Coaxial cables are playing a crucial role in a world that is continually finding greater dependence on telecommunications and networking capabilities. With each new day, these cables are tasked with transmitting data, television signals, and internet connections with greater reliability and efficiency than their earlier permutations.
While coaxial cables may appear similar on the surface, there are differences between each type. These differences can significantly impact performance and suitability for a variety of applications. As such, understanding these differences is essential for proper assignment of coaxial cable type to a particular in order to achieve the highest performance possible.
For example:
RG-6: RG-6 is the preferred choice for high-frequency applications such as satellite television and broadband internet. This cable type has a thicker core, which allows for less signal loss, making it a good choice for long-distance runs. Additionally, it’s also better suited to handle electromagnetic interference (EMI) due to its superior shielding.
RG-59: RG-59 is thinner & has a smaller conductor, but it remains a popular choice in CCTV systems, where flexibility & ease of installation are of great value. RG-59 also offers a budget-friendly solution.
RG-11: Applications requiring even greater distance coverage or outdoor installations, such as connecting satellite dishes to the receiver inside a building or for extensive cable TV networks, RG-11 is the cable of choice. It has a thicker core & provides even lower signal loss. Its increased size & stiffness can make installation more challenging. However, its benefits far outweigh any disadvantages.
In environments with high levels of EMI, standard shielding may not be enough protection. This is where quad shielded coaxial cables come into play. These cables, available in RG-6 and other varieties, have four layers of shielding that offer superior protection against interference. This type of heavy-duty shielding is of particular value where maintaining signal integrity is critical, such as in broadcasting or in environments with heavy machinery.
Another critical distinction in coaxial cables has to do with fire safety ratings. Plenum-rated cables are designed for use in spaces where fire safety is critical, such as in the plenum spaces above dropped ceilings or below raised floors. Key factors to keep in mind about plenum- and non-plenum cable include:
Plenum-Rated Cables: These cables are made with materials that give off lower levels of smoke & toxic fumes in the event of a fire. This makes them a safer choice in commercial & public buildings. While their cost is higher based on the specialized materials used in their manufacturing, they are often mandated by building codes in certain areas.
Non-Plenum Cables: Non-plenum cables are typically used in areas where air circulation is not a concern. These cables also offer a more cost-effective option to their counterparts. However, they should never be substituted for plenum cables in regulated spaces. Doing so could result in code violations and, and even worse, increased fire risks.
Given the number of choices of coaxial cables available, choosing the right one takes more consideration than simply selecting the first available option. Each type of cable is designed to meet a specific need and/or challenge. Understanding the difference between these coaxial cable variations is essential for ensuring optimal performance, compliance with standards, and long-term reliability in one’s systems.
However, these differences are plentiful and not always easy to navigate. For companies looking to make major investments into their coaxial cables, it is important they find the right materials that allow them to: 1) upgrade rather than replace; 2) optimize current systems; and 3) invest in materials that will keep them from having to be in the same position in the next few years.
This is where working with the right manufacturing partner is essential. LoDan Electronics, Inc. of Illinois has been cultivating global partnerships based on designing, engineering, manufacturing, and delivering cost-effective, custom-engineered interconnect solutions since 1967.
Trust your coaxial cables to a world-wide industry leader in connectors, cables, and cable assemblies. Contact LoDan Electronics, Inc. today.