Whenever you need to set up communications operations, being able to send high fidelity messages a long way is often of great importance. A mast cable assembly is one of the most popular options for broadcasting and receiving radio and comms signals over vast distances. Whether you are setting up a military installation, oil field communications, or if you are just a radio hobbyist, constructing your own high quality mast assembly will ensure your messages get where they need to go. Here is how a cable assembly mast works.
What is a Mast Assembly
Perhaps the biggest advantage to using a mast assembly is that it puts your cables, transmitters, and receivers high in the air where they can access more radio waves, but also protects the assembly from the sun, wind, and rain. This means that your wiring will be safe from electrical failures and normal wear and tear.
Typically on a mast assembly the manufacturer will include a weather-proof vinyl sleeve, that is durable and impact-resistant to keep your wiring fully insulated from harm. In addition to this outer jacket, which is removable, your wiring may also be housed within the mast itself. This provides additional protection from the elements, as well as greater structural strength.
Uses for a Mast Cable Assembly
Many electricians will recommend a mast assembly for a number of different uses. The name ‘mast’ assembly comes from the most common use for this type of technology: providing communications abilities to sailors at sea. Since the advent of radio, sailors have included small antennaes wired to the top of their vessel’s mast. Today, those sea-faring mast assemblies provide radio capabilities, but may also be able to carry certain satellite-based internet and cell phone capabilities.
While they originated on boats, these assemblies are also used in military operations, when setting up communications at certain bases or outposts. They are used in major construction, drilling, and mining projects, allowing project managers to speak with their technicians in the field from a long way away. You may have even noticed them in simple form on the highway, amplifying the signals of CB radios.
Advantages
Compared to other options, a mast assembly provides one huge advantage, the fact that your cables will never get tangled. Tangled wires can lead to irreversible harm to your equipment, particularly if the wires are frequently used in high-impact environments where they may be susceptible to pulling or crushing forces. Additionally, without a mast cables may rub together, which can eventually lead to a short if the friction wears away the insulating jacket. When the cables are held inside the mast, however, they are held in place and protected.
Low Cost
By far the greatest advantage of mast assemblies is that they do not require you to spend a lot of money. Also, since they are so easy to set up, your installation and maintenance costs are negligible as well. Your various cabling components slide into the sleeve of the mast and are easily guided to the top. Using a mast cable assembly is an excellent addition to your communications protocol. Find out how you can implement these assemblies into your operations, contact LoDan Electronics today!