Coaxial Cable Attenuation and Selection Criteria

With all coaxial cables the loss of power/signal between the radio and antenna is identified as attenuation. It is defined in terms of decibels per unit length, and at a given frequency. The frequency used during operation, and attenuation are closely linked variables. The higher the frequency the more loss per foot. Since attenuation and frequency loss vary greatly by cable type, the higher your operating frequency the more critical your coax selection becomes. Some coaxial cable that loses .1 DB per foot at 300MHz will see attenuation of 2 DB per foot at 3GHz.

Times Microwave LMR400 is completely different than the cheap Chinese coax with poor copper alloys and variable dielectric resulting in transmission power loss. So where does all this lost power go? Badly made cables with substandard conductors loose power during transmissions causing them to overheat. With radio transmitters you’ll notice cheap coax heating up after several minutes of operation which is definitely not what you want.

Times Microwave technology uses a center conductor bonded with pure copper for the lowest transmission loss. The inner conductor is shielded by a high tech low loss foam dielectric separating it from the second transmission channel. The outer channel composed of metal tape and tinned copper braid serves as a ground. To achieve maximum transmission to antennas with lowest signal loss LMR-400 coax provides the best option.

The attenuation of coax cables increases greatly over a period of time for a number of reasons. The two main reasons are as a result of repeated flexing of the coax past the point of affecting the dielectric spacing, and moisture entry into the RF cable itself. Investing in higher quality cable is proven to result in less attenuation. The construction methods used and quality of material can result in cheaper coax looking the same as Time LMR-400 on the outside but having over 30% more attenuation over the length of the installation after 5 years. Balancing cost against desired service life is a consideration when installing or replacing coax. Lower quality cable “ages” faster. Attenuation increases as it is damaged easier and fails sooner.

The factors involved in getting a solid wireless signal throughout an area are many and varied. The primary system component that can help to extend your signal is the correct coax. The FCC regulates all wifi routers and adapters to ensure that all transmit the same amount of power. Only your coaxial cable and antenna can make a difference USAcoax and see the specials and deals available on Swiss Made Antennas and US made Times Microwave cable.

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