Coax Cable Assemblies (Cable with Connectors)

4 things to consider when selecting lightning protection for coax connected devices:

1. Frequency range. All lightning protectors offer a specific frequency range that they protect against. For example, a protector may offer 698 megahertz all the way up to 2.7 gigahertz of protection.
2. Connection type. The most common connector is N female, however, there are also N male, TNC or many other different types of connections. In some cases the protector offers bidirectional protection so the input and output can be reversed.
3. DC pass vs DC block type protectors. DC pass type protectors are used if power is needed at the antenna tower to power a particular device. It allows low voltage current to pass through the center pin of the coax cable to power the device. If no power is needed at the antenna tower, a DC block type protector is used, which would not allow any current to pass through the center pin of a coax connector.
4. Technology type. The most common and cost effective type of technology is gas tube protection. In most cases, it will last about five years. One thing to consider with gas tube protectors is that they can build up static electricity over time, and if that static electricity discharges, it can damage equipment. The second type of technology is coil inductors. Coil inductors offer very reliable protection against lightning strikes and heavy surges, as well as not degrading over time. They only need replacement with significant lightning strikes. There is no threat of static buildup with a coil inductor protector. The only real disadvantage of using coil inductor technology is the cost. Typically, they are about 30 to 40% more expensive than gas tube technology.

FAQ

How does coaxial cable function?

Coaxial cable is an electrical cable that transmits radio frequency (RF) signals from one point to another. This works by carrying data in the center conductor, while the surrounding layers prevent signal loss.