Everything you need to know about RG-6, LMR-400, impedance, connectors & troubleshooting.
Everything you need to know about RG-6, LMR-400, impedance, connectors & troubleshooting.
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Published by Wassalat Technical Team
Whether you're setting up a professional broadcasting system, installing CCTV cameras, deploying wireless networks, or building high-speed internet infrastructure, coaxial cables remain the backbone of reliable signal transmission. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about coaxial cables—from basic principles to advanced selection and installation techniques used by industry professionals.
A coaxial cable (commonly called "coax") is a type of electrical cable that transmits high-frequency signals with minimal signal loss and interference. It consists of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer protective jacket—all sharing the same axis (hence "co-axial").
Coaxial cables are the preferred choice for transmitting:
Coaxial cables transmit signals through electromagnetic wave propagation. Here's how it works:
The key to coax performance is its balanced impedance and shielding effectiveness, which prevent signal degradation even over long distances.
Every coaxial cable consists of four main layers, each serving a critical purpose:
| Layer | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Center Conductor | Copper, Copper-Clad Steel (CCS), or Aluminum | Carries the electrical signal |
| Dielectric Insulation | Polyethylene (PE), Foam PE, or PTFE (Teflon) | Maintains conductor position and electrical properties |
| Metallic Shield | Copper Braid, Aluminum Foil, or Solid Copper | Blocks electromagnetic interference (EMI/RFI) |
| Outer Jacket | PVC, PE, or Plenum-rated Fire Retardant | Protects against physical damage and environmental factors |
There are many coaxial cable types, each designed for specific applications. Here are the most common:
Impedance: 75Ω | Common Uses: Satellite TV, Cable TV, Broadband Internet, CCTV
RG-6 is the most common coaxial cable for residential and commercial video applications. It has a thicker center conductor than RG-59, providing better signal quality over longer distances.
Impedance: 75Ω | Common Uses: Short-distance CCTV, Analog Video, Patch Cables
RG-59 is thinner and more flexible than RG-6. It's ideal for short video runs (under 100 feet) where flexibility is important.
Impedance: 50Ω | Common Uses: Radio Communications, Antenna Connections, Laboratory Equipment
RG-58 is commonly used in RF applications and radio communications where 50Ω impedance is required.
Impedance: 75Ω | Common Uses: Long-distance Video Transmission, Main Trunk Lines
RG-11 has a thicker conductor and lower signal loss than RG-6, making it ideal for long cable runs (over 200 feet).
Impedance: 50Ω | Common Uses: Wireless Antenna Feeds, Microwave Transmission, WISP Networks
LMR-400 is a low-loss 50Ω cable popular in wireless communications for its excellent performance at high frequencies.
Impedance: 50Ω | Common Uses: Short Antenna Feeds, WiFi, IoT Devices
A thinner, more flexible version of LMR cables for shorter runs.
Impedance: 50Ω | Common Uses: Outdoor Antenna Feeds, Base Station Connections
Impedance: 50Ω | Common Uses: High-Power Transmissions, Cellular Base Stations
| Cable Type | Impedance | Max Frequency | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| RG-59 | 75Ω | 1 GHz | Short CCTV, Video |
| RG-6 | 75Ω | 3 GHz | CATV, Satellite, Internet |
| RG-11 | 75Ω | 3 GHz | Long-distance Video |
| RG-58 | 50Ω | 1 GHz | Radio, RF Testing |
| LMR-195 | 50Ω | 5 GHz | WiFi, IoT, Short Feeds |
| LMR-240 | 50Ω | 5.8 GHz | Outdoor Antenna Feeds |
| LMR-400 | 50Ω | 6 GHz | Wireless, WISP, Microwave |
| LMR-600 | 50Ω | 8 GHz | Base Stations, High Power |
Impedance is the most critical specification for coaxial cables. Using the wrong impedance significantly degrades signal quality.
When selecting coaxial cables, evaluate these critical parameters:
Signal loss is measured in decibels (dB) per 100 feet at a specific frequency. Lower attenuation = better performance.
| Cable | Loss at 100 MHz | Loss at 400 MHz | Loss at 1 GHz |
|---|---|---|---|
| RG-59 | 4.6 dB | 9.2 dB | 15.0 dB |
| RG-6 | 2.5 dB | 5.2 dB | 8.5 dB |
| RG-11 | 1.6 dB | 3.3 dB | 5.4 dB |
| LMR-195 | 3.5 dB | 7.0 dB | 11.5 dB |
| LMR-240 | 2.5 dB | 5.1 dB | 8.4 dB |
| LMR-400 | 1.5 dB | 3.0 dB | 5.0 dB |
| LMR-600 | 1.0 dB | 2.0 dB | 3.3 dB |
Better shielding prevents interference from external sources. Common shielding types:
Each cable type has a maximum frequency limit. Exceeding this causes excessive signal loss.
Choosing the right connector is as important as selecting the cable itself. Here are the most common coaxial connectors:
Impedance: 50Ω or 75Ω | Uses: Video, RF Testing, Radios, CCTV
BNC connectors are quick-connect with a bayonet locking mechanism. They're common in broadcast video and RF equipment.
