Coax Cable Guide: RG174, RG178, RG316, RG58 and LMR240
ONELINKMORE engineering guide: Use this reference to narrow the connector or cable configuration before ordering. Always confirm the interface, center contact, impedance, frequency range, mounting style and cable requirements for the specific system.
There is no single best coax cable
The correct cable balances loss, diameter, flexibility, temperature, routing, connector compatibility and installation distance. Thin cables simplify routing inside compact equipment; larger low-loss cables are usually more suitable for longer runs or higher-frequency links.
Quick comparison
| Cable family | Typical selection reason | Common consideration |
|---|---|---|
| RG174 | Flexible, compact pigtails and short equipment leads | Higher loss than larger cable families |
| RG178 | Small diameter, PTFE-style construction and compact RF assemblies | Connector termination and routing require care |
| RG316 | Durable miniature RF jumpers and laboratory assemblies | Still intended mainly for short or moderate lengths |
| RG58 | General-purpose 50-ohm radio and antenna leads | Larger than miniature pigtail cable |
| LMR240-type cable | Lower-loss feed lines where size and routing allow | Less flexible and requires matching connectors |
Five questions to answer
- What is the highest operating frequency?
- What cable length is required?
- How much insertion loss can the system tolerate?
- What bend radius and enclosure space are available?
- Which connector, orientation and mounting style are required at each end?
Related cable products
- RG58 SMA female-to-male extension cable
- RG178 U.FL to SMA pigtail
- U.FL male-to-female extension cable
Custom cable assembly information
For a quotation, provide connector A, connector B, cable family, finished length, quantity, frequency range, impedance, jacket or environmental requirements, labeling and packaging. For production quantities, request and verify a sample before final approval.
Need help selecting a configuration?
Browse our RF Connectivity Best Sellers & Engineering Picks, or send the connector, cable, frequency and quantity requirements for review.