CABRG58CU specifications and features - coax cable guide for makers and technicians

Overview: what is CABRG58CU and where it’s used

The term CABRG58CU typically refers to a 50-ohm RG58-style coaxial cable with a copper conductor construction used for RF, radio, test leads and general signal transmission. This guide explains the CABRG58CU specifications and features you need when choosing cable for ham radio, antenna feeds, lab patch leads, or classroom RF experiments. The keyword CABRG58CU appears throughout to help you match datasheets and supplier listings.

Core characteristics

• Characteristic impedance: nominally 50 ohms - suitable for most RF and test applications where a 50-ohm system is required.
• Center conductor: solid or stranded copper (CU) for good conductivity and solderability.
• Dielectric: typically PE (polyethylene) or foam PE for stable velocity factor and low loss.
• Shielding: single or double braid plus foil options affect shielding effectiveness (dB) and flexibility.
• Outer jacket: PVC or LSZH for mechanical protection and environmental resistance.

Quick spec comparison

How South African makers and labs use CABRG58CU

In South Africa, hobbyists and university labs commonly use RG58-style copper-centre cables for VHF/UHF antenna patch leads, bench leads between signal generators and spectrum analyzers, and short jumper runs in prototyping. Availability and lead times can vary - check local stock at your nearest Communica branch for immediate collection or order through the online catalogue.

For checking local stock and branch collection options, see the branches and trading hours page on the Communica site for Samrand, Pretoria and Cape Town branches.

Branches & trading hours

Choosing the right variant: practical selection criteria

• Frequency range - for HF (<30 MHz), VHF (30-300 MHz) or UHF (>300 MHz) check attenuation per metre at the relevant frequency.
• Shielding - use double braid or foil for noisy EMI environments; single braid is fine for bench leads and short runs.
• Flexibility - stranded copper and thinner jackets improve flexibility for movable leads; solid centre is easier to solder for permanent connectors.
• Connector compatibility - RG58-style cables typically terminate to BNC, TNC, N or SMA adapters; confirm connector type and gender before purchasing.

For browsing options and connector accessories, explore Communica’s online store to compare cable and connector options.

Shop by category and shop by brand to compare cable and connector options.

Calculations, wiring examples and practical tips

Length, velocity factor and electrical length

To estimate the electrical length of a cable run, use the velocity factor (VF) from the datasheet. Electrical length (m) = physical length (m) × VF. For time-delay sensitive projects, a CABRG58CU with a foam dielectric (VF ~0.78) differs from solid PE (VF ~0.66).

Simple loss and power handling examples (SA context)

Attenuation is commonly listed in dB per metre at specified frequencies. Example: if CABRG58CU lists 0.5 dB/m at 100 MHz, a 10 m run loses 5 dB. In South Africa, for typical VHF amateur radio setups, a 5 dB loss equates to about a 68% reduction in power at the antenna - useful when estimating link budgets. Power handling depends on cable construction and operating temperature; consult the supplier datasheet for exact ZAR-rated power values where required.

Ohm’s law and RF matching note

While Ohm’s law (V = I × R) is fundamental for DC circuits, RF systems rely on characteristic impedance matching. For CABRG58CU, maintain 50-ohm continuity: mismatches cause reflections measured as VSWR. For simple DC continuity checks and connector solder joints, standard multimeter checks and good soldering practice are adequate.

Wiring diagram examples (ASCII)

BNC male (cable end) wiring example:  +-----------+  |   BNC     |  |  \  //  |  <- outer shell (shield) -> braided shield to connector body  |   \\/   |  |    ||    |  <- center pin -> centre conductor (copper)  +-----------+Connector assembly: strip outer jacket, fold braid back, solder centre conductor to pin, crimp or solder braid to sleeve.

Troubleshooting common issues

• High SWR or signal loss: check connectors and crimps for poor shield contact or an interrupted centre conductor.
• Intermittent RF: inspect for hairline breaks in the centre conductor, especially near connector bends.
• Excessive noise pickup: upgrade to foil+braid or route cable away from mains and switching supplies.

Procurement and local availability guidance

Communica stocks a wide range of cable, connectors and test tools suitable for CABRG58CU-style applications. For education or bulk purchases, request VAT invoices and quotes via account services. Check stock in Samrand for quickest collection or view the All Products index for online browsing with SKU references.

See all products or learn about Communica’s history and service model on the about page.

About Communica provides local context for procurement, branch pickup and education support in South Africa.

Selecting accessories and tools

• Connectors: match impedance and frequency rating (BNC for lab, N or SMA for specific RF gear).
• Crimp tools and soldering irons: use correct dies and temperature control for copper centre conductors.
• Test gear: a VSWR meter or antenna analyser helps verify cable and connector performance on-site.

Final recommendations for South African users

For classroom and maker projects, choose a flexible stranded CABRG58CU with BNC terminations for ease of use. For permanent antenna feeds, prefer a variant with better shielding and UV-stable jacket. Always confirm attenuation, velocity factor and connector compatibility on the supplier listing before purchase. To compare options quickly, browse Communica’s category pages and compare coax cables and request quotes for larger orders.

Sources

• Communica - Shop by category
• Communica - About Us (company background and services)
• Coaxial cable - technical overview and common types
• RG58 vs RG59 - practical differences for RF use