Classics Series, Coaxial Cables (RF)

Coaxial cables, also known as RF (radio frequency) cables, are a type of electrical cable used for transmitting high-frequency signals and data. They consist of an inner conductor, surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer protective jacket. The inner conductor, typically made of copper or aluminum, carries the signal and is surrounded by a dielectric insulating material. This insulating layer helps maintain the integrity of the signal by preventing it from escaping or being interfered with. The dielectric material can be solid or porous, depending on the specific application requirements. The metallic shield, usually made of copper or aluminum, surrounds the dielectric layer and helps to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). It acts as a barrier, preventing external signals from entering the cable and interfering with the transmitted signal. The outer protective jacket is the final layer of the coaxial cable, providing mechanical strength, protection against environmental factors, and insulation. It is typically made of materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PE (polyethylene). Coaxial cables are widely used in various applications that require the transmission of high-frequency signals, such as telecommunications, cable television, computer networks, and RF instrumentation. They offer several advantages over other types of cables, including low signal loss, high bandwidth capabilities, and immunity to noise and interference. The performance of a coaxial cable is determined by its impedance, which is the measure of resistance to the flow of electrical energy. Common impedance values for coaxial cables include 50 ohms and 75 ohms, depending on the application. Different types of coaxial cables are available to meet specific application requirements. For example, RG-6 and RG-59 are commonly used in cable TV and satellite installations, while RG-8 and LMR-400 are popular choices for high-power RF applications. In summary, coaxial cables, or RF cables, are specialized electrical cables designed for transmitting high-frequency signals. They consist of an inner conductor, a dielectric insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer protective jacket. Coaxial cables offer low signal loss, high bandwidth capabilities, and immunity to noise and interference, making them suitable for various applications in telecommunications, broadcasting, and networking.