Preparing The Coax Cables - iDirect evolution x5 Installation Manual

4.7

Preparing the Coax Cables

Use high quality coaxial cable to connect the Evolution X5 Satellite Router to the ODU
equipment. iDirect recommends that you use a solid copper center conductor, quad shield,
coaxial cable with a minimum of 60% + 40% braid and double foil shield to connect the IDU to
the ODU equipment, such as:
• RG-6 — 0.04 inch (1 mm), solid bare copper center conductor (CommScope 5782)
• RG-11 — 0.064 inch (1.6 mm), solid bare copper center conductor (5902)
The center conductor must be straight and extend 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) beyond the end of the F-
connector, and the connector should be securely crimped to the cable.
Note: iDirect does not recommend using RG-59 with solid bare copper center
conductor unless the IFL length is less than 120 feet (37 m). If lower RF
insertion loss is required due to the distant between the IDU chassis and the
ODU equipment, then RG-11 or other 75-ohm types of coax can be used.
If you use different types of coaxial cable other than the recommended quad shield RG-6 or
RG-11, the following problems can occur:
• Co-channel Interference – If signals at the same frequency are carried on long, parallel
runs of coaxial cable (for example, in cable trays, or riser) interference can occur
between the signals. Higher quality cable helps to prevent this with better shielding. Co-
channel interference causes degradation and higher packet loss rate.
• Damage to the Evolution X5 Satellite Router connectors – The chassis connectors are
designed for RG-6 or RG-11 cable and connectors. Larger cables can damage the
connectors.
• Good return loss – High quality cable and correct connectors help ensure an optimal
return loss of 10 dB or more.
• Excessive DC Resistance – Will result in excessive voltage drop across the IFL cable.
Hence, the voltage at the BUC may be too low to operate properly.
iDirect Evolution X5 Satellite Router Installation and Safety Manual
Preparing the Coax Cables
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