The RG316 vs RG174 coaxial cables debate has existed for a long time, but this article helps you understand the main differences and similarities. Each coaxial cable contains unique characteristics and has a specific function, and although they may look identical, you should be careful how you use them.
In addition, the coax cable has many applications in your home, and most households have at least a single cable. Keep reading the following sections of this guide, where we provide all the details that will make you an expert at each coaxial cable.
Contents
Comparison Table
| Eightwood RF RG316 | Eightwood RF RG174 | |
| Key Specifications |
|
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| Material | PVC | FEP |
| Inner material | Steel copper strand | Copper stranded wire / silver-plated |
| Cable attenuation | 0.55 for 400 MHz and 0.88 for 1 GHz | 0.53 for 400 MHz and 0.93 for 1 GHz |
| Bending radius | 14 mm | 13 mm |
What Are the Differences Between RG316 and RG174?
The main difference between RG316 and RG174 cables is that the RG316 coax cable is significantly cheaper than the RG174 cable. In addition, the size of the inner conductor is different, which confuses customers when choosing which cable is better.
What Is RG316 Best For?
The RG316 cable is best for those who are looking for a durable cable as this is one of the most high-performance RF coaxial cables currently on the market because it acts incredibly well in high-pressure environments. This means that no matter how bad the environment can be, this cable will withstand every scenario while maintaining excellent performance. Many RF connectors usually degrade after extended use, but this cable will last a lot longer than other similar cables.
Another important benefit this amazing cable offers is the material it is made of. Namely, the manufacturer picked top-quality materials, which is why this cable can withstand harsh conditions and high temperatures. In addition, some of the most practical applications for this cable are telecommunication connections, radiofrequency, and direct burial links. This cable is also used to transmit various radio frequency signals and wireless communications, but broadcasting does not have as much support.
This cable is not perfect, as nothing in this world is, but the only negative thing we can say about the RG316 cable is that it is much heavier than it is supposed to be. Although weight is not an important factor to many customers, some people care about the details, and thus, the weight can make a huge difference. In addition, some RF interference may occasionally occur, which can degrade the performance and the signal.
This section covered the general facts about this cable, but we must also know the in-depth details such as the stunning interconnections of high-frequency.
– Amazing Interconnections of High-frequency
Another crucial application of the RG316 cable, and all cables of the same sort, is the fixture in interconnections of high-frequency between the telecommunication equipment and the PCB. Consequently, there is no better cable with a male plug for this application because it provides constant performance and stability, a performance that other cables cannot replicate. That is why many telecommunication giants use this cable in high-temperature environments, where things can go wrong suddenly.
Additionally, this cable works flawlessly in minimal installation space because it is easy to handle and maneuver. This flexibility in the design makes it ideal for the telecommunication applications discussed previously, especially for wireless communication or direct burials. The radio-frequency spectrum can easily handle all tasks without interruptions or complete breakdowns.
Furthermore, another important quality this cable offers is corrosion resistance. The main reason why this cable is so resistant to corrosion is due to the material it is made out of. Although the cable may be on the heavy side, the materials used can solve any issues with corrosion, accidental tears, and loose connections. In addition, this cable does not require a metal coating, which is essential in most cables for heavy use.
This section lays out the facts and explains what makes this cable better than others. However, we cannot finish this review if we do not do the same about the RG174 cable, which also features incredible specs as shown below.
What Is RG174 Best For?
The RG174 is best for those who are looking for cheaper cables with decent quality. This cable will save you a lot of money, especially if you purchase hundreds of meters, because the final cost will be less than the RG316 cable. The price difference is enormous, and there is no other cable within a similar price range having the same qualities.
What about the other benefits this amazing cable offers? First, the RG174 has an incredible shield and jacket, meaning you are not likely to see any visible damage after years of hard use. In addition, the temperature range you get for this price is as good as it can get. Similar price cables cannot withstand half of the temperature the RG174 cable can, so if high temperature is something you are worried about, this is the ideal cable.
