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Cable

How to Crimp LMR Connectors Correctly: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on by rai

A poorly terminated connector is the number one cause of signal degradation on an otherwise well-designed RF installation. LMR cables — particularly LMR-400 — are used on VSAT IFL runs, radio base station feedlines, and outdoor antenna installations where the connector is exposed to weather, vibration, and long-term stress. Getting the crimp right the first time saves you a troubleshooting call six months later.

This guide walks through the complete termination process for LMR-400 with an N-type crimp connector — the most common combination in VSAT and radio work — and covers the critical dimensions, tools, and mistakes that separate a reliable termination from a future fault.

LMR-400 Cable Preparation — Strip Stages

Jacket
Full length
Braid exposed
25.4 mm
(fold back)
Dielectric
12.7 mm
(stripped)
Centre pin
12.7 mm
exposed
Outer jacket (PE)
Braid + foil shield
Foam PE dielectric
Copper centre conductor

LMR-400 N-type crimp | Dimensions per Times Microwave spec | bravosatcom.com

What You’ll Need

Getting the right tools matters more than most people realise. Undersized or worn tooling causes crimp failures that are invisible to the eye but catastrophic for RF performance.

ToolPurposeNotes
Coax cable cutterClean, square cable cutNever use wire cutters or a hacksaw — both distort the cable end
Rotary coax stripperStrip jacket, braid, dielectric to exact dimensionsSet blade depths for LMR-400 specifically
Hex crimp tool + dieCompress ferrule onto braidLMR-400 N-type typically requires 0.429″ hex die — check connector spec
Utility knife / deburring toolClean dielectric end, remove stray braid strands
Vernier calipersVerify strip dimensionsOptional but recommended for critical installs
MultimeterPost-crimp continuity testMandatory before putting the cable into service
Connector types: This guide covers crimp connectors — the most common in field work. Times Microwave also makes EZ-400 compression connectors (faster, single-action, requires the matching tool) and solder-type connectors. The cable prep dimensions are similar but confirm against your specific connector’s installation sheet.

Strip Dimensions for LMR-400 N-Type Crimp

These are the published Times Microwave strip dimensions for LMR-400 with a standard N-type crimp connector. Write these on your tool bag if you do this regularly.

StripDimensionWhat It Exposes
Outer jacket removal25.4 mm (1.00″)Braid for fold-back
Braid fold-back point12.7 mm (0.50″) from jacket endPositions braid over ferrule
Dielectric removal12.7 mm (0.50″) from fold pointCentre conductor
Centre conductor trimFlush with connector pin faceClean mating contact
Dimensions vary between connector manufacturers. Always cross-check against your specific connector’s installation sheet before terminating.

Step-by-Step: N-Type Crimp on LMR-400

1
Cut the cable square. Use a proper coax cutter. The cut must be clean, flat, and perpendicular. Inspect: jacket, braid, dielectric, and centre conductor must all be concentric and undamaged. Any burr or angle — cut again.
2
Slide on the crimp ferrule first. Before stripping anything, slide the crimp ferrule (small metal ring) onto the cable with the open end facing the cable end. This is the most commonly forgotten step. You cannot install it after the connector body is on.
3
Strip the outer jacket — 25.4 mm. Set your rotary stripper and rotate 2–3 times, then pull the jacket off cleanly. Inspect the braid — intact, no nicks, no cut strands. Remove any cut braid strands before proceeding.
4
Fold back the braid — at 12.7 mm. Comb the braid wires back evenly over the outer jacket. Spread uniformly around the full circumference — avoid bunching. Bunched braid concentrates crimp force on one side and reduces shield effectiveness.
5
Strip the dielectric — 12.7 mm. Remove foam dielectric to expose the centre conductor. The cut must be clean — no gouges or teeth marks on the copper. Even minor nicks increase PIM and create stress crack points under vibration.
6
Inspect before assembly. Blow out loose strands. Verify strip dimensions. Confirm no braid strands are on the dielectric. Check the centre conductor is round and undamaged. A 30-second inspection here prevents a re-termination in the field.
7
Install the connector body. Slide the connector body onto the cable. The centre conductor passes through the contact pin and protrudes slightly — trim flush with the pin face. The braid seats inside the connector’s braid seat area. Push fully home until it seats firmly.
8
Slide the ferrule into position. Slide the crimp ferrule forward until it butts against the rear of the connector body, sitting over the folded braid.
9
Crimp. Place the ferrule in the correct hex die. Close the handles with a single smooth, firm stroke until the ratchet releases. One complete ratchet cycle only — do not over-crimp (distorts the body) or under-crimp (ferrule slips).
10
Inspect the finished crimp. The ferrule should be uniformly hexagonal, no cracking or oval distortion. Firm tug — connector should not move. No braid strands protruding. Centre pin flush or just proud of the mating face.

