What is a satellite cable?
A satellite cable is a type of coaxial cable, also known as an ‘f’ type cable. This is due to the pre-terminated miniature f-type screw connectors satellite cables feature. It is designed to carry TV, satellite, mobile modems and even CCTV signals thanks to its ability to carry high frequencies and low currents. It connects signals from the main aerial to media devices and is the main type of electrical cable used by companies to wire up TVs to satellite dishes as coaxial cables block interference and provide clear signals.
Like all coaxial cables, they are distinctly thick and round due to their interior insulation layer and outer layer of shielding. The shielding is an important feature of coaxial and satellite cables as it helps reduce EMI (electromagnetic interference), restrict attenuation loss and signal interference. This is vital as there are several potential sources of interference thanks to the rise of modern-day wireless technologies such as wireless internet routers, mobile phones, laptops, baby monitors, smart meters etc, which can negatively affect a TV’s signal and therefore, the quality of the data transmitted to the TV.
*It is important to note that, although a satellite cable is a coaxial cable, not all coaxial cables are satellite cables. Satellite cables are also generally thicker than standard coaxial cables, and can carry higher frequencies.
Is a satellite cable different to an aerial cable?
Satellite TV and aerials use the same coaxial cable, and a satellite cable can be used with a TV aerial with an f-type connector that is compatible with TVs, top boxes, and other devices.
A coaxial cable allows the transmission of frequency from one point to another.
With satellite TV cables, it carries data from the satellite into the receiver from the dish, ensuring good-quality TV viewing.
Satellite cable connectors:
We offer connectors which can be used in cable TV and satellite installations, designed to attach to the end of the cable to provide a robust, secure connection to a wall socket outlet, splitter or amplifier. These lead connectors are incredibly easy to connect to satellite cables. They are also commonly used in installations of cable and Sky in domestic and commercial applications.
This twist on F-Type connector is commonly used to conduct an electrical signal to TV sets. It can be paired with PH100, PF100, CT100, SAT100, RG6 and more satellite cables.
The F-Type coupler below can be used to connect two F plugs together or join 2 F leads.
What is the best type of satellite cable?
The best and most commonly used type of satellite cable is an RG-6 coaxial cable, and for HDTV an RG-11 coaxial cable is better suited. In addition, the impedance of a cable is also important to consider, and for TV aerials, internet connection, and digital video signals, a 75-ohm impedance is highly recommended to maintain an impedance-matched system. Here at GoSparky we offer satellite cable with either a PVC, PE, or LSZH sheathing. So no matter what job you’re doing we have you covered. Lets take a look at a few examples to make the experience easier for you.
LSZH Satellite Cable:
A good example of this is the SFX100 Coaxial Cable Dca Premium Black UV LSZH (100m)
It is a high-quality satellite cable manufactured to the industry standard of coaxial cable type. The cable complies with the CE 2014/30/EU standard for electromagnetic compatibility, the RoHS2 2011/65/EU directive for restricting hazardous substances, and the LVD 2014/35/EU standard for low voltage safety. Due to the cables LSZH (low smoke zero halogens) high-performance outer sheathing this product offers great smoke resistance. For instance, in the event of a fire or exposure to high levels of heat, it will release a reduced density of smoke which is much safer for humans and any nearby appliances. The LSZH outer jacket also has great humidity and chemical agent resistance. Overall, this makes it ideal for use in telecommunication applications.
In addition, the SFX/100-LSZH-D-BLK-100 satellite cable has a dual screen of conductive foil and copper clad aluminium braid which is excellent for static noise rejection. The cable also feautures a PE foam for added insulation and protection. This makes it perfect for uses with poor TV or CCTV signals as it reduces the electrical interference that would otherwise distort the signal to the TV or CCTV appliances, therefore ensuring a high signal quality.
It is also a 75-ohm impedance cable, carrying high-frequency signals over long distances.
Impedance is the resistance to the flow of electrical current through a circuit, making the SFX/100-LSZH-D-BLK-100 perfect for a TV aerial, interconnection, and digital video signals.
In summary, the SFX/100-LSZH-D-BLK-100 Premium Satellite TV Coaxial Cable:
- Is suitable for ensuring high-quality signal transmissions with TV aerials, interconnection, and digital video signals, making it perfect for TV, satellite dish, and CCTV applications.
- Has an LSZH sheathing makes it ideal for commercial/industrial applications.
PVC Satellite Cable:
We also offer a satellite cable with PVC sheathing, the SFX100 Coaxial Cable Twin Premium Black PVC (100m)
It is a premium quality, high frequency, 100m reel of twin conductor satellite cable with a black PVC outer jacket. It features a foil & braided screen that helps enhance performance and reduce signal interference, making it suitable for carrying CCTV, TV and satellite signals.
The aluminium foil shielding is designed to protect the centre conductor from high-frequency electromagnetic interference whilst the copper clad aluminium braided screen is designed to block out low-frequency interference. This ensures a high-quality shielding system around your satellite cable and explains why low loss is often associated with double-screened coaxial cables.
In addition, the SFX/100-TWIN-PVC-BLK-100 coaxial cable is manufactured from a gas-injected foam for additional protection and features a bare copper conductor, an aluminum braid overall screen and an FPE (Foamed PE) dielectric. An FPE dielectric is an updated type of dielectric material that can be used for high-temperature energy storage. It also has a black PVC (polyvinyl chloride) outer sheathing which is resistant to oxidation and degradation.
In summary, the SFX/100-TWIN-PVC-BLK-100 Premium Twin Coaxial Cable:
- Is suitable for CCTV, TV and satellite installations.
- Has a PVC sheathing makes it ideal for domestic applications.
PE Satellite Cable:
At GoSparky we also offer satellite cable with a PE sheathing. A great example of this is the SFX125 Coaxial Cable Black PE (100m)
This cable is crafted for reliable performance in various telecommunications applications, featuring a sturdy construction for durability and efficient signal transmission.
The cable has a Polyethylene (PE) outer sheath for environmental protection, and inside, it combines PE foamed insulation with a copper braid shield. This dual screening design enhances signal transmission by protecting against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), ensuring clear and stable signal quality.
At its core, the cable uses a bare copper conductor, renowned for excellent electrical conductivity, making it perfect for TV aerials, CCTV systems, and satellite connections. With a 75-ohm impedance, it’s ideal for video and data applications, minimizing signal loss and reflection.
The SFX125 Coaxial Cable also meets CE 2014/30/EU, RoHS2 2011/65/EU, and LVD 2014/35/EU standards, ensuring safety and compliance with environmental regulations.
Overall, the SFX125 Coaxial Cable Black PE (100m) provides robust performance, making it an excellent choice for a range of telecommunications needs.
In conclusion, satellite cables are engineered to transmit CCTV, TV, and satellite signals effectively. They are equipped with woven braid or foil shielding that protects the cable and reduces signal interference. For optimal performance, it is recommended to choose satellite cables with both woven braid and foil shielding (double screening). That’s why we stock only high-quality double-screened satellite cables.
Additionally, these cables come with various outer sheathing options, including PVC, LSZH, and PE. PVC sheathing is ideal for domestic use due to its softness, smoothness, and flexibility. In contrast, LSZH sheathing, which is more rigid and rough, is better suited for commercial and industrial applications as it emits less smoke and harmful gases in case of fire. PE sheathing offers excellent mechanical protection and durability, making it suitable for a range of fittings. We provide a range of satellite cables with PVC, LSZH, and PE sheathing to meet your specific needs.