COAXIAL CABLE – Bravo Satcom

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Navigating RF Alternatives: Beyond LMR-400

Posted on January 26, 2024January 26, 2024 by Bravo Satcom

Exploring Alternatives to LMR-400 Coaxial Cable

Hey folks, welcome to the blog – your hub for all things tech. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of coaxial cables, specifically looking beyond the widely acclaimed LMR-400. If you’re knee-deep in wireless communications or RF applications, stick around because this is about to get interesting.

The Story of LMR-400:

LMR-400 has its own chapter in the book of coaxial cables, celebrated for its low-loss characteristics that make it the go-to for various RF applications. But here’s the kicker – did you know there are other cables out there that could give it a run for its money? Let’s unpack this.

Alternative 1: – The Flexible Contender:

First up in our lineup is the Belden 9913F7. Think of it as the LMR-400’s flexible cousin. This coaxial cable not only bends but also flexes its muscles in the realm of low-loss performance, making it a top pick for many RF enthusiasts looking for a solid alternative.

Alternative 2: Times Microwave Systems LMR-400 UltraFlex – Flexibility Redefined:

Now, picture this – a more flexible version of the already impressive LMR-400. Enter the Times Microwave Systems LMR-400 UltraFlex. It’s like getting the best of both worlds – maintaining stellar performance while offering increased flexibility. Perfect for those situations where flexibility is not just a preference but a necessity.

Alternative 3: Andrew CNT-400 – The Reliable Choice:

Moving down the list, we have the Andrew CNT-400. Born out of the CommScope legacy, this coaxial cable is a reliable choice for RF applications, standing shoulder to shoulder with the LMR-400 in terms of performance. It’s like the dependable friend you can always count on.

Alternative 4: RG-213 – The Unconventional Contender:

Last but certainly not least is the RG-213. While not an identical twin to the LMR-400, it plays the part of the unconventional contender. With similar characteristics and just a touch more loss, RG-213 might be the wildcard that suits your specific needs.

So, there you have it – a lineup of alternatives that might just make you reconsider your go-to coaxial cable. When you’re deep in the world of RF, every choice matters, and it’s essential to consider factors like attenuation, flexibility, and compatibility with your equipment.

Feel free to explore these alternatives based on your specific requirements. The coaxial cable you choose could be the unsung hero behind seamless RF communications. Until next time, tech enthusiasts – stay curious, stay connected!

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Understanding LMR400 Loss: What You Need to Know

Posted on March 31, 2023March 31, 2023 by Bravo Satcom

If you’re looking for a high-quality coaxial cable, you might have heard about LMR400. It’s a popular choice for a variety of applications, including Wi-Fi and cellular networks, amateur radio, and more. But one of the most important considerations when selecting a coaxial cable is the loss, or attenuation, that occurs as the signal travels through the cable. In this post, we’ll discuss LMR400 loss and what you need to know to make an informed decision.

What is LMR400?

LMR400 is a type of coaxial cable that has a solid copper center conductor, foam polyethylene insulation, and dual shielding consisting of a bonded aluminum foil and a tinned copper braid. The cable has a diameter of 0.405 inches (10.3 mm) and a 50-ohm impedance, which is the standard impedance for most RF applications. LMR400 is designed for low-loss applications and has a nominal attenuation of 6.6 dB per 100 feet (30 m) at 900 MHz.

LMR400 Loss: How Much Attenuation Occurs?

As mentioned earlier, loss is one of the most important considerations when selecting a coaxial cable. It’s the amount of signal that’s lost as it travels through the cable due to various factors such as resistance, dielectric losses, and radiation. In the case of LMR400, the loss is relatively low compared to other types of coaxial cables. Here’s a table of comparison for LMR400 loss at different frequencies:

Frequency (MHz)	Attenuation per 100 ft (dB)
10	0.4
50	1.1
100	1.6
400	3.9
900	6.6
1000	7.1
1500	9.3
2000	11.1
5800	24.4

As you can see, the attenuation increases as the frequency increases. This is due to the skin effect, which causes the signal to travel mainly on the surface of the conductor at higher frequencies, increasing the resistance and thus the loss.

Factors Affecting LMR400 Loss

The attenuation of LMR400 depends on several factors, including the length of the cable, the frequency of the signal, the temperature, and the installation method. For example, if the cable is kinked or bent too sharply, it can cause extra loss due to increased resistance. Likewise, if the cable is installed in an area with high temperatures, it can cause the insulation to break down, increasing the loss.