Common Mistakes

MistakeConsequenceFix
Forgetting the ferrule before assemblyMust cut off connector and restartSlide ferrule on as Step 2, every time
Nicked centre conductorPIM, cracking under vibration, future openRe-cut cable end and re-terminate
Stray braid strands on dielectricDead short centre-to-outerInspect under good light before inserting body
Wrong hex die sizeUnder-crimp — passes pull test, fails in fieldAlways match die to connector spec sheet
Bunched braid foldNon-uniform crimp, reduced shield coverageComb braid evenly around full circumference
Centre pin too longBottoms out in mating connector, damages bothTrim flush with pin face
RG-8 connector on LMR-400Wrong bore — mechanically and electrically poorAlways use connectors specified for LMR-400

Testing Your Termination

Every terminated connector should pass three checks before the cable goes into service:

① Visual Inspection
Ferrule uniformly hexagonal. No braid strands protruding. Centre pin flush. Connector firmly seated — no movement under hand tug.
② DC Continuity (Multimeter)
Centre pin to centre pin: continuity. Centre pin to outer body: open circuit. Any short = failed termination, re-terminate.
③ Return Loss / VSWR (if available)
Good LMR-400 termination: >25 dB return loss (VSWR <1.12:1) at 1 GHz. Worse than 20 dB (VSWR >1.22:1) indicates a problem.

Connector Compatibility Quick Reference

Always match the connector spec to your cable. Using an LMR-400 connector on LMR-600 is the most common ordering mistake.

LMR CableStandard ConnectorCrimp Die (typical)Notes
LMR-195N-type, SMA, BNCPer connector specCheck braid OD matches
LMR-240N-type, SMAPer connector spec
LMR-400N-type0.429″ hex (typical)Standard VSAT IFL
LMR-600N-type, 7/16 DINDifferent bodyDo NOT mix with LMR-400 connectors
LMR-900N-type, 7/16 DINLarge-body only7/16 DIN preferred for high power

For a full cable series comparison, see the Times Microwave LMR Series guide.

FAQ

Can I reuse an LMR connector after removing it?
No. Once a crimp ferrule has been compressed, it cannot be re-used. Cut the connector off, re-prepare the cable end, and use a new connector.

What’s the minimum pull-out force for a properly crimped LMR-400 connector?
Times Microwave specifies approximately 45 kg (100 lbs) minimum pull-out strength for a correctly crimped LMR-400 N-type. If yours pulls off with hand force, the crimp failed.

Can I use a standard N-type connector meant for RG-8 on LMR-400?
No. LMR-400 has a different OD, braid construction, and dielectric. Using an RG-8 connector produces a mechanically and electrically poor termination. Always specify connectors made for LMR-400.

How do I know if my crimp tool die is worn?
A worn die produces ferrules that are out-of-round or show uneven hex faces. Check with calipers — if in doubt, replace the die. A worn die is cheaper to replace than a failed installation.

What’s the difference between silver and gold centre pins?
Silver-plated pins are standard for VSAT work. Gold pins appear in some lower-frequency or high-reliability connectors. For LMR-400 N-type in VSAT IFL work, silver-plated is correct.

Need LMR Cables and Connectors?

Bravo Satcom supplies Times Microwave LMR cables and N-type connectors for VSAT and radio installations across the UAE and GCC. We stock LMR-240, LMR-400, and LMR-600 with matching crimp and compression connectors.

