Coaxial cables were initially designed for military installations requiring transmission of radio frequency signals, reducing the issue of electromagnetic interference in the twisted pair. Most coaxial cables have a prefix of RG which means radio gauge, a mode of measurement of the thickness of the cable, a system developed for military manuals for the military. Coaxial cable is still used in military, aerodynamics, commercial and domestic purposes. They deliver a low loss of signal over the distance in comparison o twisted pairs. Till day, when fiber optic is offering a higher bandwidth coaxial cable remains the most popular choice and standard for domestic application due to their longer lifetime, durability, easy installation, and longer lifetime.
Importance of Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cables are more suited for audio and video signal transmission and even internet signals in comparison to twisted pairs as they provide better signal quality. However, they are also preferred over optic fiber which offers higher bandwidth, and even better signal quality and transmission of signal over a longer distance as they are more durable, easier to install, and less expensive. The durability of coaxial cable is credited not only to the external insulation jacket but the overall design which is geometrically designed to offer more flexibility and durability. For networking, you can easily install a splitter to divide and deliver the signals to more than one device. It is also very easy to fix a broken coaxial cable. Read here how o fix a broken coaxial cable.
Coaxial Cabled Design
Coaxial cables are so commonly used in domestic installations that they have become a common sight. Copper is the most affordable, durable conductor used in most wires and cables. Coaxial cable also has a copper core just like twisted pair, however, the core is wrapped by several shielding and insulating layers to prevent external and internal interference to provide a better signal quality. They were designed to reduce the issue of electromagnetic interference in the twisted pair that compromised the signal quality. Sharing the same geometric central axis reduced interference from the electromagnetic field generated inside the cable, and heavy shielding by non-conducting material reduced environmental interference. Hence coaxial cables can deliver higher quality signals.
TV and internet connections
Coaxial cables are suitable for the conduction of both TV and internet data signals. They are used internationally by cable operators, telephone companies, and internet service providers for transferring audio and video signals and internet data. They are considered more suitable for domestic uses due to their durability in comparison the optic fiber. They are capable of delivering the best signals at a comparatively cheaper price.
All coaxial cables used as a standard for domestic installations have an impedance of 75 Ohms. The RG-6 cable is considered ideal for most tv connections including CATV, satellite, TV antenna, and even internet connection, however for HDTV RG-11 is better suited. R-11 offers more space for signal transfer as it has a higher gauge.
Coaxial cable connector
There is a chance of high signal loss if the connector at the end of the cable is not installed properly. Ensuring a sturdy connection is important. The most preferred connector for coaxial cables is the BNC connector, however, it is important to find the right size of the connector to prevent a significant signal loss at the point of connection.