LMR Coaxial Cable Power and Frequency Calculator: How to Determine the Maximum Power and Frequency for LMR Cables

Coaxial cables are widely used for transmitting radio frequency (RF) signals in various applications, such as in telecommunications, broadcasting, and military communications. One popular type of coaxial cable is the LMR (Leaky Mode Radiation) cable, which offers excellent performance and reliability. In this article, we’ll discuss how to compute the power and frequency ratings for LMR coaxial cables.

Power Handling of LMR Coaxial Cables

The power handling capacity of a coaxial cable is the maximum power that it can safely carry without damaging the cable or causing signal degradation. The power handling capacity depends on several factors, including the cable’s length, attenuation, voltage rating, and current rating. The formula for computing the power handling capacity of an LMR coaxial cable is as follows:

P = (2π/λ) x (V x I) x (1 – e^(-αL))

Where:

P = Maximum power handling capacity of the cable (in watts)

λ = Wavelength of the signal (in meters)

V = Voltage rating of the cable (in volts)

I = Current rating of the cable (in amps)

α = Attenuation of the cable (in dB/m)

L = Length of the cable (in meters)

The power handling capacity of an LMR cable can be increased by using a thicker cable, reducing the cable length, or lowering the operating frequency. It’s important to note that exceeding the cable’s power handling capacity can result in signal distortion, loss, and even cable damage.

Frequency Range of LMR Coaxial Cables

The frequency range of a coaxial cable refers to the range of frequencies that the cable can transmit without significant signal loss or attenuation. The frequency range depends on the cable’s length, attenuation, and the relative permittivity of its insulation and outer conductor. The formula for computing the lower and upper frequency limits of an LMR coaxial cable is as follows:

f1 = (c / 2L) x arcsin(sqrt(εr – 1) / sqrt(εr + 1))

f2 = (c / 2L) x arcsin(sqrt(εr2 – 1) / sqrt(εr2 + 1))

Where:

f1 = Lower frequency limit of the cable (in Hz)

f2 = Upper frequency limit of the cable (in Hz)

c = Speed of light (in m/s)

L = Length of the cable (in meters)

εr = Relative permittivity of the cable insulation (dimensionless)

εr2 = Relative permittivity of the cable outer conductor (dimensionless)

The frequency range of an LMR cable can be increased by using a lower-loss cable, reducing the cable length, or using a cable with a lower relative permittivity. It’s important to note that exceeding the cable’s frequency range can result in signal degradation, loss, and even cable failure.

In conclusion, computing the power and frequency ratings of an LMR coaxial cable is important to ensure optimal performance and reliability. By using the formulas and considering the cable’s specifications, you can determine the cable’s power handling capacity and frequency range. It’s recommended to consult the cable datasheet or a professional for accurate calculations and recommendations.