→ Browse cable products    → Request a quote

Cable

LMR-400 vs LMR-600 Coaxial Cable: Which Should You Choose?

Posted on by admin

If you’re specifying cable for a VSAT antenna, two-way radio system, or any RF installation, you’ve likely hit the same question: LMR-400 or LMR-600? Both are Times Microwave Systems’ most popular flexible coax cables — low loss, UV-resistant, and built for outdoor use. The difference comes down to run length, signal loss budget, and how much space you have to work with.

This guide gives you the specs, the attenuation data, and a clear decision rule.

LMR-400 vs LMR-600 coaxial cable cross-section comparison drawn to scale — showing outer jacket, copper braid shield, aluminium tape, foam dielectric, and CCA center conductor for both cables
LMR-400 and LMR-600 cross-sections drawn to scale. The larger conductor in LMR-600 (0.176″ vs 0.108″) is the primary reason for its 35% lower signal loss.

Physical Specs: Side by Side

PropertyLMR-400LMR-600
Outer Diameter0.405″ (10.3 mm)0.590″ (15.0 mm)
Center Conductor OD0.108″0.176″
Center Conductor MaterialCopper-clad aluminumCopper-clad aluminum
Minimum Bend Radius1.0″ (25 mm)1.5″ (38 mm)
Weight0.068 lbs/ft0.131 lbs/ft
Impedance50 Ω50 Ω
Temperature Range−40°C to +85°C−40°C to +85°C
DC Resistance (center, per 1000 ft)1.39 Ω0.53 Ω

The bigger conductor in LMR-600 (0.176″ vs 0.108″) is the reason it outperforms LMR-400 on signal loss — lower DC resistance means less energy dissipated as heat per foot of cable.

Signal Attenuation: The Numbers That Matter

Attenuation is measured in dB per 100 feet — the lower the number, the better. Based on Times Microwave Systems official specifications:

FrequencyLMR-400LMR-600Improvement
100 MHz~1.0 dB/100ft~0.65 dB/100ft~35% less loss
450 MHz (L-band)~1.7 dB/100ft~1.1 dB/100ft~35% less loss
900 MHz~2.6 dB/100ft~1.7 dB/100ft~35% less loss
1,500 MHz (VSAT IF)~3.5 dB/100ft~2.2 dB/100ft~37% less loss
2,000 MHz~4.2 dB/100ft~2.7 dB/100ft~36% less loss
2,500 MHz~4.8 dB/100ft~3.1 dB/100ft~35% less loss
LMR-400 vs LMR-600 signal attenuation comparison chart — dB loss per 100 feet from 100 MHz to 2500 MHz, showing LMR-600 delivers approximately 35% less signal loss at all frequencies
LMR-600 consistently delivers ~35% less signal loss than LMR-400 at every frequency. The gap compounds over longer runs.

LMR-600 delivers roughly 35% less attenuation at all frequencies compared to LMR-400. That gap compounds quickly over longer runs.

Real-world example: A 30-metre (100 ft) run at 1,500 MHz (typical VSAT L-band IF):
LMR-400: ~3.5 dB loss  |  LMR-600: ~2.2 dB loss  |  Difference: 1.3 dB — meaningful when your modem’s link budget is already tight.

When LMR-400 Is the Right Choice

LMR-400 is the industry standard for good reason. Choose it when:

Run length is under 30 metres (100 ft). At this distance, the loss difference between LMR-400 and LMR-600 is minimal and doesn’t justify the cost or weight difference.

You need flexibility. With a 1.0″ minimum bend radius, LMR-400 is significantly easier to route through conduit, around corners, and in tight equipment racks.

Weight matters. At 0.068 lbs/ft (vs 0.131 lbs/ft for LMR-600), LMR-400 is nearly half the weight — important for rooftop or tower installations where cable tray loading is a concern.

Budget is a factor. LMR-400 is meaningfully less expensive per metre than LMR-600, making it the practical default for short-to-medium runs.

LMR-400 is the cable of choice for most VSAT antenna-to-modem runs, two-way radio base station feeders, and short rooftop drops.

