Our This vs. That series compares two products that have similar applications with different constructions that allow them to be useful in different applications. Both coaxial cable and twinaxial cable are used in data processing and information, but some applications may have specific requirements for voltage, range, and other factors that may make one type of cable more optimal than the other.
What is Coaxial Cable?
Coaxial cable is used in the transmission of video, communications, and audio. These cables are designed to transmit high-frequency signals and data with low loss due to environmental factors and interference. Allied stocks a wide variety of coaxial cables that can vary in terms of its impedance, environmental temperature, working voltage, signal loss at specific frequencies, power rating, and cost.
Coaxial cable’s construction may vary depending on the application that it is used for. Many conventional coax cables feature a copper wire and copper mesh shield to remain flexible while preventing signal leakage. Coax cables are also available in military-grade. These cables are referred to as RGs and are used in applications where military specifications are needed, as well as direct burial applications. Coaxial cables can also meet M17 military specifications. You can learn more about the differences between RG and M17 coaxial cable here.
What is Twinaxial Cable?
Twinaxial cable is commonly used in data transmission and information systems applications. This cable uses two twisted conductors surrounded by a common shield. The two conductors provide more protection from environmental factors and lower cable loss. Twinax cable loses its effectiveness in long-range situations over 15 MHz. It is primarily used in short-range, high-speed signaling applications. Twinax cables also meet military M17 specifications.
How Do They Compare?
There are a lot of similarities between coaxial and twinaxial cable. Both are used in data transmission and information system applications, along with the protection of the signal from interference. Coax and Twinax also both have military specs, which allows them to be used in applications requiring military standards. These cables are identified as RG or M17.
The biggest difference between these two types of cables is their construction. Twinaxial cable features two conductors instead of one, allowing them to provide a better protected and clearer signal, but only in very short range and high-speed applications. Coaxial cable is more versatile in its usage, and it is able to carry low-frequency signals such as audio. This makes it an ideal cable to use for radiofrequency and cable transmission applications.
If you’re unsure about what cable you’ll need in order to meet the needs of your application, let Allied help you out! Check out Allied Wire and Cable for more information on Coax and Twinax Cables or give your sales rep a call at 800-472-4655 with any questions.