Constructing BNC Cables

Caged · 4 May 2006 at 22:13

I'm looking to crimp a large(ish) quantity of BNC (composite video) cables for commercial video use. I am totally confused by the type of cable I need. I know it has to be 75 ohm co-ax, but do I use RG6 or RG59? What's the difference between them?

I was going to use Belden cable with Neutrik connectors, and pick up a decent crimp tool for them as well, is this the way to go?

Sorry for being vague, it was some sort of revelation to me that not all 75 ohm co-ax cable is the same.

Cheers

norm · 5 May 2006 at 01:24

Coax varies in terms of signal loss and shielding used generally.

More expensive coax reduces signal loss and invariably features more shielding. However this makes the cable bulkier and less pliable.

Any coax will probably suffice if it's for short video runs.

Tesla · 5 May 2006 at 08:11

norm said:
Any coax will probably suffice if it's for short video runs.

You would be suprised in the amount of signal loss you get through using crappy rf leads.

The type of leads you get free with VCR's and the like, the very very thin RF leads can lose upto 7db(micro)v per metre :eek:

arcamalpha · 5 May 2006 at 11:14

But then 7micro-dB is nothing. So over just 1 or 2 metres it's no probs. Interference is more of an issue.

I tend to RG59.

Bill101 · 5 May 2006 at 11:18

I nornally use stuff from Radio Spares
338-237 for the cable
433-270 for the wire stripper
456-431 for the crimper......this is an old number but should still be in use
112-2432/1990/ for the sleves
404-985 for the connectors

Caged · 5 May 2006 at 12:32

I found a nice range of compatible kit on some other site, Bill101 those BNCs seem to be the 50 ohm variety?

Anyway, I'll be going with Canare LV-61S cable and appropriate BNCs.