Coaxial Cable in Computer Networks: Types, Applications

Coaxial cable works by occupying a structured setup to carry electrical signals between devices. The central conductor, commonly copper or aluminum, is where the signal is carried at its core. The conductor is shielded with an insulating layer to keep the signal in its original form and not become influenced by interference.

The outermost part is made up of a metal shield, which also serves as a protection for the inner conductor from outside electromagnetic interference and groundings. The shield enables coaxial cables to carry high-frequency signals over long distances in an efficient way and make them suitable for applications such as television, internet, and telecommunication.

Here are the types of coaxial cable in computer networks:

1. Hardline coaxial cable

Hardline coaxial cable has a greater diameter with a copper or silver core conductor. Hardline coaxial cable is usually applied in high-frequency such as broadcasting and telecommunication.

2. Flexible coaxial cable

Flexible coaxial cables are highly pliable with an inner conductor that is covered by a flexible polymer. They are best suited to applications such as bending and motion.

3. Semi-rigid coaxial cable

Semi-rigid coaxial cable is covered in a solid copper outer jacket with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulation. This is utilized where little flexing is needed.

4. Formable coaxial cable

Formable coaxial cable is also identical to semi-rigid except that it has a flexible metal sheath rather than the rigid copper outer. The construction provides flexibility while retaining structural integrity.

5. Twinaxial cable

Twinaxial cable has two core conductors and an outer dielectric and core. It is used for digital and low-frequency video transmission.

6. Triaxial cable

Triaxial cable compares coaxial cable but with the addition of copper braid to add an extra layer of noise shielding. It adds extra bandwidth and is used in high-performance uses.

7. Rigid coaxial cable

Rigid coaxial cable is composed of two copper tubes, supported at fixed intervals, and cannot be bent. It is primarily used in TV and FM broadcasting systems where stability is crucial.

Knowing the connectors and technical details of coaxial cables is an essential step to picking the right cable for your network. Here, we describe the most common connector types along with specifications that define cable performance.

Common Coaxial Cable Connectors

Several types of connectors are used to terminate coaxial cables, each suited to specific applications and frequency ranges:

• Bayonet Neill-Concelman (BNC) Connector: Widely used in television, radio, and networking equipment, the BNC connector provides a quick connect/disconnect mechanism and is suitable for frequencies below 4 GHz.
• Threaded Neill-Concelman (TNC) Connector: Similar to the BNC but with a threaded design, TNC connectors offer improved performance at higher frequencies, up to 12 GHz, and are often found in wireless and cellular systems.
• SubMiniature version A (SMA) Connector: Commonly used in Wi-Fi antennas, microwave systems, and radio equipment, SMA connectors support frequencies up to 18 GHz and offer excellent performance in compact spaces.
• SubMiniature version B (SMB) Connector: SMB connectors are smaller push-on connectors typically used in telecommunications hardware.
• QMA Connector: A quick-locking alternative to the SMA connector, QMA connectors are popular in industrial and communications electronics for their ease of use and reliable connection.
• 7/16 DIN Connector: Designed for high-power applications, the 7/16 DIN connector is larger and often used in cellular base stations and broadcast transmitters.
• F Connectors: Also known as F-type connectors, these are commonly used for cable television, satellite TV, and broadband internet, especially with RG-6 and RG-59 cables.

Technical Specifications of Coaxial Cables

Coaxial cable performance is determined by several technical specifications:

• Impedance: Most coaxial cables used in networking are either 50 ohms or 75 ohms. For example, 75 ohm cables (such as RG-6 and RG-59) are commonly used for video and television signals, while 50 ohm cables are preferred for data and wireless communications.
• Centre Conductor Material: The core conductor is typically made of solid or stranded copper, copper-clad steel, or aluminium. The material affects both signal quality and cable flexibility.
• Jacket Material: The outside jacket safeguards the cable against environmental conditions. Typical materials are PVC for normal usage and polyethene for exterior applications.‍
• Radio Grade (RG) Designation: Coaxial cables have typically been identified by their RG numerals (for example, RG-6 or RG-59) which describe particular elements of their construction and performance standards such as diameter, impedance, and shielding.

Coaxial cable has numerous uses in networking including:

1. TV Broadcasting

Coaxial cable is used in most cable TV systems. It transmits high-definition video signals to your TV for you to view several channels.

2. Internet Connections

ISPs use coaxial cable widely to connect homes and businesses to their broadband networks. This kind of connection is widely used in cable internet services.

3. Local Area Networks (LANs)

Coaxial cable previously linked computers and other devices to a local area. Although more modern options are available, it is still found in older networks.

4. Security Systems

Coaxial cable is also utilized for connecting security cameras with monitor systems. It provides good video transmission so that the video capture from monitoring cameras is clear and not interrupted.

While taking into consideration the usage of coaxial cables in computer networks, one should not forget their advantages along with the disadvantages. Thia gives an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of coaxial cables.

