections.

[DGreen]

I have noticed the same with using the external antenna with my PiN 300, but have been fairly unconcerned with it. Having just had a good close look at the mmcx connections is that on the antenna end, you will find a small 'circlip' like split ring that cause it to 'lock' into the nav unit connection. I suspect that this split ring is actually losing its 'springiness' due to the 'ins' and 'outs' and hence the locking does seem less firm (causing slight movement).

This was fairly standard with connectors of many years past that used a similar coupling mechanisms. They never seemed to fail.

I note that the actual connection of the 'male' and 'female' connectors part seems very solid and personally am not too worried.

I suspect if you could find the specification sheets from the manufacturers of these connectors you would find that they have a rating of connect cycles being in the 10's of 1000's. By then I shall have renewed my nav unit many times over, and it won't be of any consequence.

Best Regards,
Denis
_________________
Navman S90i
SmartST 2008 - Australian Maps, Pan European Maps
Navman S300T, MY-55T
SmartST 2009 - Australian Maps, Western & Eastern European Maps

[Daytona]

In situations where I'm concerned about regular plugging in and out of equipment, I tend to find an extension cable and leave that plugged into the item and use the extended socket for the constant disconnections. Then if the connection gets worn, it's just another cheap(ish) extension lead...

[DGreen]

To use Daytona's method to maximise the savings on connector wear, you will really need 2 extension cables and use the join between the extensions as the break point, otherwise the antenna end connector will receive just as much wear as without the extension (assuming other end extension connected to unit). But if you are concerned with the wear then Daytona's method will protect the unit's connector and then the antenna and / or extension are the cheapest components to replace.

Regards,
Denis
_________________
Navman S90i
SmartST 2008 - Australian Maps, Pan European Maps
Navman S300T, MY-55T
SmartST 2009 - Australian Maps, Western & Eastern European Maps

[Dilemma]

I guess that someone probably markets an mcx to mmcx converter plug, and vice versa. Thus this would cover all the options.

We see you’re using an ad-blocker. We’re fine with that and won’t stop you visiting the site.
Have you considered making a donation towards website running costs?.
Or you could disable your ad-blocker for this site. We think you’ll find our adverts are not overbearing!