Coaxial cable is well known in the field of electronics and mechanics. It possesses a variety of types and applications. Among these types, RG-8U and LMR-400 are the most common and popular ones.
Does it always seem to be a matter of debate that what is the best choice for You?.
If you are also facing confusion to decide what is a better coaxial cable choice for you between RG-8U and LMR 400 then follow this article till the end. It will definitely help to clear your confusion and enhance your perception
What is the coaxial cable?
Before starting our main topic, let’s 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.
Applications of coaxial cable:
The common use and applications of coaxial cables are mentioned as follows ● Used to carry high-frequency signals
- Used in broadband internet networking cables
- Used in connecting radio transmitters and receivers ( to its antennas)
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)
Among all the types of coaxial cables, RG-8U and LMR400 are the most commonly used coaxial wires with a variety of applications:
RG-8U vs LMR 400 :
As mentioned previously that coaxial wires are of different types and standards but we only focus our writings on these two types i.e RG-8u and LMR 400. The description and specifications of these two types of coaxial wires are mentioned in detail to help you to decide what is best for your purpose. Let’s begin.
RG-8U coaxial cable:
RG-8U is the most common type of coaxial cable. It is composed of polyethylene (PE) insulators with outer PVC jackets. It is used in a wide variety of residential and commercial applications. this RG-8U cable is more impressive and powerful than what the average user will require and demand.
Specifications:
The specifications of this coaxial wire may slightly change according to the company that manufactures it but generally, the specifications remain the same.
- Conductor: Bare copper wire
- Insulation color: Neutral
- Braid wire: TC wire
- Jacket color: black
- Insulation: Polyethylene
- Shielding: aluminum/ polyester foil
- Outer jacket: Standard PE
- Outside diameter: 2.17 mm
- Dielectric thickness: 7.2 mm
Applications:
- Used for Rf signal transmission
- Broadcast
- LAN and data transmission computer cables
- In carrying radio transmission
LMR400 coaxial cable:
LMR 400 is a low-loss coaxial cable. It provides high flexibility and a simplified connection. Structurally it is a 50-ohm coaxial cable. Its double-bonded foils provide an additional shielding effect and hence lower signal loss.
Specifications:
The specifications of this coaxial wire may slightly change according to the company that manufactures it but generally, the specifications remain the same.
- Diameter: 10.29 mm
- Outer Jacket: PVC
- Colour: Black
- Impedance: 50 -ohm
- Dielectric: 7.24 mm
Applications:
- Excellent choice for wifi and cellular use
- Used in cell phone boosters
- Ham radio
RG-8U vs LMR 400: What is best for You?
RG-8U and LMR-400 are very similar to one another when you look at them but once you cut it open you will notice the significant difference between them. Now how to know which type of coaxial wire is best for you? Here is the answer
RG-8U consist of a single braided shield so it does not give 100% coverage whereas
LMR-400 consists of foil shields and a second shield made up of braided wire so you will experience 100% coverage
LMR-400 was made to replace low-quality RG-8 wires as LR-400 offers high flexibility and a simplified connection with the lowest signal loss. Generally, LMR-400 can be used in each and every application where the low loss of signals is required.
Final Word:
The choice of best coaxial between RG-8U and LMR-400 greatly depends upon the application and your targeted purpose. Both these types of coaxial wires have their own
specifications and applications. In the light of remarks and reviews, it is justified to say that LMR-400 is a step forward then RG-8U. LMR-400 is preferred more and proved to be a good choice because it provides 100% network coverage. Also, the composition of LMR-400 is another plus point that highlights its specificity over RG-8U
