Coaxial cables are also known as Rf cables or radio frequency cables. The use of coaxial cables in the installation of a radio system is a key step towards advancement in technology without any major troubleshooting conditions.
Description of coaxial cable
In accordance with our main topic, it’s necessary to have a general introduction to coaxial cable. Coax or coaxial cable is a type of electrical cable consisting of an inner conductor or enveloped by a concentric conducting shield, with the two separated by an insulating material. Many coaxial cables also have a defensive outer coat or sheath. The term “ Coaxial” applies to the inner conductor and the outlying shield sharing a geometric axis.
Types of Coaxial cable;
More than 50 types/ standards of Coaxial cables are available that are used for a variety of purposes and applications. Definitely, you may be surprised with the fact that how can coaxial cable show so much diversity and variety but the truth is that these standards and types of coaxial cable depend on the following factors
- Impedance( ohms)
- Core thickness (mm)
- Dielectric
- Outside diameter
- Shield
- Maximum attenuation ( Hz)
Time microwave cables offer the several variety and standard of coaxial tables along with the specifications mentioned with every product
Applications of coaxial cable in the radio system
The applications of coaxial cable specifically in the installation of the radio system are mentioned as follows.
- It is used as transmission lines for radio frequency signals
- Coaxial cables are used in feedlines connecting radio transmitters and receivers to their antennas
- It is utilized in the distribution of cable television signals.
Impact of coaxial cable in radio system development
The quality and reliability of connector installations on coaxial cable installation lines are the key factors to success in any wireless system.
It is a fact that the installation of connectors is s difficult process that increases the risk of affecting the quality and reliability of the overall system.
Troubleshooting in the installation of radio system:
The installation of connectors in the radio system is difficult due to following troubleshooting situations.
1 Unsuppportive weather conditions
During the installation of Rf transmission lines at the outdoor site, weather conditions like wind, rain, and snow give a challenge to soldering equipment
2 Lack of electric supply
Due to lack of electrical source, gas or butane fire soldering equipment are the only resource of choice. Unfortunately, these devices are not capable of generating heat as electrical-powered devices.
3 Low-light conditions
For indoor installations of radio systems like distributed antenna systems in buildings. the installers need to work on a ladder in congested spaces with dim or low light conditions.
How to resolve this troubleshooting?
The above-mentioned troubleshooting situations affect the efficacy of a system. These issues need to be overcome in order to ensure reliable connector installations and for better performance.
The installation process can be simplified with the use of non-solder connectors. and the use of appropriate connection tools and equipment.
Non-solder connectors along with coaxial cables
The specific non-solder connectors for a specific standard of coaxial cables are mentioned as follows
- For LMR low loss 50 ohm coaxial cables, such non-solder connectors are designed that use silver or gold plated beryllium spring finger contact with center conductors. Such connectors don’t need soldering and can be installed under all field conditions.
- For smaller size coaxial cables like LMR 400 (⅜’) or LMR 600 (1 / 2’’), a connector requires a crimp style outer contact attachment ring.
- For larger cables like LMR 900 DB, connectors with a larger clamp method of attachment are needed.
Techniques that ensure reliability and good connection
The poor installation of connectors is one of the major causes of voltage standing wave-ration problems. Therefore following mentioned techniques help to ensure a good connection with long-term reliability.
For the installation of EZ connectors on the LMR-900 coaxial cable, the following process should be followed
- Cut the cable in square
- Slide the gasket and backnut on the table
- Strip the cable end using the EZ strip tool by inserting the cable into the proper end of the tool.
- Fix the gland washer on the end of the cable and over the braid.
- Extend the braid over the gland washer.
- Slide the collar over the foil.
- Press spring “ finger end ” of connector pin assembly into the hollow center conductor
- Bring up the backnut and gasket
- Screw the connector head onto the backnut and tighten it with proper size wrenches until the gasket is almost fully compressed.
Bottom line:
It is a fact that the installation of connectors is such a difficult process that creates complications for installers and the company. However, it can be resolved by the use of appropriate non-soldering connectors along with the specific types of coaxial cables. Certain techniques can also be followed to ensure the error-free process of installation.