When You Should Upgrade to LMR-600

Move to LMR-600 when signal loss budget is tight:

Run length exceeds 30–40 metres (100–130 ft). Beyond this point, the accumulated loss in LMR-400 starts eating into your link margin — especially at higher frequencies (Ku-band IF at 950–1,450 MHz and above).

High-power applications. LMR-600’s larger conductor handles more RF power before thermal losses become a concern — relevant for high-wattage BUC installations where every dB matters.

You’re running at 1 GHz or above over long distances. Attenuation increases with frequency. A 60-metre Ku-band IF run at 1,500 MHz in LMR-400 loses ~7.0 dB. In LMR-600, the same run loses ~4.4 dB. That 2.6 dB difference can be the margin between a stable link and intermittent dropouts.

Maximum cable run distances: LMR-600 supports antenna cable runs up to 400 ft (120 m) without inline amplification. LMR-400 is typically limited to around 200 ft (60 m) before loss becomes unacceptable at Ku-band frequencies.

Cost and Installation

LMR-600 typically costs 30–50% more per metre than LMR-400. It’s also heavier and stiffer, requiring more careful routing and stronger support hardware — cable trays and support clamps need to account for the increased weight (0.131 lbs/ft vs 0.068 lbs/ft).

Connectors are cable-specific — don’t mix LMR-400 and LMR-600 connectors. If you’re terminating in the field, LMR-600 requires a larger stripper tool and more robust crimp or compression fittings. Both cables accept Times Microwave Systems EZ push-on connectors, which eliminates soldering on site.

Decision guide flowchart for LMR-400 vs LMR-600 cable selection — three questions: run length over 30m, frequency above 1 GHz, or high-power BUC system
Answer three questions — run length, frequency, and power — and you have your cable choice.

The Simple Decision Rule

Under 30 m and below 1 GHz? → LMR-400.

Over 30 m, or high frequency, or high-power BUC? → LMR-600.

If you’re ever in doubt, calculate your total path loss budget: add up the cable loss, connector insertion loss (~0.1 dB per connector), and any other passive components. If the total pushes you within 1–2 dB of your link margin, upgrade to LMR-600.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix LMR-400 and LMR-600 in the same run?

Yes, but only with proper barrel adapters. Keep the LMR-600 section on the longer runs and use LMR-400 for short flexible jumpers at each end.

Are LMR-400 and LMR-600 connectors interchangeable?

No. Each cable requires its own connector size. LMR-400 and LMR-600 both accept N-type, TNC, and SMA connectors — but in their respective sizes. They are not physically compatible with each other.

Which cable is better for outdoor VSAT installations in hot climates?

Both use a black UV-protected polyethylene jacket rated for −40°C to +85°C, making them suitable for the UAE and GCC climate. For buried runs, specify LMR-DB (watertight/flooded version) from Times Microwave Systems.

Does LMR-600 need different support hardware?

Yes. At 0.131 lbs/ft, LMR-600 requires stronger cable trays and more frequent support points — approximately every 18–24 inches on horizontal runs vs every 24–36 inches for LMR-400.

Shop LMR Coaxial Cable at Bravo Satcom

Bravo Satcom stocks Times Microwave Systems LMR coaxial cable including LMR-400 and LMR-600, along with the full range of N-type, TNC, SMA, and BNC connectors for both cable types. Available for delivery across the UAE and GCC.

Contact us at sales@bravosatcom.com or +971 55 541 5892 for cut lengths, bulk pricing, or pre-terminated assemblies.

Cable

LMR240 vs RG58 Coaxial Cable Comparison

Posted on by rai
LMR 240 v RG58
16
Jul
LMR240 vs RG58 Coaxial Cable Comparison

LMR240 vs RG58 Coaxial Cable Comparison

Feature LMR240 RG58
Impedance 50 Ohm 50 Ohm
Outer Diameter ~6.1 mm ~4.95 mm
Loss per 100ft @ 100 MHz ~4.2 dB ~7.9 dB
Shielding Foil + 90% Braid ~70% Braid Only
Flexibility Semi-flexible More flexible
UV Resistance Good Varies
Typical Use Wi-Fi, Cellular, GPS, Low-loss runs Short HF/VHF, General radio
Max Frequency Up to 6 GHz (practical) Up to ~1 GHz (practical)
Cost Slightly higher Cheaper

When to Choose LMR240

LMR240 is ideal for longer runs, higher frequencies, and outdoor installations where low loss and good shielding matter.

