On Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:15:19 -0500, mm
wrote:

So is there any value in getting gold-plated F connectors (if they
have them) or gold-plated A/B switches (which I know they sell)?

No. The plating is so thin, that at UHF frequencies, the skin depth
is less than the plating depth. If you want good RF conductivity, get
silver plated connectors. The real problem with gold is dissimilar
metals. Although gold will not corrode, oxidize, or rot, it will
create an electrolytic junction when wet. The result is some noise,
and possibly some corrosion of the other junction metal. What that
means is that gold is a fair idea if you use all gold connectors,
everywhere. It's not so great an idea if you mix materials.

However, that's really only for exterior installations, where water
can get into the connectors and devices. For indoor use, it's not so
much an issue unless you live in the tropics, on a boat, or in a
swamp.

It's the A/B switch I'm particularly curious about because at one
store, that was all they had, and some antenna signals are so weak, I
figured any little thing might help.

Or other gold plated connectors?

Ok, so we're off cable TV and onto OTA (over the air) issues.

The biggest improvements you do for signal strength are (in order of
importance):
1. Location, location, location, location, line of sight, etc.
2. Selection, design and construction of the antenna(s).
3. A tower mounted amplifier.
4. Everything else.
If you've done the first 3 items, to the best your abilities and
finances, then tinkering with plating materials and A-B switches is a
waste of time and money.

--
Jeff Liebermann
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558