In the Antenna Connectors selection you will find the connectors needed for cabling VHF and other boat antennas. Scout's selection includes PL-259 twist-on male connectors for both RG-58 and RG-213 cables, a PL-258 female-female-UHF adapter for connecting two PL-259 connectors, female-female and male versions of the N connector for RG-58 cable, and a BNC male twist-on connector for RG-58 cable.
Choosing the right connector depends on both the type of cable (RG-58 or the thicker RG-213) and the device’s own connection standard — PL-259 is the most common connector for VHF radios, N-connector is typical for some AIS and other specialty equipment, and BNC is common for handheld radios and measuring devices. Twist-on connectors are installed without soldering by twisting the outer jacket of the cable onto the threads of the connector, making installation easier without the need for special tools.
Adapters, such as PL-258 female-female, are useful when two similar connectors need to be connected together, for example when making an extension cable or when fitting an old antenna cable to a new device. A bad or loose antenna connector will significantly reduce the range of a VHF radio, so proper tightening of the connector and weather protection after installation are important for functionality.
When installing an antenna connector, the advantage of twist-on connectors is their easy installation without special tools, but proper tightening is still crucial — a loose connector significantly impairs signal transmission and can, over time, allow moisture to enter the cable, which corrodes the conductor and further reduces the range of the VHF radio. The choice of connector type (PL-259, N-connector or BNC) should be made strictly according to the device's own connection standard — the wrong connector simply will not fit the device, and daisy-chaining adapters between several different connectors is not recommended, as each connection is a potential source of signal loss and leakage. The cable thickness (RG-58 or thicker RG-213) should correspond to the connector's dimensions — a cable of the wrong size will not fit tightly into the connector, which will reduce both mechanical strength and electrical contact. It is recommended to protect outdoor joints separately from moisture with heat shrink tubing or joint tape, even if the joint itself is well tightened, as long-term UV and moisture exposure will weaken the joint over time.
After installing the connectors, it is worth testing the signal quality in practice so that any loose contacts are detected before the actual sailing season.
The correct selection of connectors and careful installation ensure a reliable VHF connection throughout the boating season.
Regular inspection of the connectors and protection from moisture will extend the long-term reliability of the entire antenna system.
High-quality connectors are the foundation for a reliable VHF connection throughout the sailing season.