Conclusion

LMR400 is a popular coaxial cable for a variety of applications due to its low loss, high performance, and durability. When selecting a coaxial cable, it’s important to consider the attenuation or loss that occurs as the signal travels through the cable. The loss of LMR400 is relatively low compared to other types of coaxial cables, making it a great choice for long-distance and high-frequency applications. However, it’s also important to consider factors that can affect the loss, such as cable length, frequency, temperature, and installation method, to ensure optimal performance.

We hope this post has helped you understand LMR400 loss and what you need to know to make an informed decision. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.

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RF Cable or IF Cable? Know The Difference

Posted on March 23, 2023March 23, 2023 by Bravo Satcom

RF stands for “radio frequency,” while IF stands for “intermediate frequency.” Both RF and IF cables are types of coaxial cables, which are used to transmit signals in electronic devices.

What are coaxial cables?

A coaxial cable is a type of cable that has a center conductor, surrounded by an insulating layer, which is then surrounded by a metallic shield. The metallic shield helps to protect the signal from interference and noise.

What are radio signals and intermediate frequency signals?

Radio signals are high-frequency signals that are used to transmit information wirelessly. For example, when you listen to the radio in your car, the radio station sends out radio signals that your car’s antenna picks up.

Intermediate frequency (IF) signals are lower-frequency signals that are used in electronic devices, such as radios and televisions. These signals are generated by mixing or combining two or more high-frequency signals to create a lower-frequency signal that is easier to process.

What are RF cables used for?

RF cables are used to connect antennas to electronic devices, such as radios, televisions, and wireless routers. These cables carry high-frequency radio signals from the antenna to the device, allowing you to receive and process the radio signal.

What are IF cables used for?

IF cables are used in electronic devices, such as radios and televisions, to connect different stages of the receiver or transceiver. These cables carry the intermediate frequency signals, which are easier to process than high-frequency radio signals.

What’s the difference between RF and IF cables?

The main difference between RF and IF cables is the type of signal they carry and where they are used in a device. RF cables are used to transmit high-frequency radio signals from an antenna to a device, while IF cables are used to connect different stages of a receiver or transceiver, carrying intermediate frequency signals.

Table comparing RF and IF cables:

	RF Cable	IF Cable
Definition	Used to connect antennas to electronic devices, carrying high-frequency radio signals	Used to connect different stages of a receiver or transceiver, carrying intermediate frequency signals
Frequency Range	High-frequency signals	Lower-frequency signals
Application	Used in radios, televisions, and wireless routers	Used in radios and televisions
Signal Processing	Used for receiving and processing radio signals	Used for processing intermediate frequency signals

In summary, RF and IF cables are both types of coaxial cables that are used to transmit signals in electronic devices. While they may look similar, they have different uses and carry different types of signals.

RF cables are used to transmit high-frequency radio signals from an antenna to a device, while IF cables are used to connect different stages of a receiver or transceiver, carrying intermediate frequency signals.

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TOP 5: Coaxial Cable Brands and Manufacturers

Posted on March 22, 2023March 22, 2023 by Bravo Satcom

Coaxial cables are a type of cable that’s commonly used for transmitting high-frequency signals between electronic devices. They consist of an inner conductor surrounded by a dielectric insulator, which is in turn surrounded by an outer conductor, often in the form of a braided shield.

What makes coaxial cables special is their ability to maintain signal integrity over long distances. They’re able to do this because of their unique design, which helps prevent signal loss and interference. Here’s how it works:

The inner conductor carries the signal, which is often an electrical current or electromagnetic wave. The dielectric insulator separates the inner conductor from the outer conductor, which serves as a shield. The outer conductor helps prevent interference from external electromagnetic fields and also helps keep the signal from leaking out.

The quality of a coaxial cable is determined by various factors, such as its impedance, attenuation, shielding, and bandwidth. A higher-quality cable will have lower attenuation and higher shielding effectiveness, which means it can transmit signals over longer distances with less signal loss.

When it comes to coaxial cables, there are several manufacturers and brands to choose from. Here are some of the top ones:

Belden Inc.
CommScope Inc.
Times Microwave Systems
Amphenol RF
RG-Coaxial

Belden Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high-performance coaxial cables used in various industries, including telecommunications, broadcast, and military. CommScope Inc. offers a variety of coaxial cables for different applications, such as wireless networks, broadband, and video surveillance. Times Microwave Systems specializes in manufacturing high-quality coaxial cables for military, aerospace, and commercial applications. Amphenol RF is a leading supplier of RF coaxial connectors and cables for various industries, including telecommunications, automotive, and medical. RG-Coaxial is a well-known brand of coaxial cables that are widely used in consumer electronics, such as TVs, radios, and antennas.

