RG-213 Cable

Description

RG-213 is a high-performance, thick-diameter coaxial cable designed for 50 Ohm systems where power handling and low attenuation are critical. It is the modern, high-reliability successor to the original RG-8 standard, manufactured to meet strict MIL-C-17 military specifications. The cable features a large 13 AWG stranded bare copper center conductor, which provides excellent flexibility and signal conductivity while being less prone to “work hardening” than solid cores.

To ensure long-term durability, RG-213 is constructed with a solid polyethylene (PE) dielectric and a high-density bare copper braided shield that provides excellent RF isolation. Its defining characteristic is its non-contaminating PVC (Type IIA) jacket, which is specifically designed to resist UV radiation and prevent the leaching of plasticizers into the dielectric. This makes RG-213 exceptionally long-lived even when exposed to direct sunlight and harsh outdoor conditions. It is most commonly terminated with N-Type or PL-259 (UHF) connectors.

Key Technical Advantages

• Ultra-Low Signal Loss: The large 13 AWG conductor minimizes decibel (dB) loss over long cable runs, ensuring more power reaches the antenna.

• Non-Contaminating Jacket: The specialized Type IIA PVC jacket protects the cable from environmental degradation and maintains electrical performance for up to 20 years.

• High Power Handling: Capable of safely transmitting several kilowatts of RF power at lower frequencies, making it ideal for high-power amplifiers.

• Superior Flexibility: The stranded copper core makes the cable easier to route around corners and up antenna towers compared to solid-core alternatives.

• Military Grade Reliability: Built to MIL-C-17 standards, ensuring tight tolerances for impedance, capacitance, and attenuation.

Key Features

• Cable Type: RG-213 / U (MIL-C-17).

• Impedance: 50 Ohm.

• Center Conductor: 13 AWG (7/.030″ Stranded Bare Copper).

• Shielding: Bare Copper Braid (Typically 95% coverage).

• Jacket Materials: Non-contaminating Black PVC (Type IIA).

• Common Applications: High-power HAM radio, marine VHF, land mobile radio base stations, and industrial RF links.

Technical Summary