RG-178 Cable

Description

RG-178 is one of the smallest and lightest coaxial cables available for 50 Ohm systems. With an outer diameter of approximately 1.8mm, it is designed specifically for high-density electronic environments. Despite its diminutive size, it offers high-frequency stability and extreme environmental resistance thanks to its high-grade material construction. It features a silver-plated copper-clad steel (SPCCS) center conductor and a high-stability PTFE (Teflon) dielectric.

The cable is protected by a silver-plated copper braided shield, providing excellent conductivity and shielding effectiveness at microwave frequencies. Encased in a transparent or tinted FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene) jacket, RG-178 can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -55°C to +200°C. Its combination of small size, high-heat resistance, and silver-plated components makes it the industry standard for pigtail assemblies in WiFi routers, GPS modules, and high-frequency military equipment. It is typically terminated with micro-connectors such as U.FL (IPEX), MMCX, or SMA.

Key Technical Advantages

• Ultra-Miniature Form Factor: The sub-2mm diameter allows for routing in the most space-constrained environments, including inside smartphones and wearable technology.

• Extreme Thermal Stability: The PTFE/FEP construction ensures reliable performance in high-heat industrial or aerospace applications where standard cables would fail.

• High-Frequency Performance: Optimized for signals into the GHz range, making it ideal for 2.4GHz/5GHz wireless and satellite communications.

• Silver-Plated Construction: Both the center conductor and the outer braid are silver-plated to enhance conductivity and provide superior resistance to corrosion and oxidation.

• Low Weight/High Strength: The copper-clad steel core provides high tensile strength, ensuring the cable survives pulling and mechanical stress during installation.

Key Features

• Cable Type: RG-178 / U Coaxial.

• Impedance: 50 Ohm.

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

• Shielding: Single Silver-Plated Copper Braid (Typically 90-95% coverage).

• Dielectric: PTFE (Teflon).

• Common Applications: Internal WiFi/Bluetooth pigtails, GPS modules, medical sensing equipment, and aerospace instrumentation.

🔹 Applications:

• Micro RF cable assemblies
• Embedded systems and IoT devices
• Antenna connections
• RF signal routing
• Compact electronics
• Communication modules