In conclusion, coaxial cables are an important part of modern electronics, allowing for the transmission of high-frequency signals over long distances with minimal signal loss. When choosing a coaxial cable, it’s important to consider factors such as impedance, attenuation, shielding, and bandwidth. By understanding the basics of coaxial cables and choosing a quality product from a reputable manufacturer, you can ensure reliable and efficient signal transmission in your electronic devices.

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The Benefits of Using LMR 400 Coaxial Cable for Your Communication Needs

Posted on March 17, 2023March 17, 2023 by Bravo Satcom

Coaxial cable is an essential component in various communication applications, such as radio broadcasting, wireless networking, and satellite communication. It allows the transmission of high-frequency signals with minimal interference and loss of quality. One of the most popular types of coaxial cable in the market is LMR 400, which stands for “Low Loss, Mobile Radio 400.” This article aims to explore the advantages of using LMR 400 coaxial cable and how it can improve your communication system. We will also introduce Bravo Satcom, a trusted supplier of electronic equipment based in the UAE that offers LMR 400 and other products for different industries.

Advantages of LMR 400 Coaxial Cable:

Low Loss: LMR 400 has a low attenuation rate, which means that it can transmit signals over long distances without significant loss of power or quality. This feature is crucial in applications that require reliable and consistent communication, such as emergency services, military operations, and broadcasting.
High Frequency Range: LMR 400 can handle frequencies up to 6 GHz, making it suitable for various types of radios, antennas, and other wireless devices. It can also support multiple signals simultaneously, which is useful for systems that require high bandwidth or data transfer rates.
Weatherproof and Durable: LMR 400 has a robust and flexible outer jacket that can withstand harsh weather conditions, UV radiation, and physical damage. It also has excellent resistance to corrosion and moisture, which makes it ideal for outdoor installations and long-term use.
Easy Installation: LMR 400 is easy to terminate and connect, thanks to its standard connectors and compatibility with most RF equipment. It also requires minimal maintenance and adjustment, which saves time and resources for operators.

Equivalent to LMR 400: If you’re looking for an alternative to LMR 400, some comparable coaxial cables are:

RG-213: A thicker and more affordable cable than LMR 400, but with higher attenuation and lower frequency range (up to 4 GHz).
LMR 240: A lighter and more flexible cable than LMR 400, but with higher attenuation and lower power handling (up to 3 GHz and 300 watts).
LMR 600: A thicker and more expensive cable than LMR 400, but with lower attenuation and higher power handling (up to 6 GHz and 2.5 kW).

Maximum Distance for LMR 400: The maximum distance that LMR 400 can transmit signals depends on several factors, such as the frequency, power, and environmental conditions. However, as a general rule, LMR 400 can maintain a signal strength of -85 dBm over a distance of 500 meters for a frequency of 400 MHz. This distance can vary depending on the variables mentioned above.

Wattage for LMR 400: LMR 400 can handle up to 2 kW of power at a frequency of 30 MHz. For higher frequencies, the maximum power handling decreases, but it still exceeds most applications’ requirements. For example, LMR 400 can handle 600 watts at 400 MHz and 200 watts at 2 GHz.

VHF or UHF for 400 MHz: 400 MHz is considered a UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band, which covers frequencies between 300 MHz and 3 GHz. VHF (Very High Frequency) band, on the other hand, ranges from 30 MHz to 300 MHz.

Conclusion: LMR 400 coaxial cable

is a versatile and reliable solution for your communication needs. Its low loss, high frequency range, weatherproof, and easy installation features make it an ideal choice for various industries, such as aviation, maritime, public safety, and telecommunications. Moreover, its compatibility with standard connectors and equipment makes it a cost-effective option for upgrading or expanding your existing systems.

If you’re looking for a trusted supplier of LMR 400 coaxial cable and other electronic equipment, look no further than Bravo Satcom. Based in the UAE, Bravo Satcom offers a wide range of products and services for different industries, including aviation, defense, oil and gas, and hospitality. Their team of experts can provide customized solutions to meet your specific needs, from design and installation to maintenance and support.

Contact Bravo Satcom today to learn more about their products and services. You can reach them at [email protected] or call them at +971 56 743 1339. Upgrade your communication system with LMR 400 coaxial cable and Bravo Satcom today.