When to Choose RG58

RG58 works well for short cable runs at lower frequencies where flexibility and lower cost are more important than ultra-low loss.

Cable

Belden RG6 Cable

Posted on by rai

Belden RG6 Cable | High-Quality Coaxial Cable for TV, Satellite & Broadband

Looking for a reliable RG6 cable? The Belden RG6 Coaxial Cable is trusted worldwide for delivering clear signals and minimal interference. Perfect for Cable TV (CATV), satellite TV, CCTV systems, and high-speed internet, Belden RG6 ensures top performance for both residential and commercial installations.

Why Choose Belden RG6 Coaxial Cable?

  • Superior Signal Quality: 75-ohm impedance with excellent shielding for minimal signal loss and interference.
  • Durable and Versatile: Solid copper or copper-clad steel conductor, foamed PE dielectric, and dual or quad shielding for maximum protection.
  • Flexible Installation: Available in plenum-rated, riser-rated, or direct burial versions — ideal for indoor and outdoor use.
  • Trusted Worldwide: Belden is an industry leader known for premium quality coaxial cables.

Belden RG6 Cable Specifications

Feature Details
Impedance 75 Ohms
Frequency Range Up to 3 GHz
Conductor Solid Bare Copper / CCS
Shielding 60% braid + 100% foil or quad shield
Jacket Material PVC, Plenum (CMP), or Riser (CMR)
Certifications UL Listed, RoHS compliant
Applications CATV, Satellite TV, CCTV, Internet

Popular Belden RG6 Cable Models

  • Belden 9116
  • Belden 7915A
  • Belden 1189A

Order Belden RG6 Cable Now

Upgrade your signal transmission with premium Belden RG6 Coaxial Cable. Whether you’re wiring your home theater, satellite dish, or CCTV system, you’ll get reliable performance that lasts.

Shop Belden RG6 Coaxial Cable Now

Cable

RG223 vs LMR 240: Exploring the Differences in Coaxial Cables

Posted on by rai

When it comes to coaxial cables, two popular options are the RG223 and LMR240. These cables are widely used in various applications, from radio frequency (RF) communication to video transmission. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two coaxial cable types, highlighting their unique features, performance characteristics, and suitable applications.

 

Comparing RG223 and LMR240 Coaxial Cables

Specification RG223 LMR240
Impedance 50 Ohms 50 Ohms
Outer Diameter 0.216 inches (5.49 mm) 0.240 inches (6.10 mm)
Attenuation at 100 MHz 0.39 dB/m 0.33 dB/m
Attenuation at 1 GHz 1.29 dB/m 1.01 dB/m
Attenuation at 3 GHz 2.30 dB/m 1.82 dB/m
Minimum Bend Radius 20 mm 25 mm
Maximum Operating Voltage 1500 V 1500 V
Temperature Range -55°C to +200°C -65°C to +200°C

 

RG223 Coaxial Cable

The RG223 coaxial cable is a type of 50-ohm cable that is widely used in various applications, including radio frequency (RF) communications, video transmission, and test equipment. It is known for its reliable performance and ruggedness, making it a popular choice in harsh environments.

One of the key features of the RG223 is its small outer diameter, which makes it highly flexible and easy to route in tight spaces. This cable is often used in applications where space is limited, such as in-vehicle installations or portable equipment.

 

LMR240 Coaxial Cable

The LMR240 coaxial cable is another 50-ohm option that is designed for superior performance and reliability. This cable is often used in applications that require low signal loss, such as cellular networks, satellite communications, and high-frequency radio systems.

Compared to the RG223, the LMR240 has a slightly larger outer diameter, which provides better shielding and lower attenuation. This makes it a more suitable choice for longer cable runs or applications where signal integrity is of utmost importance.

