Micro Coaxial Cable factory

How does temperature affect micro coaxial cable performance

In modern electronics, micro coaxial cables are vital for high – frequency signal transmission. However, temperature is a significant environmental factor influencing their performance.

Understanding Micro Coaxial Cables

Micro coaxial cables consist of a central conductor (usually copper or alloy), an insulating dielectric (e.g., polyethylene, PTFE), and an outer metal shield. Their compact size enables efficient signal transmission across GHz frequencies, suitable for 5G, radar, and HD video applications.

Impact of Temperature on Material Properties

Central Conductor

Metals like copper in the central conductor see resistance increase by about 0.4% per °C rise. Increased atomic vibrations disrupt electron flow, leading to higher cable losses.

Dielectric Material

Dielectrics respond differently to temperature. PTFE – based dielectrics are stable, while materials like polyethylene may change. Temperature – induced changes in dielectric constant can slow signal speed and increase losses.

Outer Conductor (Shield)

Differences in thermal expansion coefficients can cause thermal stress in the outer conductor. Repeated thermal cycling may fatigue the shield, reducing its interference – protection effectiveness.

Effects on Electrical Performance

Insertion Loss

Temperature raises insertion loss by increasing central conductor resistance and dielectric loss. For high – frequency cables, a 10°C increase can lead to an insertion loss increase of around 0.1 dB/m.

Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR)

Temperature – related material expansion/contraction alters cable dimensions, changing impedance and increasing VSWR. A significant temperature change can worsen VSWR from 1.2:1 to 1.5:1 or higher, reducing signal efficiency.

Phase Delay

Temperature affects the dielectric constant, impacting signal propagation speed and phase delay. In applications like radar, a 1°C change can cause a phase shift leading to calculation errors.

Real – World Applications and Considerations

Aerospace and Defense

Used in extreme temperature environments, aerospace micro coaxial cables need materials with low – temperature coefficients and undergo thermal cycling tests.

Telecommunications

In outdoor telecom installations, temperature can cause dropped connections in 5G base stations. Solutions include temperature – compensated cables and environmental controls.

Consumer Electronics

In devices like smartphones, temperature changes can affect cable performance, reducing signal reception. Manufacturers optimize routing and insulation.

Mitigating the Effects of Temperature

Material Selection

Choose central conductors with low temperature coefficients (e.g., silver – plated copper), stable dielectrics (e.g., PTFE), and outer conductors with matched thermal expansion.

Cable Design

Use geometries like helical – wound conductors to maintain impedance. Add insulation or heat – dissipating elements.

Thermal Management

Employ heat sinks, fans, or insulation to control cable temperature, especially in data centers.