This tool computes the attenuation loss of a user-specified length of LMR-600 RF coaxial cable [1].
To use the insertion loss calculator use the tool below. Enter:
- Cable length and the units (feet/inches/meters)
- Frequency of operation in MHz
Background
LMR cables are made by Times Microwave. They come in different varieties differentiated by a numerical suffix. For instance LMR 200, LMR 400 – each with different electrical attributes. The frequency of operation can be as high as 8 GHz making them suitable for everything from HF to Wi-Fi 6e.
The cable has an outer conductor (shield) and an inner conductor (coaxial cable), which are separated by a dielectric material. The cable also has a Jacket (outer cover) that protects the inner conductors from environmental damage.
What is LMR-600?
LMR-600 cables can be used for a number of different RF applications including GPS, LMR, WLAN, WISP or WiMax, requiring an easily routed,
low loss RF cable.
There are 6 different types of LMR cables:
- LMR-600
- LMR-600-DB
- LMR-600-FR
- LMR-600-FR-PVC
- LMR-600-PVC
- LMR-600-PVC-W
The main difference between these different LMR-600 cables is in the jacket material and color.
The longer the cable the greater the insertion loss. As well, insertion loss increases with operating frequency.
What does LMR stand for?
LMR stands for Land Mobile Radio. Typical LMR frequencies are in the VHF and UHF (30 MHz to 512 MHz) range. However LMR cables can be used for frequencies up to 8 GHz.
What is the impact of insertion loss?
Insertion loss or attenuation reduces the signal level. In a transmitter this reduces the transmitted signal level and therefore range. In a receiver, any cable length at the front of the receiver – after the antenna – directly impacts (degrades) receiver sensitivity.
References
[1] Coaxial Cable on Wikipedia
[2] LMR 600 data sheet from Times Microwave