Coaxial cable refers to an inner conductor enclosed by an insulating layer, which is enclosed by conductive shielding. Many cables also comprise an insulating outer jacket.
This type of cable is used for the transmission of data, internet, video, and voice communications.
Key Takeaways
- RG6 is a type of coaxial cable used for transmitting high-frequency signals, such as cable television and the internet.
- RG6-U is an upgraded version of RG6, with higher shielding effectiveness and better signal transmission quality.
- RG6-U is more expensive than RG6, but it provides better signal quality and is recommended for applications that require high signal transmission rates.
RG6 vs RG6/U
RG6 stands for Radio Guide and electrical features of a cable, and it is a military specification that describes coaxial cables, which are used to carry radio waves for communication. RG6/U is a special type of coaxial cable that is used underground, and it is used for many electrical purposes.
RG 6 is a coaxial cable that is a single-unit conductor. It was used for bulk radiofrequency. RG stands for Radio Guide, and 6 stands for the cable’s electrical characteristics. The U.S. Military uses it for communication.
It is used in cable television wiring.
RG6/U is a coaxial cable almost identical to the RG6 coaxial cable. There are many assumptions as to what the U in RG6/U stands for. The most common ones include that it stands for underground, UV resistance, or Universal.
All these three properties make the cable ideal for all purposes.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | RG6 | RG6/U |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | It was a military specification for coaxial cables. These served the purpose of carrying radio waves for communication. | It is almost a similar coaxial cable used today for many different electrical purposes. |
| Terminology | RG stands for Radio Guide, and 6 stands for the cable’s electrical characteristics. | RG stands for Radio Guide, and there are many speculations as to what the U stands for. |
| Underground | RG6 cables can be used on the flooring. | According to the first speculation, U stands for Underground, meaning these cables can be used underground. |
| UV Rays | These can be used for indoor wiring. | According to the second speculation, U stands for UV rays, meaning they are UV resistant and can be used outdoors. |
| Universal | Their usage has certain limitations. | Another speculation states that U stands for Universal, meaning they can be used for all purposes. |
What is RG6?
RG6 refers to a common type of coaxial cable. This cable is used for various different types of residential and commercial purposes. RG6 is now a generic term that is applied to different cable designs.
These cable designs are different from each other on the basis of their dielectric type, shielding characteristics, and centre conductor composition.
The term, RG-6, is generic and is applied to a wide variety of cable designs, which differ from one another in shielding characteristics, centre conductor composition, and jacket type.
In the beginning, RG was a unit conductor that was used for bulk radiofrequency. RG stands for Radio Guide, and 6 stands for the cable’s electrical characteristics. It was used by the U.S. Military for communication.
The unit conductor is not used in military operations as it does not meet the specifications.
The ‘/U’ to the RG6 was added later on. Currently, RG6 is a term that is used for referring to the coaxial cables having 18 AWG centre conductors and 75-ohm characteristic or surge impedance. CATV is one of the common types of coaxial cables.
These are used for routing cable television signals to and within homes. 75-ohm cables are also helpful in professional video applications.
What is RG6/U?
RG6/U is almost the same type of coaxial cable as RG6. Even here, the RG stands for Radio Guide, and 6 stands for electrical characteristics of the cable. This coaxial cable is used for many different electrical purposes.
The coaxial cables share almost the same characteristics. The additional U created the difference between the two in RG6/U. The speculations suggest many theories, including Underground, UV resistance, and Universal.
It is assumed that the U means underground or burial. This means that the coaxial cable can be buried into the ground. The UV resistance assumption implies that UV radiation has no effect on the coaxial cable.
The Universal assumption means that the coaxial cable can be used for all purposes. This is because the cable is assumed to be UV resistant and can be buried as well.
Altogether it makes the cable ideal for outdoor purposes. It can sustain the weather and other corroding factors as well. The manufacturers also have control over the construction of the cables.
The cables can also have extra shielding, making them stronger. The stronger the cable, the better it may work or work for longer. These cables are also popularly used in the wiring of cable TV systems.
Main Differences Between RG6 and RG6/U
- RG6 was a military specification for coaxial cables. These served the purpose of carrying radio waves for communication. RG6/U is almost a similar coaxial cable used today for many different electrical purposes.
- RG stands for Radio Guide, and 6 stands for the electrical characteristics of the cable. In RG6/U, RG stands for Radio Guide, and there are many speculations as to what the U stands for.
- RG6 cables can be used on the flooring. According to the first speculation U in RG6/U stands for Underground, meaning these cables can be used underground.
- RG6 cables can be used for indoor wiring. According to the second speculation U in RG6/U stands for UV rays, meaning they are UV resistant and can be used outdoors.
- The usage of RG6 cables has certain limitations. Another speculation states that U in RG6/U stands for Universal, meaning they can be used for all purposes.
Last Updated : 13 July, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The historical context provided about the origin and use of RG6 was fascinating. It laid a strong foundation for understanding its evolution and applications.
Your explanation of the application of RG6 and RG6/U cables is very enlightening. The insights provided are incredibly valuable for anyone who works with these types of cables.
I couldn’t agree more. The detailed comparison table perfectly illustrates the distinguishing features of each type of coaxial cable.
The description of RG6 and RG6/U is well-structured and informative. It’s evident that the author has a deep understanding of the subject matter.
Thank you for the comprehensive comparison between RG6 and RG6/U coaxial cables. This clearly highlights the key differences and applications of both types of cables.
The comparison table for RG6 and RG6/U provided a succinct yet comprehensive overview of their characteristics. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on their respective applications.
The in-depth analysis of RG6 and RG6/U cables, along with the elaboration on their differences, is commendable. This is an excellent resource for those seeking detailed knowledge about coaxial cables.
Absolutely. The comparison provided valuable insights into the technological and practical aspects of RG6 and RG6/U cables.
The potential applications and benefits of RG6/U, especially as an outdoor cable, were effectively conveyed in this comprehensive piece. I found it to be incredibly educational.
The meticulous approach to explaining the nuances of RG6 and RG6/U showcased a high level of expertise in the subject matter. It’s evident that the author has a deep understanding of coaxial cables.
I appreciate the clear and concise explanation of RG6 and RG6/U. The inclusion of the main differences between the two was particularly helpful.