Specific differences between RG59 and RG6 cables?

MrEx · #1 08-31-2020, 06:14 AM

I was looking around the web and found conflicting info on BNC cable connector types. My only experience is using a BNC to connect my audio interface to a digital sound module for sync—and the guy who made my cables just threw it in for free, so I'm not even sure which type it is. I just know it works great.

Some said the connectors are incompatible and RG6 won't fit RG59. Others say RG6 is simply more robust of a cable, has more shielding and is better quality and should be used for most applications where quality is important. One source said RG59 was required for some analog CCTV cameras, but didn't say why.

I'm also curious about data rates between RG59 and RG6. Can both types handle both SD and modern data rates for HD, 3G, 6G etc.? Do older cables hold up with high data rates? Are higher gauge wires recommended for certain things regardless of connector type? Any difference when choosing a cable meant for an a/v signal and one for sync reference?

Anyway, was just curious as I'm starting to put together an I/O setup and want to get a good handle on the cables and connector types, especially with A/D converters. I did see there are differences in how long the cable runs can be, but since I don't need to run a cable to the next town, I'm more interested in how these might differ when working in one room, or a house, or small office/studio.

Thanks

latreche34 · #2 08-31-2020, 11:00 AM

Mainly data rate and long runs.

lordsmurf · #3 09-02-2020, 01:28 AM

RG6 is just better gauge wire, better shielding. RG6 can be used in place of RG59, but not vice versa.

dpalomaki · #4 09-09-2020, 05:31 AM

For a detailed discussion of differences and applications see:
https://sewelldirect.com/blogs/learn...n-rg59-and-rg6

LS edit -- Good article! PDF version attached, for posterity.

HadriaGuy · #5 03-08-2021, 11:24 AM

Hi...as per my understanding the frequencies that are used in High Definition are usually around 37 MHz. For those lower frequencies, an RG59 with a 95% all-copper shield is designed to block RFI inclusion at base band frequencies. Because RG59 does not have a foil shield, it shouldn’t be utilized for satellite feeds or cable feeds.