Coaxial cable is the means by which your cellular signal moves between the exterior antenna and the interior
antenna or the cellular device if you have a 'direct-connect'.
As quickly as a signal enters the coaxial cable, it begins a process called attenuation. Signal is
lost all along the length of every type of coaxial cable. The key is to 'match' the cable's capabilities with the distance
that must be covered. It is possible to lose all of the signal captured at the exterior antenna.
Some cables will lose a great deal of signal over 100', but are great to use for a very short run.
Others maintain the signal quite well over a long distance, but are very difficult to manage in small areas. Basically,
the larger the diameter the better the 'loss factor'. Ultra low-loss cable are over 1/2" in diameter. Cable used
for tight areas and sharp turns are less than 1.4" in diameter.
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| Click for RG-58 Cable Data |
RG-58/LMR195
This cable is quite thin and flexible but has quite a high 'loss factor'. Use this over very short
distances (no more than 20' is recommended). At low frequency (850 MHz) this cable will lose approximately 11 dB over
100' and 16.5 dB at 1900 MHz.
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| Click for LMR240 Cable Data |
RG-8X/LMR240
Similar in size, the LMR240 brand has a better loss factor than the RG-8X. This cable is recommended
if you wish to connect your cell phone or laptop computer directly to a large, external antenna. 20' to 30' would be
the maximum distance recommended as you would quickly lose any advantage gained from the larger antenna.
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| Click for LMR400 Cable Data |
LMR400
An excellent choice for most installations using an amplifier and/or repeater system. This cable is
recommended for distances of 30' to 125' and will result in minimal signal losses. This cable is less flexible than
the LMR240 and will not allow you to make a tight bend. Planning is important.
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| Click for LMR600 Cable Data |
LMR600
This cable is usually not used in a residential setting. The cable is 1/2" in diameter and can be
difficult to manage. However, in the proper location, this cable will perform very well. Installations allowing
'straight-through' connections or wide arcs are necessary.
