What is a Coaxial Cable?
A coaxial cable is a type of radio frequency (RF) transmission cable used to carry television, satellite, and data signals with minimal signal loss and strong protection against electromagnetic interference.
Its unique design places the inner conductor and shielding along the same axis, ensuring stable impedance and reliable signal transmission.
Coaxial cables are widely used in:
- satellite TV installations
- terrestrial television systems
- CATV networks
- CCTV systems
- RF distribution networks in commercial buildings and hotels
For professional installations in demanding environments, choosing a high-quality cable is essential. Premium coaxial cables manufactured by Kathrein are widely recognized for their reliability and performance in professional RF installations. 👉 See our available range of products, in the Kathrein coaxial cables category.
Structure of a Coaxial Cable
A high-quality coaxial cable consists of four main components.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Inner conductor | Carries the signal |
| Dielectric | Insulates the conductor |
| Shielding | Protects against interference |
| Outer jacket | Mechanical protection |
Inner Conductor
The inner conductor is usually made of:
- pure copper
- copper clad steel (CCS)
Professional installations typically use pure copper conductors because they provide lower signal loss and better conductivity.
Dielectric
The dielectric insulation is usually made of foam polyethylene (Foam PE).
It plays a critical role in:
- maintaining impedance stability
- reducing signal attenuation
- ensuring long-term cable performance.
Shielding
The shielding layer protects the signal from external electromagnetic interference.
Typical shielding structures include:
- aluminum foil
- braided shielding
Professional cables often feature triple or quadruple shielding for maximum protection.
Outer Jacket
The outer jacket protects the cable from:
- moisture
- UV radiation
- mechanical stress
Outdoor installations require UV-resistant materials.You can see our Company's recommended cable, type RG6 - LCD 115A++
Characteristic Impedance
Most television and satellite installations use 75 Ohm coaxial cables.
| Impedance | Application |
|---|---|
| 75 Ohm | television and satellite systems |
| 50 Ohm | RF communication equipment |
Using the wrong impedance may cause:
- signal reflections
- signal loss
- degraded picture quality
Types of Coaxial Cables
Several types of coaxial cables are commonly used in RF installations.
| Cable Type | Typical Application |
|---|---|
| RG6 | satellite and terrestrial TV |
| RG59 | CCTV systems |
| RG11 | long distance installations |
RG6 Coaxial Cable
RG6 is the most widely used coaxial cable in residential and commercial television installations.
It is commonly used in:
- home satellite systems
- apartment buildings
- small RF distribution systems
RG11 Coaxial Cable
RG11 cables are designed for long cable runs where lower signal attenuation is required.
Typical applications include:
- hotels
- large buildings
- central distribution systems
👉 For a detailed comparison, read the RG6 vs RG11 guide
Signal Loss in Coaxial Cables
Signal attenuation increases as frequency rises.
| Frequency | Typical RG6 Loss (per 100m) |
|---|---|
| 200 MHz | ~5 dB |
| 800 MHz | ~15 dB |
| 2150 MHz | ~30 dB |
The quality of the cable plays a major role in minimizing signal loss.
High-quality cables such as those produced by Kathrein are engineered to deliver low attenuation even at high satellite IF frequencies.
LTE and 5G Interference
Modern urban environments contain numerous sources of RF interference.
These include:
- LTE cellular networks
- 5G base stations
- photovoltaic inverters
- wireless networks
Poor cable shielding may cause:
- pixelation
- signal dropouts
- interference in TV reception
Professional installers often choose cables with advanced shielding, such as those manufactured by Kathrein, to ensure stable signal transmission.
How to Choose the Right Antenna Cable
Selecting the right coaxial cable depends on several factors.
Cable Length
Longer cable runs require lower attenuation cables such as RG11.
Installation Environment
Outdoor installations require weather-resistant cables with UV-protected jackets.
Operating Frequency
Satellite systems operate at high frequencies and require high-quality RF cables.
Build Quality
The construction quality of the cable significantly affects performance and durability.
Professional installers often rely on cables from Kathrein, which are designed to meet strict European RF standards.
Certifications and Standards
Professional coaxial cables must comply with various industry standards.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| CE | European conformity certification |
| CPR | Construction Products Regulation |
| EN 50117 | RF cable standard |
| Class A | High shielding performance |
The coaxial cables produced by Kathrein meet strict European standards, making them suitable for demanding professional installations.
Why Professional Installers Choose Kathrein Cables
Reliable cabling infrastructure is essential for professional RF systems.
Coaxial cables from Kathrein are widely used because they offer:
- excellent signal performance
- low attenuation
- superior shielding against interference
- compliance with European standards
These features make them suitable for demanding applications such as:
- hotel installations
- apartment building distribution networks
- professional RF infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best coaxial cable for satellite installations?
RG6 coaxial cable with a pure copper conductor and triple shielding is typically recommended for satellite installations.
What is the difference between RG6 and RG11?
RG11 has lower signal attenuation and is better suited for longer cable runs.
What does Class A shielding mean?
Class A refers to a high level of shielding effectiveness against electromagnetic interference.
Conclusion
Coaxial cables play a critical role in modern television and RF installations.
The right cable choice affects:
- signal quality
- system reliability
- long-term performance
For professional installations, choosing high-quality cables such as those manufactured by Kathrein ensures optimal performance and reduced signal loss.
Related Technical Guides
Discover Kathrein Solutions for Professional Growth
Kathrein is a benchmark in technology and telecommunications, offering reliable solutions for communication networks. We support technicians, companies, and partners, helping them fully leverage technology with innovative, high-quality, and dependable solutions.
With Kathrein, technology becomes a tool for success and growth, ensuring efficient operation and continuous development of your network. ➡️Contact us today to learn how we can help you maximize your network’s potential with Kathrein solutions.
