The RG58 Coaxial Cable Assembly terminated with an SMA Connector is a cornerstone product for radio frequency (RF) applications that require a balance of flexibility, moderate power handling, and cost-effectiveness. As a widely used 50Ω cable solution, the RG58 is ideal for interconnecting various low-power RF devices, antennas, and test equipment across numerous communication bands.
This assembly provides a reliable link, offering engineers and hobbyists a dependable, flexible cable solution for prototyping, fixed installations, and mobile applications.
Key Features and Technical Profile
1. RG58 Coaxial Cable Characteristics
Impedance and Gauge: The RG58 is a standard 50Ω impedance cable, compatible with the vast majority of wireless communication systems (Wi-Fi, Cellular, GPS, amateur radio). It features a nominal diameter of approximately , making it physically larger and generally lower-loss than micro-coaxial cables like RG174 or RG316.
Flexibility: It is known for its high flexibility, making it very easy to route around corners and through tight spaces, which is a significant advantage in vehicle installations, test benches, and indoor equipment racks.
Frequency Range: RG58 is effective for applications up to the VHF/UHF bands and is commonly used for short runs up to 2.5GHz. Its attenuation (signal loss) increases significantly at higher frequencies compared to low-loss cables like LMR-195 or LMR-400.
Shielding: Typically features a bare copper or tinned copper braid shielding, providing effective protection against external electromagnetic interference (EMI).
2. SMA Connector Termination
Connector Type: The assembly is secured with an SMA (Sub-Miniature A) Connector. This is the industry-standard, small-form-factor connector used on the majority of modern commercial radio equipment.
Configuration: The termination can be either SMA Male (with a center pin) for connecting to an SMA Female port on a device, or SMA Female (with a center sleeve) for connecting to an SMA Male antenna or pigtail. The threaded coupling mechanism ensures a secure, low-VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) connection that resists vibration.
Professional Assembly: The termination utilizes high-quality crimping or soldering techniques to ensure the cable's impedance is correctly matched to the connector, minimizing signal reflections and maximizing power transfer.
Versatile Application Scenarios (Use Cases)
The RG58 Coaxial Cable with SMA Connector is a workhorse in environments where moderate performance and high flexibility are required.
1. Test and Measurement
Laboratory Interconnects: Used to connect signal generators, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers to devices under test (DUTs) on the bench due to its flexibility and reliable 50Ω impedance.
Prototyping: Ideal for initial hardware prototyping of Wi-Fi, LoRa, or other sub-1GHz radio systems.
2. Amateur and Hobby Radio
Base Station Hookups: Often used for short runs to connect amateur radio transceivers to nearby low-power antennas.
Scanner/Receiver Antennas: Perfect for connecting external antennas to handheld scanners and software-defined radios (SDRs).
3. Commercial and Fixed Wireless Access
GPS and Cellular: Used for connecting external GPS or low-gain cellular antennas to modems, trackers, and in-vehicle communication systems where cable flexibility is paramount.
Internal Equipment Racks: Providing flexible jumpers between RF splitters, amplifiers, and routers within a commercial equipment rack.
Performance Considerations and SEO Focus
While the RG58 cable is highly flexible and durable, it is crucial for users to understand its attenuation profile, particularly for long runs or high-frequency applications. For runs over 10meters at 2.4GHz, a lower-loss cable like LMR-240 or LMR-400 is typically recommended to preserve the signal budget.
This cable assembly is best targeted using keywords emphasizing its components and application flexibility: "RG58 SMA Coaxial Cable," "Flexible 50 Ohm RF Jumper," "RG58 SMA Male Assembly," and "VHF/UHF Antenna Cable."
The RG58 Coaxial Cable with SMA Connector remains a dependable, versatile, and economical choice for connecting your RF devices where flexibility meets required performance.