Advantages of Coaxial Cables

• Coaxial cables are a type of shielded cable. Their design typically includes a copper braid and multiple outer conductors, which provide strong protection against electromagnetic interference and help minimize signal loss.
• Coaxial cables support a variety of connectors, such as RCA connectors, making them adaptable for both audio/video and data applications.
• The center conductor—often made of solid copper—ensures reliable signal transmission and good conductivity.
• Many coaxial cables, especially hardline cable and those with specialized jackets, offer enhanced moisture protection, making them suitable for outdoor or harsh environments.
• Advanced variants like triaxial cables add extra layers of shielding, which can further reduce ground loops and magnetic noise, improving signal clarity in sensitive applications.
• Coaxial cables are generally robust and can withstand physical stress, making them suitable for installations where durability is important.

Issues and Challenges  of Coaxial Cables

While coaxial cables offer reliable data transmission, they are not without their challenges. Awareness of these issues is essential for maintaining network performance and security.

• One of the main challenges with coaxial cables is electromagnetic interference (EMI). Despite the presence of a braided mesh or shielding layer, strong external electromagnetic fields can still disrupt the signal, especially in environments with many electronic devices. Inadequate shielding or damage to the cable can make the cable more susceptible to interference, resulting in degraded data transmission quality.
• Signal leakage is another concern. It occurs when the signal escapes through gaps in the shielding or braided mesh, or when external signals penetrate the cable. This can cause a loss of data integrity and may even allow sensitive information to be intercepted, leading to data compromise.
• Cable thickness is a practical challenge, especially in environments where space is limited. Thicker cables can be difficult to install, route, or conceal, and may require specialized professional tools for proper handling and termination.
• The construction of coaxial cables also presents potential security risks. Improper installation or the use of unauthorized connectors, such as a "t-joint," can create vulnerabilities. A t-joint is a type of connection that, if not properly secured, can be exploited by unauthorized individuals to tap into the cable and access transmitted data.
• Even with robust shielding, coaxial cables can be damaged by bending, crushing, or prolonged exposure to harsh environments. Damaged cables may experience increased interference issues and signal loss, necessitating regular inspection and maintenance.

The choice of the means of transmission of computer networks must put coaxial cables against comparison with some other much-preferred options: Ethernet cables, HDMI cables, and fiber optic cables. The comparative analysis includes advantages and limitations in bandwidth, speed for data transmission, signal type, installation process, and susceptibility to interference.

Coaxial Cable vs Ethernet Cable

Cat6 and Cat8 cables are examples of Ethernet cables that people mostly use for their wired computer networks. The Cat6 cable can carry data at a rate of 1 Gbps, and the Cat8 cable supports up to 40 gigabits per second over short distances. Normal coaxial cables support much lower speeds, hence the reason they do not find much application in current high-speed data networks. Ethernet cables will also carry digital signals and, in most cases, do not suffer as much from signal interference as coaxial cables due to their twisted pair construction.

Coaxial Cable vs HDMI Cable

HDMI cables are designed to transmit high-definition digital signals for both audio and video, making them standard for connecting TVs, monitors, and projectors. Unlike coaxial cables, which primarily carry analog signals (though digital is possible), HDMI cables offer higher bandwidth and superior signal quality, with minimal loss or interference. HDMI cables also simplify installation and implementation by combining audio and video in a single connection.

Coaxial Cable vs Fiber Optic Cable

The best high-speed data transmission comes from fiber optic cables. Since they use light to transmit, their speed and bandwidth are much greater than coaxial cables. Fiber optic cables contain no metal; hence, there is absolutely no electromagnetic interference possible with them. A comparison between the ease and low cost of installation of coaxial cables against fiber optics shows that despite this fact, fiber optics are fast becoming the most chosen method for installing backbone network connections and internet infrastructure because of their performance advantages.

Coaxial Cable vs Optical Digital Connection

An optical digital connection, otherwise known as TOSLINK cables, is most often used to transmit high-quality digital audio. They have better resistance against signal interference compared with coaxial cable and are the standard installation in home theatre systems but they do break easily and can't be used for general networking.

Finally, coaxial cable in computer networks is still a very dominant part. Newer options such as fiber optics do exist, yet coaxial cable remains an option because it's reliable, durable, and less expensive. Coaxial cables plays a significant role in computer networks, influencing how data transmission has evolved over the years.

1. Can coaxial cables be used to transmit data and video?

Yes, coaxial cables are viable and can sustain both data and video signals and can hence be used in computer networking for various applications.

2. Why is coaxial cable used in contemporary computer networks?

As optical fiber technology developed, coaxial cable is still in use because it is less expensive, simpler to install, and can provide consistent signals in certain uses.

3. What is the principal use of coaxial cable?

Coaxial cable is typically applied to transmit high-frequency signals with little interference. Coaxial cable has found extensive application in cable TV, internet, and radio communications due to the fact that it can transmit immense bandwidth over long distances with surety.

4. What are two types of coaxial cable?

The most popular coaxial cable types are RG-6 and RG-59. RG-6 is more commonly used for TV cables and the internet because of improved insulation and better signal quality, whereas RG-59 can be used for short-distance video transmission such as CCTV.