RG-178 FEP Cable

Description

RG-178 FEP is an ultra-thin, high-reliability coaxial cable designed for 50 Ohm systems where space, weight, and temperature resistance are the primary engineering constraints. With an outer diameter of approximately 1.8mm, it is specifically optimized for high-density electronic packaging. The cable’s performance is anchored by a silver-plated copper-clad steel (SPCCS) center conductor and a high-stability PTFE (Teflon) dielectric, ensuring low signal loss and excellent phase stability into the microwave frequency range.

The defining feature of this variant is its FEP jacket, which provides superior chemical resistance and thermal stability compared to standard PVC. It can operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -55°C to +200°C, making it indispensable for applications near heat sources or in fluctuating environmental conditions. The silver-plated copper braided shield ensures high conductivity and superior RF isolation. It is the industry standard for micro-pigtail assemblies and is most commonly terminated with U.FL (IPEX), MMCX, or SMA connectors.

Key Technical Advantages

• Ultra-Compact Profile: The sub-2mm diameter allows for seamless integration into the tightest spaces, including handheld devices and complex avionics bays.

• Superior Thermal Range: The FEP jacket and PTFE dielectric allow for continuous operation in extreme heat or cold without melting or becoming brittle.

• High-Frequency Precision: Delivers stable signal performance through 6GHz and beyond, ideal for 2.4GHz/5GHz WiFi, Bluetooth, and satellite signals.

• Silver-Plated Signal Path: Both the center conductor and outer braid are silver-plated to maximize conductivity via the “skin effect” and provide excellent oxidation resistance.

• Chemical and Moisture Immunity: The FEP jacket is inert to most industrial chemicals, oils, and moisture, ensuring long-term survivability in harsh industrial settings.

Key Features

• Cable Type: RG-178 / U (FEP Jacket).

• Impedance: 50 Ohm.

• Center Conductor: 30 AWG (Solid Silver-Plated Copper-Clad Steel).

• Shielding: Single Silver-Plated Copper Braid (Typically 90% coverage).

• Dielectric: PTFE (Teflon).

• Common Applications: Internal WiFi/GPS pigtails, medical sensing probes, aerospace data links, and high-temperature RF modules.

Technical Summary