RG-316 - BNC Male - BNC Male - 2 Feet

RG-316 Coaxial Cable Overview

RG-316 is a miniature, high-frequency coaxial cable commonly used in RF signal transmission where space is limited. It offers a good balance between flexibility, durability, and electrical performance, making it suitable for applications in telecommunications, aerospace, and test environments.

Physical Description & Construction

RG-316 is constructed with multiple layers to ensure signal integrity and mechanical strength:

• Center Conductor: Solid silver-plated copper-clad steel (SPCCS) or solid silver-plated copper wire
• Dielectric: PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), providing excellent high-frequency and thermal performance
• Shielding: Silver-plated copper braid for effective EMI protection
• Outer Jacket: FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene), known for its chemical resistance and high temperature tolerance
• Color: Typically light tan or translucent pink

Dimensions

• Overall Diameter: Approximately 0.098 inches (2.5 mm)
• Center Conductor Diameter: Approximately 0.020 inches (0.51 mm)
• Dielectric Diameter: Approximately 0.065 inches (1.65 mm)
• Impedance: 50 ohms
• Capacitance: Approximately 29.4 pF/ft
• Velocity of Propagation: Approximately 70%
• Maximum Frequency: Typically rated to 3 GHz, usable up to 6 GHz depending on conditions

Pros

• Highly flexible, suitable for compact and tight routing applications
• Capable of high-frequency transmission up to several GHz
• Resistant to high temperatures, with an operating range from -55°C to +200°C
• Good shielding performance due to the silver-plated copper braid
• Resistant to chemicals and moisture, ideal for harsh environments

Cons

• Higher attenuation compared to larger coaxial cables such as RG-58 or RG-213
• Higher cost per foot due to specialized materials
• Limited power handling because of the small conductor size

Common Uses and Applications

• RF and microwave equipment interconnects
• Aerospace and military systems requiring compact, high-temperature cables
• Laboratory test and measurement systems
• Antenna feeds for GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular, and telemetry systems
• Internal wiring in radios, GPS units, and wireless devices