Coax cable confusion - what do I really need?

S

Sid Post

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Oct 14, 1998
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OK, yes I know Wal-mart will sell me some cheap cable that may or may not work. The problem is a I need a long run length and don't want to daisy chain several cables together.

What I have is a Wilson Electronics WeBoost 4G. One of the included cable connectors came off so, lets say my confidence is low so I'm not inclined to spend over $100 on more cable from them.

What I need is 125 to 150 feet of low loss cable with N type connectors (I believe that's what they are, those little screw on threaded connectors). I believe that is the right connector for outside environmental exposure (rain, ice, sun, etc.). Then I will also need a selection of shorter patch cables to face plates, booster, and indoor antenna.

What is reasonable in the cost-performance trade off? I'm already dealing with a weak signal but, a 1/2 inch high dollar cable isn't an option either (even if I wanted to pay for it, it is way too stiff and bulky to fish down a sheet rock wall). I'm looking at some ~$1/ft cables but, I am confused. :confused:

TIA,
Sid
 
It's for cell phone booster signal only? Or are you running something like digital television through it?

I'm sure there are specialty mil-spec cables for outdoor use if you have loads of $$. Water-proof, oil proof, heat resistant, and immune to UV damage... I'm also sure the cable tv guy didn't use mil-spec anything, just normal RG6 coaxial cable, and it's been up on the roof for years with no issues. You can buy a 100-200' spool for cheap and put your own connectors on, that way the cable is cut to the exact length with no unnecessary connections and the minimal cable length possible.

The "N" type connectors are a bit specialized, but that could very well be what's on the WeBoost. I don't know why, aside from the connection to the WeBoost, you couldn't use standard "F" connectors. You'll have to ask someone smarter about that.
 
You may also need to install a powered "in line booster" to get a cell phone antenna signal through +100 feet of cable.

Again, I'm hoping someone smarter will chime in. ;)
 
It looks like the N type connectors are more weather tolerant/resistant. Also, it looks like the cable is 50ohm, not 75ohm.

LR-600 is expensive but, doesn't loose as much power. LR-400 is pretty good stuff too. Then there is the frequency roll-off issues for LTE bands.

attenuation chart for various frequencies and run lengths

I am dealing with a weak signal so, line losses are a concern. An inline booster would be nice but, those ain't cheap. My neighbor built a big barn at the top of the hill so, I have to work around that issue as well. A cell phone isn't worth $2K to me and by the time I add additional boosters, line, antennas, etc. it is easily over $1k. It may be time to cut my losses. :(
 
duro said:
you're going to want to get a roll of rg 6 quad shielded cable, f connectors, compression tool, and prep tool. rg6 is 75 ohm. to convert to the n connector use something like this, http://www.showmecables.com/product...B-b_OKRKF_tHwuYseoelMHKZnWMb-YFDKIaAg7S8P8HAQ

watch a few youtube videos on how to properly make an f connector.
Click to expand...

RG-6 might be great for a television antenna or your satellite dish but, isn't it the wrong cable to use for LTE frequencies? Won't the 75/50ohm transitions cause signal reflections?
 
Bob W said:
You may also need to install a powered "in line booster" to get a cell phone antenna signal through +100 feet of cable.

Again, I'm hoping someone smarter will chime in. ;)
Click to expand...

he'll be fine. you're only losing 6 db per 100 ft on the high end.
 
Sid Post said:
RG-6 might be great for a television antenna or your satellite dish but, isn't it the wrong cable to use for LTE frequencies? Won't the 75/50ohm transitions cause signal reflections?
Click to expand...

No. No it will not...A kink in the cable, yeah that will cause reflections. He's not going to want to use that 50 ohm stuff.
 
Sid, go to the manufacturers website that makes that device. Good luck.
 
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