Navigating the world of coaxial cables can be a labyrinth! With various “RG” designations, multiple shielded variations, and a plethora of outer sheath (cable jacket) options, it’s easy to get lost. To add to the complexity, there are two different center conductor types to consider: Copper Clad Steel (CCS) and Solid Copper. This article aims to shed light on this age-old debate and help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
Understanding Coaxial Cable Construction
Coaxial cable primarily comes in two center conductor types:
- Copper Clad Steel (CCS)
- Solid Copper (BC or bare copper)
To better understand what we’re discussing, let’s look at how a coaxial cable is constructed:
You might think that standards-setting organizations like ANSI/TIA, SCTE, or others could clarify which one is superior. However, the ANSI/SCTE 74 specification allows for either one to be used, and the ANSI/TIA 568.4-D BroadBand Coaxial Cable and Components standard makes no distinction between the two in terms of performance. The ANSI/TIA 568.0-E Generic Telecom Cabling Standard only separates the two regarding the amount of pulling tension that can be applied to the cable during installation. The specification states CCS may have up to 75 ft/lbs applied, and 40 ft/lbs is the maximum for solid copper.
The Skinning Effect and Data Transmission
Coaxial cable constructed of copper clad steel relies on what is known as the “skinning effect”. In simple terms, the signal travels down the copper coating to the destination, and it is perfectly fine for data transmission. There is no measurable loss in data transmission between copper clad steel and solid copper center conductor coaxial cable, as long as the copper coating over the steel remains intact.
Powering Devices: Solid Copper’s Advantage
Where solid copper center conductor coax cable really outshines copper clad steel is when it comes to cable runs requiring voltage. We’re not talking about AC voltage here, but low DC voltage for powering up a device like a satellite dish. In fact, copper clad steel will lose TWICE as much voltage over the same distance as solid copper. This is why satellite installers and satellite system designers require solid copper coaxial cable. Satellite dishes and receivers use a LNB (Low-Noise Block downconverter) that requires power across the coaxial cable.
Practical Considerations
Given that you may be installing coaxial cable in various environments, it’s impractical to stock and keep track of both types. A simple mistake of grabbing the wrong spool can halt your installation if you have to backtrack to get the right cable. Also, consider future needs: What if someone needs to install a power injector onto that coaxial cable down the line? If you used copper clad steel, you might face a replacement or an unhappy end customer.
Key Takeaways
- Both CCS and solid copper have the same maximum run distance and data transmission characteristics.
- CCS is less expensive than solid copper.
- CCS can withstand more pull tension during installation than solid copper.
- Solid copper is far superior for applications requiring voltage to a device.
- Solid copper is strongly recommended for satellite installations and A/V (audio/visual) applications.
- CCS can and will destroy cable cutters. CCS requires durable cable cutters with hardened steel jaws for the task.
A Word of Caution
Do not confuse CCS for CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum). While CCS is acceptable for coaxial cable per the standards organizations, assuming you are installing it in the right environment, CCA is not suitable for communications cable under any circumstances.
In conclusion, while you might save a few dollars buying copper clad steel, in the long run, it may not be worth it. We recommend purchasing and sticking with solid copper center conductor coaxial cable for its superior performance and versatility.
