dew strap storage

[sidelight]

Hi all,

I bought dew straps last year and they were such a great purchase I tend to use them every time I set up.  I don't have a permanent set up so I set up and tear down every time.

In the last month I have had two fail with shorts.  I'm guessing this is partly due to them no being left in place.  I usually just wind them up and tuck the cable inside (as they came), but two failing in a month and both after a year makes me wonder if I am not doing something wrong. Does anyone have any suggestions for storage of these things or have I just been unlucky?

Cheers

Ross

[LukeSkywatcher]

I bought one about a year ago also. Not had much use with it. I store mine in the same way as you. I cant say if its working or not still as i have not had it out in so long. I should plug it in and find out. I do worry about leaving it wound up for long periods.

[sidelight]

Thanks Paul,  I just think I have to accept the things are a little fragile.  Both dies at the point where the cable goes into the strap.

Cheers

Ross

[LukeSkywatcher]

That sounds odd. Once, and i'd be ok with it. The fact its happened twice now makes me think it might be a design flaw in the particular batch which you bought from. Could be an easy fix with a soldering iron?.

[sidelight]

Looks like I may have to brush up on my sewing skills the soldering I can cope with 

To me looks it looks like the cable is not clamped at all where it joins the strap, making it susceptible to twisting and putting quite a stress on the joints.  

I need to take one apart and have a look.

Cheers

Ross