Topic: Short in cable

[blu666z]

This is kind of what prompted me make my own cables.  I have been having a little problem with my mcs lately: lots of static on one channel.  Took the back of the connector and noticed that a couple of strands from the braided sleeve was touching one of the other connectors.  Could that be shorting out and causing my static?

-Kevin

[dklein]

definitely

[blu666z]

Guess I'll be doing some trimming up of strands tonite.

-Kevin

[nic]

you may also have cracks in the cable other than at the connectors.

when rebuilding the ends, first TIN(placing solder on the bare wire so you have 1 big strand instead of a bunch of tiny strands) the wires...this will help eliminate the stray wire strands from making contact with the other leads

[chuckcage]

Invest in a cheap cable tester like the Behringer or the like.  If you're in a band, it's a necessity, but it's great for checking out your cables BEFORE you miss out on something because of problems.

Every so often I take a little time and go through my whole taping, recording, and live sound rigs with the tester.

Of course, it's also a great way to make sure the cables you just built are going to work after all!

Chuck

[sexymexi]

also shrinkwrap the wires inside so youdon't have to worry.  last time i made interconnects i did that, and worked flawlessly since.  maybe you don't have to shrinkwrap all 3 but at least 2 so 3rd one cannot possiblye touch the others, and your good to go.

[BobW]

Shrinkwrap may make the wire too thick for the cover, check first.
Tinning is good, a little black tape won't hurt, shrinkwrap is neater.

What about strain relief ? Any good tips ?

[chuckcage]

What about strain relief ? Any good tips ?

Use good connectors!

Chuck

[BobW]

What about strain relief ? Any good tips ?

Use good connectors!

Chuck

You mean the kind with strain-releif and anti-shorts ?
Any good sources, I'm sure rat shack won't do.

[chuckcage]

There's another thread going with a lot of the information you're interested in, including links to all kinds of information in the archive...  Check it out:

http://www.taperssection.com/yabbse/index.php?board=3;action=display;threadid=12338;start=0

As far as connector recommendations, you can see in the other thread that my favorites are Neutriks.  They offer a couple of models including different materials and angles, though all include the same basic features.

Chuck