Low-loss coaxial cable is designed to minimize signal loss when transmitting high-frequency electrical signals, particularly radio frequency (RF) signals. It is commonly used in applications where signal integrity is critical, such as in telecommunications, broadcasting, wireless communication, and high-frequency data transmission.

Below we discuss some of the main benefits and uses of low-loss coax and the differences among five popular types, from LMR-100 to LMR-600. We conclude with some unique features of ShowMeCables’ huge selection of these problem-solving products.

Low-Loss Coaxial Cable Benefits and Uses

Here are some key characteristics, benefits, and uses of low-loss coaxial cable:

  • Low Signal Loss: Low-loss coaxial cables are designed with special materials and construction techniques to minimize signal attenuation (loss) over long distances. This is crucial for high-frequency applications where signal degradation can lead to poor performance.
  • High Frequency Range: These cables are optimized for high-frequency transmission, typically ranging from hundreds of megahertz (MHz) to several gigahertz (GHz). They are used for applications like Wi-Fi, cellular networks, radar systems, and satellite communication.
  • RF Transmission: Low-loss coaxial cables are commonly used in RF transmission systems, including antennas, feedlines, and signal distribution networks. They maintain signal integrity and ensure minimal loss over the cable length.
  • Broadband Applications: They are suitable for broadband applications due to their ability to carry a wide range of frequencies efficiently. This makes them ideal for distributing television signals, internet connections, and other data services.
  • Outdoor and Harsh Environments: Low-loss coaxial cables are often designed to be weather-resistant and durable, making them suitable for outdoor and harsh environmental conditions. They are commonly used for connecting antennas on rooftops and cell towers.
  • Variety of Connectors: They are available with a wide range of connectors to suit different applications, making them adaptable to various devices and systems.
  • Reduced Interference: These cables are designed with shielding to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), ensuring clean signal transmission.
  • Long Transmission Distances: Low-loss coaxial cables can transmit signals over relatively long distances without significant signal degradation. This makes them suitable for point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communication links.
  • Reliability: Due to their low-loss properties and durability, low-loss coaxial cables are known for their reliability in critical applications.

Some Popular Types of Low-Loss Coaxial Cable

Low-loss coaxial cables, such as LMR-100 and LMR-400, differ in terms of their specifications, including their diameter, attenuation, and applications. Here’s a comparison of five popular types of these cables, with links to ShowMeCables’ offerings:

LMR-100:

  • Diameter: Approximately 0.1 inches (2.54 mm)
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Attenuation: Varies with frequency but generally higher than larger cables like LMR-400
  • Applications: LMR-100 is a thin and flexible cable suitable for short-distance, low-power applications. It's often used in applications like Wi-Fi antennas, GPS devices, and small electronics.

LMR-195:

  • Diameter: Approximately 0.195 inches (4.95 mm)
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Attenuation: Moderate attenuation, suitable for moderate-length cable runs
  • Applications: LMR-195 is commonly used for short- to medium-distance RF and wireless communication applications, including Wi-Fi networks, cellular boosters, and RF test equipment.

LMR-240:

  • Diameter: Approximately 0.24 inches (6.1 mm)
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Attenuation: Lower attenuation compared to LMR-195, suitable for longer cable runs
  • Applications: LMR-240 is often chosen for medium-distance RF communication links, wireless LANs, and other applications requiring good signal integrity and moderate flexibility.

LMR-400: and LMR-400 Ultraflex

  • Diameter: Approximately 0.4 inches (10.3 mm)
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Attenuation: Lower attenuation compared to LMR-240, making it suitable for longer cable runs and higher-frequency applications
  • Flexibility: LMR-400 Ultraflex has a stranded center conductor and a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) jacket for added flexibility.
  • Applications: LMR-400 is widely used in professional RF and wireless communication systems, including base station connections, satellite communications, and high-power RF transmission.

LMR-600:

  • Diameter: Approximately 0.6 inches (15.24 mm)
  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Attenuation: Very low attenuation, making it suitable for long-distance, high-power applications
  • Applications: LMR-600 is typically used in high-power RF systems, large-scale antennas, and long-distance point-to-point links.

Low-Loss Coax Cables from ShowMeCables

If you’re looking for coax cable that has both high performance and low loss over distance, we offer a full range for Wi-Fi and microwave applications. We stock five different categories based on shielding. Though they are light and flexible, their durable polyethylene or TPE jackets allow for both indoor and outdoor use.

Key Features:

  • Your Length – 16 length options from 8 inches to 200 feet
  • Your Connector – 7 connector types in 28 different combinations
  • Your Form Factor – Straight, right-angle, and/or bulkhead
  • Your Environment – Jacket choices from standard to Ultraflex TPE

Applications:

Wi-Fi, antenna cables, mobile antennas, patch cables, jumper cables, WLL, GPS, WLAN, LMR, WISP, WiMax, SCADA, ham radios, more

Our low-loss cable assemblies are in stock and available with same-day shipping. In-stock products ordered before 5 p.m. ET ship the same day. Flat-rate UPS ground shipping is only $8.99.

Questions? Contact our U.S.-based customer service at +1 (888) 519-9505, email us or chat.