Additionally, this cable has a stunning flexible diameter, which is crucial for many customers needing a tight space or turn. Furthermore, manipulating this cable is easy, and, similar to the RG316, the bending radius is 14 mm, which is just a millimeter more than the RG316. So if you are looking for incredibly affordable cables, the RG174 is the perfect solution. First, however, keep reading this review to learn about the other qualities.
– Receiving GPS Data Signals
The RG174 50-ohm coal cable is used constantly in many commercial applications, such as sending and receiving GPS data signals and connecting WAN and LAN networks. As a result, this cable has gained an incredible reputation over the years for WAN networks, which is why many households worldwide still use it. Namely, it would be best to opt for this cable if you need a variety of commercial operations due to the cable’s incredible signal transmission capability.
In addition, this cable is made of bare copper-clad steel conductors, allowing for a small and flexible diameter. Together with the incredible conductor, this cable features decent low-density polyethylene insulation as well as a PVC jacket. All the materials used provide astonishing performance, affordable price, and maximum flexibility.
Finally, the jacket allows the perfect signal transmission featuring a non-contaminating PVC Type II A per MIL-C-17. There is no better jacket able to withstand this signal transmission other than the RG174. We will finish this review by reminding you that the maximum temperature of this cable is 185 degrees Fahrenheit, which is incredibly high.
FAQs
1. RG174 vs RG316 for WiFi Antennas?
The RG316 coaxial cable is thicker, which results in less signal loss and is the reason why most Wi-Fi antennas feature the RG316 cable as their primary source of signals. However, this fact does not make the RG174 a terrible Wi-Fi antenna cable choice because it has similar qualities. For example, although the cable is thinner, the RG174 provides a decent signal without many bugs and interruptions.
Additionally, both cables are 50 Omh, and if you look at the main specs, there is little to no difference. On the flip side, it would be best to opt for the RG174 if your budget is tight and you are trying to save money. This cable is significantly cheaper than the RD316, but you should consider the higher signal loss.
2. Where Do You Get Your Coax Wire?
Customers can get coax wires from various places, including computer equipment stores and internet provider warehouses. However, finding the place where you can purchase the cable is more difficult than choosing the adequate coax wire. As a result, you must distinguish between the different cable types, including the RG174, RG58, RG6, and RG11.
For example, the RG174 is thin and ideal for working with, especially if you have many tight corners. The RG316 is similar, but you should pay more because it is more expensive. On the flip side, the RG58 has half the signal loss as the RG174 but it is significantly thicker. This makes the cable more difficult to work with, which is a huge problem for tight places.
Finally, the RG6 and RG11 cables are cheaper alternatives, but they are thicker than the RG58, making them incredibly difficult to work with. However, they are ideal for long runs because they are durable and have a lower signal loss.
3. How to Troubleshoot Antennas?
The first thing to do when troubleshooting an antenna is to locate any shorts and check for opens. Troubleshooting your antenna is important if you have a significant signal loss. Fortunately, you can follow several simple steps to locate and fix the problem.
Read the following list for more information:
- Locate any shorts with an ohmmeter.
- Check for “opens” and ensure there is constant connectivity.
- Ensure the satellite reach is adequate.
- Position your antenna at a clear sky view.
- Check the software for any bugs or mistakes.
If you follow the steps shown here carefully, you can troubleshoot your antenna for any problems. In case the problem still occurs, repeat the same process.
Final Summary
As our thorough guide showed and taught you, these two cables possess many qualities, including various similarities and differences. The main difference between RG316 and RG174 cables is that the RG316 coax cable is significantly cheaper than the RG316 cable. Also, the size of the inner conductor is different, which can confuse certain customers when choosing the better option.
It would be best to opt for the RG174 if you want to save money because this cable is affordable but guarantees incredible, continuous performance. On the other hand, spending more money on the RG316 is worth it because not only do you get quality, but you also get practicality. With this, we recommend you try both cables to see the most significant difference and then choose the one you prefer more.