Do coax cable types matter a lot? Well, the answer is YES. The transmission of signals highly depends on the types of cable used. For instance, if you use RG6, its higher attenuation level restricts the frequency range and the transmission distance. On the contrary, RG11, with its low attenuation, can transmit signals at higher distances (up to 457m).

What is a coaxial cable?

Coaxial cables can send high-frequency RF signals as electric signals with minimal signal deterioration. You can use these cables in different applications, including cell boosters, TV, internet, telephone lines, etc. The different varieties of coaxial cables are designed for use in particular applications.

Work in coaxial cable:

The main electric signal passes through the central conductor of the coaxial cable.

The presence of the metal shield ensures that the signals are transmitted through the length of the cable without any loss. As the core conductor and the metal shield receive the signal, they generate a magnetic field. As a result, the signal remains intact within the cable and does not leak out. Another role of metal shields is to protect the signals from electromagnetic interference. Thus, it is possible to install the cable near electronic components.

The consistent distance between the metal shield and the central conductor ensures optimal performance because the dielectric cancels the effect of two signals and prevents their contact.

The outermost rubber jacket protects all the components from various environmental factors.

With the combined contribution of all these layers, you can send high radio frequency signals over long distances. The signals can be converted to audio, video, images, Wi-Fi or any other mode based on your application.

Coaxial cable types:

RG coax cables:

Here, RG stands for Radio guide, which indicates the military specification for these cables used originally. The RG number of the coax cable mainly signifies its diameter. The cable with a higher RG means it has a thinner central core. On the contrary, a higher RG number indicates a thicker central conductor.

LMR coax cables:

These are updated versions of RF coaxial cables with higher flexibility. Mostly, antennas on satellites, missiles, airplanes and other communication systems use LMR cables. The LMR cables are indicated as LMR (Number); here, the number indicates a rough idea of their thickness.

How to choose the right coax cable type?

The distance of the cable run:

When used for longer runs, the cable tends to lose signal strength with the distance.

However, choosing a thicker cable can reduce the signal loss to an extent. Besides, the cable's inner and outer diameter, dielectric contact of the insulator, magnetic permeability and other factors determine the wavelength quality through the cable.

Signal frequency range:

Every application needs to transmit a specific frequency signal. Not all cables can handle all types of frequency signals.

Protection against electromagnetic interference:

If a cable operates in a low EMI environment, do not prioritize EMI protection features while choosing the cable. Applications like telephonic and audio/video transmission may require electromagnetic interference shielding for optimal performance and to prevent signal deterioration.

Operating conditions:

All coax cables are designed to work in specific environmental conditions. The rating on the cable tells you how durable a cable will be in a particular environment.

* CMP (Communications Multipurpose Plenum) cables. CMP cables are suitable for use in plenum air locations. The outer jacket of these cables is fire retardant and releases minimal smoke in case of fire accidents. These heavy-duty cables are suitable for areas meant for air circulation.

* CMR (communications Multipurpose Riser) cable: Riser Coax cables are suitable for use between the floors via vertical shafts and risers. These are also fire retardants to prevent fire breakouts.

* CM (communications Multipurpose) cables: Also known as PVC cables, these commonly used cables are meant for general applications. It is not fire retardant and does produce high toxic fumes on burning. Thus, using them in riser or plenum areas is not advisable.

Coaxial cable connectors:

There are different coaxial cable connectors; BNC, F-type and SMC are the common ones. Every device and system needs a specific one for smooth functioning. The compatibility between cable connectors and the device ports ensures optimal transmission. Different applications need different types of connectors, such as one for TVs, Routers, radios and signal boosters.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for a coax cable type for your radio frequency application, Cloom is here to help you. We are a premium custom wiring harness manufacturer providing high-quality products meant for a variety of applications.