Coaxial Cable and its Many Uses

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The coaxial cable was patented in 1880 and was a standard to deliver high-frequency electrical signals over areas with low signal loss. Telephone companies, cable operators commonly use coaxial cable, and internet providers worldwide to distribute data, voice, and video signals to people. It’s also used both for residential and commercial properties. 

Coaxial cable, sometimes also called a coax cable, is an electrical cable that sends out radio frequency signals from point to point. 

 

How do Coaxial Cables Function?

Their shielded design is a popular choice for data transmission while protecting it from interference and damage. They are built using 4 different layers:

  1. A centre conductor made out of copper where data travels
  2. A dielectric plastic insulator
  3. A braided copper mesh to protect the cable from EMI (electromagnetic interference)
  4. A plastic coating that protects it from damage

The coaxial cable works by holding data in the centre conductor while protecting any signal loss with additional layers of shields and reducing EMI. 

 

Uses of Coaxial Cables

Video

The most popular types of coaxial cable for video are RG-6 and RG-59. The latter is an industry-standard, while the RG-6 is recommended for digital signals.

CCTV

For CCTV or security cameras, the RG-59 coaxial cable is best, but you can also use an RG-6 for longer distances. There are pros and cons to each cable. While the RG-6 is longer, it is also thicker, heavier, and firmer which isn’t as easy to work with as an RG-59

Internet

Coaxial cables are also used to transmit internet connections signals, but these signals run on a higher frequency than the traditional analogue. To fulfill this specific requirement, the RG-6 cable was created. It is made with a large conductor and thicker dielectric insulation that provides better signal quality. RG-6 cables are also produced with a different shielding, meaning they can transmit GHz signal levels more efficiently. 

TV

If you ask us, we recommend an RG-6 coaxial cable for television use. And not just any cable, make sure you get the best quality. A poor quality coaxial cable can result in poor TV reception. Try to look for something within 75 ohm and RG-6.

HDTV

High definition means stronger signals. This type of cable requires a higher gauge and more space for signals to transmit. The best coaxial cable for high-definition television is an RG-11.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages of an Coaxial Cable

Advantages:

  • Cheap
  • Easy installation
  • Expandable
  • Durable
  • Offers ample resistance to EMI
  • Can hold up to 10mbps

Disadvantages:

There’s only 1 disadvantage to using a coaxial cable and it can significantly impact your entire system. The moment one cable fails, the entire network would result in its downfall.

 

Coaxial cable size guide

  • RG-58 –  4.9mm
  • RG-59 –  6.15mm
  • RG-6 –  6.90mm
  • RG-62 –  6.15mm
  • RG-11 10.30mm
  • RG-12  – 14.10mm
  • RG-213 –  10.30mm

 

Thinking to Buy Coaxial Cables? 

Before purchasing coaxial cables, make sure to consider a few things. What device will you use too? What OHM, connection, and impedance would your device require? Next, calculate the length that your device will travel from its source. The shorter the distance from the source, the better the signal. 

When travelling long distances, signal loss cannot be prevented, but it can be minimized. A shorter, thicker cable would minimize loss than a thinner cable. You can also lessen signal loss when your source and load impedance numbers are accurate. If you need assistance in deciding, give us a call and we’d love to help you find what you need.

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