Cable

RG58 vs. LMR400: Choosing the Right Coaxial Cable for Your Needs

Posted on by rai

When it comes to coaxial cables, two of the most common types are RG58 and LMR400. While they may seem similar, these cables have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. Understanding the differences between RG58 and LMR400 is crucial for anyone working with or selecting the right cable for their needs.

 

Characteristic Comparison

Characteristic RG58 LMR400
Impedance 50 ohms 50 ohms
Diameter 0.195 inches 0.405 inches
Attenuation Higher Lower
Flexibility More flexible Less flexible
Cost Less expensive More expensive

 

Application Differences

Application RG58 LMR400
Usage Low-power, short-distance (e.g. amateur radio, CCTV, jumper cables) High-power, long-distance (e.g. cellular networks, satellite communications, military communications)

 

By understanding the key differences between RG58 and LMR400 cables, readers can make informed decisions when selecting the appropriate cable for their specific needs, whether it’s for a home wireless network or a complex communication system.

Cable

Comparing Attenuation Performance: LMR-240, RG-58, and RG-223

Posted on by rai

When it comes to coaxial cable performance, the attenuation characteristics are crucial, as they directly impact the signal integrity and transmission efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at how the LMR-240 from Times Microwave Systems compares to the more traditional RG-58 and RG-223 cables in terms of attenuation:

 

Frequency LMR-240 Attenuation (dB/100ft) RG-58 Attenuation (dB/100ft) RG-223 Attenuation (dB/100ft)
1 GHz 2.1 [1] 4.9 [2] 3.5 [2]
3 GHz 3.5 [1] 8.1 [2] 6.0 [2]
6 GHz 5.3 [1] 12.0 [2] 9.3 [2]
10 GHz 7.6 [1] 17.5 [2] 14.0 [2]

 

As the table clearly illustrates, the LMR-240 cable offers significantly lower attenuation rates across all the tested frequencies when compared to the RG-58 and RG-223 cables.

At 1 GHz, the LMR-240 has an attenuation of just 2.1 dB/100ft [1], while the RG-58 and RG-223 cables exhibit attenuation levels of 4.9 dB/100ft [2] and 3.5 dB/100ft [2], respectively. This difference becomes even more pronounced at higher frequencies, with the LMR-240 maintaining a clear advantage.

For instance, at 10 GHz, the LMR-240 has an attenuation of 7.6 dB/100ft [1], whereas the RG-58 and RG-223 cables experience much higher attenuation levels of 17.5 dB/100ft [2] and 14.0 dB/100ft [2], respectively.

This superior attenuation performance of the LMR-240 cable is a key factor in its widespread adoption across various industries, where signal integrity and transmission efficiency are of utmost importance, such as in telecommunications, satellite communications, and high-frequency RF systems.

By providing this side-by-side comparison, I aim to highlight the distinct advantages of the LMR-240 coax cables from Times Microwave Systems, positioning them as a preferred choice over the more traditional RG-58 and RG-223 cable options.

 

 

Sources:

[1] Times Microwave Systems, “LMR-240 Coax Cables Datasheet”

[2] RF Cafe, “Coaxial Cable Attenuation Comparison Chart”

 
Cable

Belden 9116 Cable: Optimal Characteristics and Usage for Audio, Video, and Data Transmission

Posted on by admin

Belden 9116 is a high-quality coaxial cable that I commonly use for audio, video, and data transmission applications. In this article, I’ll explore the best characteristics of the Belden 9116 cable and how to utilize it optimally for various use cases.

 

Key Characteristics of Belden 9116 Cable

  • Low Signal Loss: The Belden 9116 cable is designed to minimize attenuation, ensuring signal integrity over longer distances.
  • Robust Shielding: The cable features a 100% coverage aluminum foil and braided shield, providing excellent protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI).
  • Flexibility and Durability: The Belden 9116 cable is relatively flexible and has a durable PVC jacket, making it suitable for various environments, including industrial and outdoor settings.
  • Wide Bandwidth: The cable supports a broad frequency range, making it suitable for high-speed data applications.
  • Impedance Match: The 9116 cable has a characteristic impedance of 75 ohms, matching the standard used in many audio/video and RF applications.

