Cut Sheet

Voice • Data • Video
184
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Terminating Coaxial Cable − Terminology
Parts of the Cable
Connectors
Center Conductor
This is the part of the cable that the data travels
on. RG-6 and RG-6 Quad have 18 AWG copper
coated steel wire, while RG-59 has a smaller 22
AWG center conductor.
Dielectric
Usually constructed
out of solid plastic
or a foam plastic,
this is used to
separate the
Center Conductor
from the shielding.
Foil
A thin foil shield is wrapped over
the dielectric which helps to prevent
high frequency noise from interfering
with the data signal.
Braid
The second part of the
shielding on coaxial cables,
braiding is
typically
made from
a number
of copper or
aluminum wires
woven together to form
a conductor around the
dielectric core. The braiding
prevents lower frequency
noise from interfering with
the data signal.
Jacket
Placed on the outside
of the cable to protect
all of the other internal
components of the wire
from the environment.
Push On (Best)
This connector provides the
same permanent install as the
compression connector, but does
not need a compression tool to
install. (Part #: ITC-6)
Crimp On (Better)
This connector works by pushing
the connector over the stripped end
of the RG-6 or RG-6 Quad coaxial
cable and using a special crimping
tool the connector is squeezed or
crimped onto the cable.
Twist On (Good)
The twist on connector threads
onto the stripped end of the
coaxial connector until it is fully
seated on the cable, this connector
requires no other tools.
Cable Types
RG-6 is the recommended standard cable for
use in satellite and cable television networks.
RG-6 loses only about 50% of the signal every
100 ft., due to its 18 AWG center conductor and
combination aluminum foil/aluminum braid shield.
RG-6 Quad has the same center conductor and
signal loss ratio as the RG-6, but features an
extra layer of shielding. This cable is optimal
for use where extra protection from outside
interference is needed.
RG-59 is no longer the
recommended standard
for cable or satellite
television networks,
due to its smaller
center conductor and
less shielding. This
combination results in
an 80-90% data loss
over 100 ft. span.
The most common type of coaxial
cable connector.
Compression (Professional)
The compression connector is approved
by cable and satellite providers because of
the permanent and water tight connection
it makes with the cable. Although this
connector creates a professional
quality connection it is easy
enough for anyone
to install.
(Part #: GDC-
6CM)