RF Cable Attenuation Calculator
This calculator estimates attenuation in common 50 Ohm coaxial RF cables used in antenna systems, Wi-Fi installations, LTE/5G systems and radio communication networks.
Select a cable type, enter cable length and choose the operating frequency. The calculator will estimate total cable loss in dB.
Calculator
Supported RF cable types
- MRC240 / LMR240 / RF240
- H-155 / RF5 / WC-55
- RF10 / H-1000 / LMR400 / RF400
- RG-316
- RG-174/U / Belden 7805
Why cable attenuation matters
Cable attenuation directly reduces the RF signal level between the radio device and the antenna. The longer the cable and the higher the frequency, the more important cable selection becomes.
At 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz, losses in thin coaxial cables can become significant. For longer cable runs, low-loss cable types such as RF10 / H-1000 / LMR400 class cables are usually recommended.
Modern RG-174/U cable construction
Many users associate traditional RG-174 cables with older low-frequency coaxial constructions. However, RG-174/U type cables may be manufactured in different constructions and quality grades.
Interline uses high-quality RG-174/U type cable comparable to Belden 7805 class cable. This type of cable is used where small diameter, flexibility and compact routing are important, especially inside compact antenna systems and dual-band Wi-Fi antennas.
The construction and quality of the cable are more important than the simplified cable name alone. This is why a professionally selected RG-174/U type cable can be used in modern 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz antenna systems when the cable length is short and the installation is designed correctly.
Important notes
- The calculator gives approximate attenuation values.
- Actual loss depends on cable manufacturer, cable quality, temperature, connectors and installation method.
- Connector losses are not included in the calculation.
- For precise projects, measured cable assembly data should be used.
For professional antenna systems, Interline can prepare RF cable assemblies with appropriate connectors and measurement documentation.