 

Optimal Usage for Belden 9116 Cable

  1. Audio/Video Applications: I commonly use the Belden 9116 cable for connecting audio/video equipment such as TVs, amplifiers, DVRs, and home theater systems. It can transmit high-quality analog and digital audio/video signals over long distances with minimal signal loss.

  2. RF and Antenna Connections: The Belden 9116 cable is suitable for use in radio frequency (RF) applications, such as connecting antennas to receivers or transmitters. I can use it for distributing antenna signals in a multi-room or multi-device setup, such as a whole-home TV antenna distribution system.

  3. Data Transmission: The Belden 9116 cable can also be used for high-speed data transmission, such as in Ethernet or other digital data networks. Its low-loss and shielding characteristics make it suitable for reliable data transmission over longer distances.

 

Tips for Optimal Belden 9116 Cable Usage

  • Proper Termination: I ensure that connectors are properly crimped or soldered to avoid signal loss. I use quality connectors compatible with the cable.
  • Minimize Cable Length: I keep cable runs as short as possible to maintain signal quality.
  • Avoid Sharp Bends: When installing, I avoid sharp bends and twists in the cable to prevent degrading the cable performance.
  • Use in Shielded Environments: For maximum performance, I utilize the cable in shielded environments or with additional shielding techniques.
  • Test the Installation: I always test the installation with appropriate tools to ensure that signal integrity is maintained.

 

By understanding the characteristics and following the optimal usage guidelines, I can ensure that the Belden 9116 cable delivers reliable and high-quality performance in my audio/video, RF, and data transmission applications.

Cable

What Does “RG” mean in RG cables?

Posted on by rai
The “RG” in RG cables stands for “Radio Guide”. This is a standardized designation system that was developed by the United States military during World War II to specify different types of coaxial cables.
 
The “RG” nomenclature was first introduced in the 1940s by the Joint Army-Navy Specification (JAN) to create a consistent way of identifying the various coaxial cable designs and their intended applications.
 
Here’s a breakdown of what the “RG” numbers signify:
 
  • RG-6 – A common coaxial cable used for cable TV, satellite TV, and other broadband applications.
  • RG-59 – A thinner coaxial cable used for video and CCTV applications.
  • RG-8 – A heavier, low-loss cable used for longer distance runs, such as amateur radio and CB radio.
  • RG-11 – Similar to RG-8, but with a slightly different impedance and used for applications like CATV trunk lines.
  • RG-58 – A thin, flexible cable commonly used for test equipment and some RF applications.
 
The “RG” designation provides a standardized way to quickly identify the key specifications and intended uses of different coaxial cable types, which was very useful for the military and later the broader electronics industry.
Cable

What’s The Best RG cable for 2 Way Radio Communication

Posted on by rai

When it comes to two-way radio communication, the choice of RG cable can have a significant impact on the quality and reliability of the signal. The best RG cable for two-way radio communication depends on several factors, including the frequency range, power requirements, and environmental conditions.

One of the most popular RG cable options for two-way radio communication is RG-58. This cable is relatively inexpensive, flexible, and suitable for lower-power applications. RG-58 is often used in handheld radios, mobile installations, and short-range applications. However, it is important to note that RG-58 has higher signal loss compared to other RG cable types, which can affect the range and performance of the two-way radio system.

Another option to consider is RG-213. This cable is thicker and more robust than RG-58, making it better suited for higher-power applications and longer cable runs. RG-213 has lower signal loss and can provide better performance over longer distances. It is commonly used in base station and repeater installations, as well as in mobile applications where longer cable runs are required.

For applications that require even lower signal loss and greater durability, RG-8 or RG-8X cables may be a suitable choice. These cables are larger in diameter and offer superior shielding, which can improve signal quality and reduce interference. RG-8 and RG-8X are often used in high-power base station applications, as well as in outdoor or harsh environments where the cable needs to withstand the elements.

When selecting the best RG cable for your two-way radio communication needs, it’s important to consider factors such as frequency range, power requirements, cable length, and environmental conditions. Consulting with an experienced radio or cable specialist can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your two-way radio system operates at its optimal performance.

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