
Coax Cable

Coaxial cable, often referred to simply as coax, is widely used for transmitting electrical signals, especially for high frequency signal transmission including cable television, internet, and radio frequency signals. The coaxial design features an inner conductor, usually made of copper wire or copper clad steel, surrounded by a dielectric insulator. This dielectric layer is then wrapped in an outer conductor, often made of metal foil or a metal braid, to serve as a shield layer against electromagnetic interference. An insulating jacket covers the entire assembly to protect it and to prevent corrosion.
This construction provides several advantages. The presence of inner and outer conductors separated by a dielectric insulator provides characteristic impedance, which is crucial for preserving the quality of the transmitted electrical signal. The shielded design minimizes signal leakage and also protects against outside signal interference, including electromagnetic fields from other cables or metal objects.
In commercial settings such as commercial radio broadcast towers and satellite antenna facilities, the demand for coax cables that can handle high power and higher frequencies is often met with specially designed coaxial cable assemblies. These may include features like tuned slots for specific frequencies and straight-line feeds to ensure that the signal exists uniformly across the transmission lines.
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More Information about Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cables are used in a wide range of applications, from short coaxial cables connecting home electronics to long cables laid by telephone companies. They are found in satellite television setups, cable TV, data centers, and even in military equipment for secure and reliable signal transmission. The cables can come with various types of connectors, such as F-type connectors for cable TV or threaded Neill-Concelman (TNC) and QMA connectors for higher frequencies.
Coaxial cables also come in different types and sizes, like RG-59 and RG-6, each with its own set of electrical characteristics suited for specific uses. For example, RG-6 cable is commonly used for cable television and internet connections, as it is designed to transmit data quickly and with minimal loss.
FAQs
What types of coaxial cable can transmit a video signal?
Several types of coaxial cables are commonly used to transmit video signals. The most popular types include: RG-59, RG-6, RG-11, RG-58, Mini Coax and SDI cables.
What do triaxial cable carry signals for?
Triaxial cables are specialized types of coaxial cables that have an additional layer of shielding compared to regular coaxial cables. This extra shield provides superior isolation against interference and signal leakage, making triaxial cables ideal for carrying sensitive and high-frequency signals.
Waterproofing Coax Connections
Improper waterproofing on coax cable connections accounts for the majority of communication failures. In order to ensure a proper seal is made, it is important to use products that are intended for this type of application. Waterproofing kits include 3M vinyl electrical tape, referred to as Tem Flex, and butyl mastic adhesive, which is what actually provides the waterproofing and protection for the connection itself.
3 Steps to Waterproof Coax Connections:
Step 1: Take the 3M electrical tape and begin to apply the electrical tape at least one inch outside of the factory heat shrink cable. Wrap the electrical tape around the connection overlapping each time until you reach the other side of the connection.
Step 2: Take the butyl mastic adhesive and begin to apply it one inch past the electrical tape. When applying the butyl mastic adhesive, make sure to pull it very tightly around the connection as you continue overlapping each time around until you reach the other side of the connection. Butyl basic adhesive is a clay like substance that must be worked until it becomes a solid unit.
Step 3: The last step in making this connection is to once again, use the vinyl electrical tape. The purpose of this step is to simply provide protection for the butyl mastic adhesive itself. Begin to apply the electrical tape one inch outside the butyl mastic. Wrap the electrical tape around the connection overlapping each time until you reach one inch past the butyl mastic on the other side. You now have a completely waterproof and UV resistant connection that will last for years to come.