Overview
The RG-58A/U coaxial cable is a standard-impedance RF transmission line designed for low to medium-power RF signal and data applications. RG-58/U is a type of coaxial cable often used for low-power signal and RF connections, and RG-58A/U was once widely used in “thin” Ethernet (10BASE2), for which it provides a maximum segment length of 185 meters. This flexible cable features a 20 AWG tinned copper conductor and foam polyethylene insulation wrapped in a 95% tinned copper braid shield with PVC jacket—delivering reliable shielding for electromagnetic interference rejection in laboratory, communication, and industrial settings.
Key Features
- Characteristic impedance of 50 Ω, meeting standard RF transmission requirements
- Often used as a generic carrier of signals in laboratories, combined with BNC connectors common on test equipment
- 20 AWG stranded (19×32) tinned copper conductor with foam polyethylene dielectric for low capacitance
- 95% tinned copper braid shield for excellent EMI/RFI rejection
- Highly flexible construction, suitable for tight routing and coiled storage
- PVC outer jacket; indoor-rated with UV protection limitations
Technical Specifications
- Impedance: 50 Ohm nominal
- Conductor: 20 AWG stranded (19×32), tinned copper, 0.037″ diameter
- Insulation: Foam polyethylene
- Shield: Tinned copper braid, 95% coverage
- Outer Jacket: PVC, black
- Nominal OD: 0.195″
- Velocity Factor: 66% (typical)
- Attenuation ranges from 10.8 dB per 100 m at 50 MHz to 70.5 dB per 100 m at 1 GHz
- Suitable Applications: Point-to-point RF links, amateur radio, CB radio, test equipment connections, legacy Ethernet (10BASE2)
- Compliance: UL1685, UL Loading standards, MSHA approved (when applicable)
Typical Applications
RG-58A/U serves a broad range of RF and data communication needs: CB radio antenna feedlines, amateur radio (HF/VHF) jumpers, wireless test bench connections, oscilloscope and analyzer probe leads, RF equipment interconnects, and legacy 10BASE2 thin Ethernet installations in retrofit or maintenance scenarios. Its flexibility and compact size make it ideal for confined spaces where rigid hardline cannot be routed. Also used in RF laboratory settings where signal loss must be controlled at frequencies up to 1 GHz.
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- BNC connectors (standard on test equipment and RF switches)
- PL-259 connectors (with reducing adapters)
- N-type connectors (with reducing adapters)
- Legacy 10BASE2 thin Ethernet network segments
- Most amateur radio transceivers and CB equipment
- RF test and measurement instruments (oscilloscopes, analyzers, signal generators)
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
RG-58A/U is the standard part number across all manufacturers (Belden, Amphenol, etc.). Verify specific connector types and length requirements with your application before ordering. For outdoor RF runs, consider Belden 8259 (RG-58A/U with enhanced UV-resistant PVC) as an upgrade path.
Works With
- RF transmission systems requiring 50-ohm feedlines
- Thin Ethernet (10BASE2) coaxial networks (legacy)
- CATV and community antenna systems
- Amateur radio and CB communication equipment
- Laboratory signal distribution and test patch cords
