SmartPlug Data and Cable Inlet

gklott

Senior Member
RV LIFE Pro
Joined
Jan 7, 2019
Messages
543
Location
Johnson City
We are using a StarLink Roam subscription, and we wanted a good way to bring the antenna-to-router cable inside our E19-F1. There was a similar discussion a year ago with other ideas. The StarLink v2 WiFi router uses a shielded Ethernet cable with proprietary connectors on each end. For the outside-to-inside transition, we installed a SmartPlug (BDCOAXEC) combined Ethernet and cable TV inlet. This inlet matches our 30A SmartPlug shore power inlet (BM30NT). The SmartPlug has a CAT6 keystone Ethernet inline coupler that maintains wire color integrity, i.e., just like a wire-to-wire splice. We have no TV, but we use the 75Ω coax for our cell booster from external antenna to inside amplifier/antenna. Purchased a 150 ft StarLink cable, and cut it with 25 ft inside and 125 ft outside. Attached two shielded Ethernet connectors using a Klein VDV226-110 ratcheting data cable crimper-stripper-cutter for RJ45 pass-thru and Klein VDV826-705 modular data plugs for CAT6A shielded and larger diameter indoor or outdoor Ethernet cable. Used the T568B wire layout on both connectors. Attached shows (1) the removed the ETI installed 75Ω coax cable port; (2) the expanded opening for the dual ports; (3) installed SmartPlug with SmartLink cable attached; and, (4) inside beneath bed showing inlet position just forward of the water inlets. Our v2 WiFi router is in the back of the street side, overhead cabinet above the bed. Ran cable from beneath the bed to the overhead cabinet behind the corner trim. Works well. Have been streaming YouTube and posted this using the StarLink service.
 

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I’ve had my eye on those smart plug inlets for data. I was waiting for the cheaper version combo in plastic rather than stainless. Big fan of there pier inlet and we swapped out the factory version .
 
Best mains inlet

Big fan of there pier inlet and we swapped out the factory version .

Agree on the shore power inlet. That was our first E19 modification.

73/gus
 

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Agree on the shore power inlet. That was our first E19 modification.

73/gus

Didn’t know Smart Plug had a cable inlet too . After watching years ago watching a fellow change out to the Smart Plug on his Airstream , decided that was what I was going to add to our 19 . Absolutely love the stainless and the secure fitting . Talked to company in Seattle and learned the designed their Smart Plug at first for boats and ridding the 1938 design which caused a lot of boat fires . Then they decided to join the RV market and I am glad for the easy and robust connection . Will have to take a look at their other offerings ! Enjoy Pat
 

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