If the wrong type RG cable is used in a system, what could happen?

If the wrong type RG cable is used in a system, what could happen?

• A. Improved signal integrity
• B. No effect on operation
• C. Equipment damage and system failure
• D. Minor attenuation

Answer: (C)

The key idea is impedance matching in RF transmission lines. Coax cables like RG types have a characteristic impedance (commonly 50 Ω or 75 Ω), and RF equipment is designed to see a specific impedance. Using a cable with the wrong impedance in the line causes reflections of the transmitted power back toward the source. Those reflections create a high standing-wave ratio (VSWR), which can stress the transmitter’s output stage, cause overheating, trigger protective mechanisms, or even damage the amplifier and other components. In effect, the system can fail or fail to operate correctly because the energy isn’t being transferred cleanly to the load. While mismatches can also lead to increased attenuation and degraded signal quality, the most serious consequence tied to using the wrong RG cable is potential equipment damage and system failure.

The key idea is impedance matching in RF transmission lines. Coax cables like RG types have a characteristic impedance (commonly 50 Ω or 75 Ω), and RF equipment is designed to see a specific impedance. Using a cable with the wrong impedance in the line causes reflections of the transmitted power back toward the source. Those reflections create a high standing-wave ratio (VSWR), which can stress the transmitter’s output stage, cause overheating, trigger protective mechanisms, or even damage the amplifier and other components. In effect, the system can fail or fail to operate correctly because the energy isn’t being transferred cleanly to the load. While mismatches can also lead to increased attenuation and degraded signal quality, the most serious consequence tied to using the wrong RG cable is potential equipment damage and system failure.