The deterioration of signals over cable runs is a serious limitation in wireless communication systems, such as 5G base stations or Wi-Fi backhaul, or point-to-point microwave. That is where low-loss coaxial cable comes in handy.
It is designed to have low attenuation at higher frequencies. That makes the signal travel further and not degrade as much. In RF systems, that would mean:
- More power efficiency
- Cleaner signal
- More predictable performance.
This is particularly important in systems with high throughput requirements or that operate at high frequencies. Let us examine just where and why the low-loss coax is important.
5G and cellular infrastructure
In macrocell or small cell networks, the cable length between the radio and antennas may be high, even more than 50 feet. On normal coaxial cable, this gap would produce a lot of signal loss, particularly at frequencies above 2 GHz. The insertion loss of a low-loss coaxial cable, such as LMR-400 or similar, will minimize losses, conserving transmit power and receiving sensitivity.
It also enables a more strict impedance control (usually 50 ohms) that eliminates signal reflections and enhances VSWR, especially in power-sensitive cellular networks. It translates into fewer dropped packets, improved uplink/downlink performance, and improved handoffs.
A microwave and point-to-point radio links
Microwave (licensed and unlicensed) usually work in the 6-40 GHz range. Standard coax is almost unusable beyond short distances at these frequencies because the attenuation is very high.
In these systems, the low-loss coax is generally employed as the final few feet to the antennas and equipment. Even a 10-foot coaxial length at 18GHz can cause significant loss. This is where a low-loss cable comes in. With well-matched connectors such as SMA or N-type, it maintains a healthier link budget.
Outdoor Wi-Fi and wireless bridges
In outdoor access points, particularly a mesh network or long-range wireless mini-bridges, coverage may be directly lower due to cable loss. Even an RG-58 of standard quality might lose several dB at 5 GHz in a 30-foot run. This can either reduce performance or necessitate the use of another amplifier.
Low-loss coaxial cable assists in maintaining throughput and range by preserving effective radiated power (ERP). When combined with waterproof jackets and UV-rated material, it also enables dependable long-term outdoor durability.
Broadcast, RF testing, and emergency comms
Signal integrity over varying environments is important in broadcast vans, tactical communications, or even test setups in general. Low-loss coax reduces the requirement of inline amplifiers and compensators by simply reducing the inherent loss along the cable.
In portable deployments where the equipment is always reconfigured, the cable must maintain RF integrity without being delicate. Solid shielding low-loss variants made with flexible dielectric materials are suitable for that use case.
Summing up
In wireless systems, low-loss coaxial cable is not a luxury. It is a requirement. Whether you are installing 5G radios, aligning microwave dishes, or implementing long-range Wi-Fi, the quality of the cable you use directly affects the strength, efficiency, and overall system reliability of the signal.
When installing a wireless system or rescuing a poorly performing one, it is a good idea to verify your coax specifications first. Don’t overlook the value of some dB of saved loss.