SCTE Broadband - Feb 2025

FROM THE INDUSTRY

temperatures. These might include corrugated copper armour for maximum shield effectiveness or stainless-steel braid for enhanced tensile strength and crush resistance.

For wireless communications systems, 50Ohm cables provide excellent power handling capabilities while maintaining reasonable size and flexibility. The impedance value allows for efficient power transfer in transmitter applications while minimising voltage breakdown risks. Test and measurement equipment predominantly uses 50Ohm systems to ensure consistency and repeatability across different instruments and setups. The standard impedance simplifies calibration procedures and ensures measurement accuracy across a wide frequency range. Military and aerospace applications benefit from the robust power handling capabilities of 50Ohm systems. The standard provides a good balance between power handling and physical size, crucial for applications where space and weight are critical considerations. 75Ohm Systems: Optimised for Signal Quality The 75Ohm standard evolved primarily for applications where signal quality takes precedence over power handling capability: Cable television systems utilise 75Ohm cables because this impedance value provides optimal signal-to-noise ratio for voltage signals. The higher impedance results in lower signal attenuation, allowing for longer cable runs without amplification. Broadcast equipment in professional video applications is standardised on 75Ohm systems to maintain signal quality over distance. The impedance value provides excellent voltage signal handling while minimising distortion and interference. Satellite communication systems benefit from the superior voltage handling characteristics of 75Ohm cables. The standard provides optimal performance for receiving weak signals from distant satellites while maintaining signal quality. Advanced Applications and Solutions

Next-Generation Wireless Communications

Modern wireless communications infrastructure requires increasingly sophisticated RF cable solutions to meet growing bandwidth demands and complex system architectures.

Quality Assurance and Technical Support

Our commitment to quality extends throughout our entire operation, from initial design through to final delivery:

5G/6G Network Implementation

The rollout of 5G/6G networks presents unprecedented challenges for RF cable systems. Ultra-high frequencies and complex network architectures demand specialised solutions: Phase stability becomes critical at millimetre-wave frequencies used in 5G/6G systems. Temperature variations can cause significant phase changes, affecting system timing and synchronisation. Advanced cable designs incorporate special dielectric materials and construction techniques to minimise these effects. Our technical team works closely with network designers to optimise cable solutions for specific installation scenarios. This might involve custom lengths, specialised connector configurations, or hybrid cables combining RF and power conductors for remote radio heads.

Comprehensive Quality Management

Our ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 accreditations represent more than just certifications – they embody our systematic approach to quality management: Every batch of cable undergoes rigorous testing, including: n Dimensional verification using precision measurement equipment n Electrical testing for impedance consistency, attenuation and return loss n Shield effectiveness measurements n Jacket integrity verification n Environmental stress testing when required Our quality documentation system maintains full traceability from raw materials through to the finished product, ensuring consistent performance and allowing for rapid response to any quality concerns.

Specialised Industry Applications

The demands of specialised industries require RF cable solutions that meet exacting standards and unique operational requirements. The specialised applications are explored here in detail:

Advanced Technical Support

Aerospace and Defence Systems

Our technical support team combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to provide comprehensive assistance. During the design phase, we offer detailed technical consultation, including: n System-level performance calculations n Cable selection optimisation n Connector interface recommendations n Installation planning support Our application engineers apply sophisticated modelling tools to predict system performance and identify potential issues before installation begins. This proactive approach helps to prevent costly rework and ensures optimal system performance.

The aerospace and defence sector demands the highest level of performance and reliability in RF cable systems. These applications often operate in extreme conditions while requiring precise performance characteristics: High-flex cables for mobile applications, such as radar systems and communication equipment, undergo rigorous testing to ensure reliability. Our designs incorporate special stranding patterns and jacket materials to achieve flex life ratings exceeding 100,000 cycles while maintaining stable electrical performance. Armoured cables for harsh environments feature multiple layers of protection against mechanical stress, chemical exposure and extreme

The diverse range of RF cable applications demands specialised

solutions tailored to specific requirements. Here the key application areas and their unique demands are explored:

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Volume 47 No.1 MARCH 2025

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