Types of Coaxial Cables

Coaxial cable can carry digital signals for the internet and other new technology as well as cable television. Some different types of coaxial cable have different uses in residential or commercial projects.

Hard-Line Coaxial Cable

Hardline cable is often used for high signal strength applications, for example, in radio transmitters or other devices. 

Hardline is typically up to or more than half an inch thick. Those who need a hard line for heavy-duty signal transmission can find it in a variety of popular brands where manufacturers produce this kind of coaxial cable for specialized kinds of installations, with specific properties and capacities.

RG6 Coaxial Cable

RG6 coaxial cable is one of the most familiar kinds of cable used for relaying cable TV and other signals. RG stands for “radio guide” and references the capacity of the cable. 

However, as consumer advocates have pointed out, an RG rating does not often accurately indicate the overall quality of the cable or the materials that it is made with. 

Since RG6 provides for High Definition signals, techs from cable companies are replacing a lot of RG5 cable with RG6 in the homes of clients. 

As the current standard, RG6 is a desirable cable rating for today’s home and commercial entertainment systems. 

RG6 comes in several varieties, some of which have more waterproofing for underwater or moisture-prone areas of installation.

Semi-Rigid Coaxial Cable

This type of coaxial cable has a harder shielding metal and is less flexible and less versatile for installation. It may be useful in situations where cable does not have to snake around various obstacles.

Tri-axial Coaxial Cable

This kind of extra-strength cable has an additional shield layer to discourage electromagnetic interference. This can be helpful in areas where the cable may be vulnerable to high-strength electromagnetic forces.

Twin-Axial Cable

This paired cable represents another alternative to conventional coaxial cable for a number of different types of installations.

Those dealing with coaxial cable applications must guard against “leakage” where problems with the cable cause signal strength to deteriorate and leak into the surrounding area. 

Cable leaks are something that cable companies pay attention to within the public system of coaxial cable that takes cable TV signals to individual clients.