Wire Suitable for Positioner Pulse Monitoring

[gpflepsen]

I need to reposition my VBOX further away from the dish and need to therefore extend the power and switch monitoring wires. I currently have sprinkler wire doing the duty, but the voltage drop, especially during winter is a killer for the motor power. I'll probably run a 14 ga for power, but that leaves the pulse monitoring wire to figure out.

Has anyone used either regular phone wire or even a twisted pair from CAT5 or 5e for monitoring the positioner reed switch contacts? I'll probably have between 50 and 75 ft distance, but don't know if the overall resistance would pose any issues. Is there a resistance threshold for the monitoring of the pulses? Does anyone have experience that says what will not work for the monitoring wires?

 

[KE4EST]

I used CAT-5 for the pulse wires for a couple of years with a Vbox, never remember a problem. Always best to use shielded wires so nothing spurious messes up the count, but it can work. Cheap enough to try, just make sure your hard limits are set, so something don't cause your dish to flop.

 

[Titanium]

Good call on the 14 gauge for the motor power. I prefer to use stranded 14 gauge.

For the sensor circuit, use security system wire. Available in 2-8 conductor, solid or stranded, 18 - 24 gauge with shield and drain wire.