The AM Forum

Wondering what kind of wire/cable is preferred by homebrewers for bringing that 2500V up from the power supply to the RF deck. I've looked at the Mouser catalog and they have an 18ga rubber coated test lead wire rated at 10000V. I've also seen spark plug cable used, as well as RG58 for voltages of up to 2000V or so. But I'd like to hear what people are using, and where they buy their supplies.

Also, I've heard that one should avoid the old Millen HV connectors. I'd like to hear recommendations for the connectors as well.

Thanks,

Ron W8ACR

I use shielded wire like RG8 or RG11 style coax. You get a short to ground if it gets crushed. I use packard 440 wire inside the power supply. I use HN connectors to carry HV. No problems to 6 KV here. Rubber wire dries out in time and cracks.  I would consider it unsafe for long term.

I agree with the spark plug (non-resistive) wire idea. I buy it at the local speed shop.

Bill

I use some 15KV rated teflon wire I got from Fair Radio for my HV wiring.  They probably still have it available and it is nice to work with; I purchased some of the rubber insulated HV wire from RF Parts several years ago and it is a major pain to strip and generally awkward compared to teflon.

Like GFZ says, any external HV wiring should have a grounded shield around it for safety and if you have small animals consider using soft copper tubing as the shield since it is pretty much tooth proof and flexible enough to work well.

I think there were quite a few postings on the amps list over at www.contesting.com concerning the Millen HV connectors so you might want to go over there (the archives are searchable) and you should find some good information.

Rodger

I use GTO-15 ,15kv rated, and can be found at your local neon sign shop.

I've seen packard 440 used on neon signs also.