Impedance: 75Ω | Uses: Satellite TV, Cable TV, Broadband Internet
F-Type connectors are the standard for residential and commercial video applications. They're simple to install and reliable.
Impedance: 50Ω | Uses: Wireless Antennas, Microwave, Telecom
N-Type connectors are threaded for secure connections. They're the professional standard for outdoor RF installations.
Impedance: 50Ω | Uses: WiFi Routers, Cellular Devices, IoT
Small form-factor connectors for compact devices and high-frequency applications up to 18 GHz.
Impedance: 50Ω | Uses: Military, Aerospace, High-vibration Environments
Threaded version of BNC with better weather resistance and vibration tolerance.
Impedance: 50Ω | Uses: Amateur Radio, Older RF Equipment
Older standard for RF applications, still common in ham radio.
Impedance: 50Ω | Uses: WiFi Devices, Consumer Routers
A variation of SMA used in consumer wireless equipment to prevent mismatching.
| Connector | Impedance | Max Frequency | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| BNC | 50/75Ω | 4 GHz | Video, RF Testing |
| F-Type | 75Ω | 3 GHz | CATV, Satellite |
| N-Type | 50Ω | 11 GHz | Wireless, Telecom |
| SMA | 50Ω | 18 GHz | WiFi, IoT, Cellular |
| TNC | 50Ω | 11 GHz | Military, Aerospace |
| UHF | 50Ω | 300 MHz | Amateur Radio |
Ensure the cable supports the operating frequency of your equipment:
Match your equipment's connector type. Professional installations often use N-Type for outdoor antennas and BNC for video equipment.
Sharp bends can damage the cable and alter impedance. Follow the manufacturer's bend radius specifications (typically 6–10 times the cable diameter).
Professional coaxial strippers ensure clean, precise cuts without damaging the center conductor.
Support cables every 3–5 feet to prevent sagging and stress on connectors.
RG-6 is the standard for residential and commercial TV distribution. It carries video and data signals from the provider to the set-top box or modem.
RG-6 with quad shielding is recommended to prevent signal loss and interference from satellite dishes.
RG-59 for short runs (under 100 feet) and RG-6 for longer CCTV runs. Video baluns can convert coax to twisted pair for network cameras.
LMR-400, LMR-600, and similar low-loss cables are used to connect wireless antennas to indoor equipment in WISP installations.
50Ω coax (RG-58, RG-8, LMR-400) is used for amateur radio, two-way radios, and public safety communications.
75Ω coax (RG-6, RG-11, Belden 1694A) is used for studio video, SDI transmissions, and broadcast equipment.
50Ω and 75Ω cables are used in telecom infrastructure for connecting antennas, base stations, and test equipment.
LMR-195 and RG-58 are common for IoT devices, sensors, and short-range wireless applications.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Weak Signal | Excessive cable length, low-quality cable | Upgrade to lower-loss cable (e.g., RG-11 or LMR-400), reduce cable length |
| Interference / Static | Poor shielding, damaged cable | Use double-shielded or quad-shielded cable, replace damaged sections |
| No Signal | Broken center conductor, loose connector | Check connections, test continuity, replace cable if damaged |
| Water Ingress | Unsealed outdoor connections | Use weatherproof connectors, apply sealing tape, inspect regularly |
| Signal Dropouts | Loose connections, cable damage | Re-terminate connectors, inspect cable for kinks or cuts |
| Reflections / Ghosting | Impedance mismatch | Use correct impedance cable (50Ω or 75Ω), install impedance matching adapters |
"Coaxial" means "sharing the same axis." In a coaxial cable, the center conductor and outer shield share the same centerline.
50Ω cables are used for RF and wireless applications (antennas, radios). 75Ω cables are used for video and data transmission (CCTV, TV, CATV).
For CCTV, RG-6 is recommended for runs over 100 feet. RG-59 works for shorter distances (under 100 feet) and is more flexible.
No. Video equipment expects 75Ω impedance. Using 50Ω will cause signal reflections and poor video quality.
This depends on the cable type and frequency. RG-6 can run up to 200 feet for video, LMR-400 up to 300 feet for wireless, and fiber optics for longer distances.
LMR-400, LMR-600, and RG-6 with PE (polyethylene) jackets are excellent for outdoor use due to UV resistance and weather protection.
RG-6 has a thicker center conductor and better shielding, allowing longer runs and higher frequencies. RG-59 is thinner, more flexible, and suitable for short runs.
Quad-shield cables have four layers of shielding (two foil + two braid), providing maximum protection against interference.
Use a coaxial stripper to remove the jacket, fold back the shielding, and attach a compression or crimp connector.
Yes, using F-Type barrel connectors or BNC couplers. Avoid splicing without proper connectors as it causes signal loss.
Plenum-rated cable has a fire-retardant jacket that produces less toxic smoke when burned. It's required for installations in air circulation spaces (above drop ceilings).
Common causes include: excessive cable length, low-quality cable, damaged connectors, water ingress, or interference from nearby cables.
Whether you need RG-6 for your home theater, LMR-400 for your wireless network, or custom-length assemblies for professional installations, we've got you covered.
Explore our complete range of high-quality coaxial cables, connectors, and accessories:
Last Updated: July 2026
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