Topic: Question about the shield on XLR cables.

[tim in jersey]

I'm planning on making a set of interconnects for myself. I'm def. not new to soldering/making cables so I have the basics down.

I'm going to make a short set of XLRF>XLRM IC's using Canare Starquad. I've used the Starquad before but I find unbraiding the shield to be a huge pain in the tush. Not to mention it's kinda big and bulky once I tin it. That's a pain, especially when making 90* ends. Seems like a good way to make a much cleaner connection inside the XLR housing.

So here's my question. Can I tin the shield and solder a short jumper to the shield instead of unbraiding and tinning the shield itself? If so should I use an insulated wire or an uninsulated wire to do so?

[tim in jersey]

^

Maybe I didn't word this properly?

Basically I want to solder a short, small gauge jumper to the shield instead of unbraiding the shield, twisting and tinning it. Why? Twisting and tinning the shield yields a pretty big, bulky, uninsulated lead that can be a bit unwieldy in tight quarters.

Or am I better off unbraiding the shield and only twisting a few of the strands and maybe shrink wrapping the shield?

[rowjimmytour]

I can not remember where I heard this but it sure helped me to use a plastic comb when I made my XLR right angle cables both male and female. I combed the shield and the braids came un done after a while. Not very fast but it still is less of a head ache then doin' it by hand. Good luck!!!
Peace

[thegreatgumbino]

I know this is an older thread, but you might be interested in this guy's method.  It's about half way down the page.

http://beradio.com/news/radio_braided_shield_cable_2/

[leehookem]

I know this is an older thread, but you might be interested in this guy's method.  It's about half way down the page.

http://beradio.com/news/radio_braided_shield_cable_2/

+T Matt... i'm gonna try that method next time I make some cables.

[Phil]

I know this is an older thread, but you might be interested in this guy's method.  It's about half way down the page.

http://beradio.com/news/radio_braided_shield_cable_2/

+T Why didn't I think of that 

[rodeen]

Piling on the T's.  That's great.  I'm going to have to build another set of cables just to try it   

[CHURCH-AUDIO]

You can do that as a matter of fact its done quite often with muilti pin connectors. There is no difference your method is faster. As long as your usign a steel connector this ok as that connector will share the ground plaine of the device it is connected to and thus extend the sheild over your cable.


Chris Church

I'm planning on making a set of interconnects for myself. I'm def. not new to soldering/making cables so I have the basics down.

I'm going to make a short set of XLRF>XLRM IC's using Canare Starquad. I've used the Starquad before but I find unbraiding the shield to be a huge pain in the tush. Not to mention it's kinda big and bulky once I tin it. That's a pain, especially when making 90* ends. Seems like a good way to make a much cleaner connection inside the XLR housing.

So here's my question. Can I tin the shield and solder a short jumper to the shield instead of unbraiding and tinning the shield itself? If so should I use an insulated wire or an uninsulated wire to do so?

[tim in jersey]

Good stuff. Thanks folks!