Introducing the difference between coaxial cables and LAN cables and tips on how to choose the right one

Coaxial cables and LAN cables have different structures and signal formats, and each has its own optimal application. By choosing the appropriate cable, you can create a more efficient communication environment.

So, in this article, we will explain in detail the differences between the two and how to use them specifically for those who are having trouble choosing a cable.

Difference between coaxial cable and LAN cable

Coaxial cables and LAN cables play an important role in network construction. Each has its own characteristic structure and performance, so it is important to use them according to the purpose. Here we will explain the differences between the two in detail.

	Coaxial cables	LAN cable
Construction	A cylindrical structure in which the central conductor is covered with an insulator and a shield	Made of eight twisted copper wires
Signal Format	Unbalanced (50Ω/75Ω)	Twisted pair system
Main uses	Television and video signal transmission	Computer Network Connection
Transmission distance	Maximum 500m (standard)	Maximum 100m
communication speed	Maximum 1Gbps (downstream), 100Mbps (upstream)	Up to 40Gbps (same speed for upload and download)
Installation Features	Specialized skills required	Relatively easy installation
cost	Construction cost: Approximately 1 yen per meter	Construction cost: Approximately 1 yen per location
Shielding performance	High-performance shielding as standard	No UTP, yes STP

Structural difference

Each cable has a unique construction that determines its performance and applications.

Coaxial cables have a four-layer structure, consisting of, from the inside out, a copper wire (inner conductor) that transmits electrical signals, an insulator, an outer conductor for shielding, and a protective vinyl coating. This structure effectively prevents electromagnetic wave leakage and external noise.

On the other hand, LAN cables are made up of eight twisted copper wires, and come in two types: solid wire and twisted wire. Solid wire is characterized by stable communication using a single thick copper wire, while twisted wire is made of seven thin copper wires bundled together for flexibility. Depending on whether they are shielded or not, they are divided into UTP (unshielded) and STP (shielded), and you can choose the type based on your needs.

The connectors are also different: coaxial cables use F-type or BNC type connectors, while LAN cables use RJ-45 connectors. Both require precise machining for high-speed communication.

Differences in signal formats

Coaxial cables and LAN cables each use their own unique signal transmission methods, which gives them different characteristics.

Coaxial cables use a signal transmission method known as the unbalanced method. By passing electrical signals through the center conductor and using the outer conductor as a ground, high frequency signals can be transmitted efficiently. This structure makes it less susceptible to external electromagnetic waves and minimizes signal loss.

The impedance characteristics of coaxial cables are particularly important. There are two types, 50Ω and 75Ω, depending on the application. 2Ω is used for wireless device communication, and 50Ω is used for television broadcasting. Matching the impedance prevents signal reflection and enables more efficient transmission.

On the other hand, LAN cables use eight copper wires in a twisted pair structure to transmit signals using the LVDS method, which sends complementary signals over two wires to cancel out the effects of external noise and achieve stable communication.

Differences in use

Coaxial cables and LAN cables are used for different purposes, taking advantage of their respective characteristics.

Coaxial cables are primarily used to connect television antennas and transmit video and audio signals. They have the ability to transmit high-frequency signals efficiently, and are designed to be less susceptible to external electromagnetic waves. What is particularly important is that the impedance differs depending on the application. The 50Ω type is used for wireless device communications, and the 75Ω type is used for television broadcasting.

On the other hand, LAN cables are mainly used to build computer networks. They connect digital devices such as PCs and game consoles to routers and hubs to enable Internet communication. They are especially useful for online games that require stable communication, and in office environments where large amounts of data need to be transferred.

Differences in transmission distance

When selecting a cable, transmission distance is an important criterion.

Theoretically, LAN cables can transmit data up to 100m, but in practice, the safe range is 80m, taking into account the increase in conductive resistance during high temperatures in the summer. Any distance beyond this is likely to cause signal degradation and slower communication speeds.

On the other hand, the transmission distance of coaxial cables varies depending on the application and type. A typical RG59U cable can transmit up to about 300m, and a RG6U cable can transmit up to about 500m. Furthermore, by using a special transmitter, long-distance transmission of up to 2,000m can be achieved.

Differences in communication speed

Communication speed is an important factor when selecting a cable for your application.

The communication speed of coaxial cable varies greatly depending on the system used. The general HFC system has a maximum speed of about 200Mbps, but the latest FTTH system allows high-speed communication of up to 1Gbps. However, there is a large difference between the upload and download communication speeds, and even if the download speed is up to 1Gbps, the upload speed is generally limited to about 100Mbps.

On the other hand, the communication speed of LAN cables is clearly defined by the standard (category). The most common Cat5e is 1Gbps, Cat6 is 1Gbps (higher frequency band), Cat6A is 10Gbps, Cat7 is 10Gbps (higher frequency band and excellent noise suppression), and the latest Cat8 achieves high-speed communication of 40Gbps. Cat7 is particularly suitable for use in industrial environments and has high shielding performance and reliability. In addition, the upstream and downstream speeds are symmetrical in all categories.

Differences in installation methods

The installation method will affect the difficulty and cost of the work.

Installing coaxial cable requires specialized skills and tools. Installing the F-type connector in particular requires careful work, such as stripping the cable, cutting the insulation and aluminum foil to the correct length, and accurately installing the connector.

On the other hand, installing a LAN cable is relatively easy. For in-wall wiring, you use a wire to pull the cable through the duct and attach LAN jacks to both ends. For exposed wiring, you can simply secure it to the wall or floor using a cable guide or cable hook.

How to use coaxial cables and LAN cables

By understanding the characteristics of each cable and using them appropriately for each application, you can create a more efficient network environment.

We will introduce how to use each one.

When used in video/broadcasting systems

Signal stability and quality are important factors in video and broadcasting systems.

Coaxial cables have the characteristic of being able to transmit high-frequency signals efficiently, and are characterized by their structure that makes them less susceptible to external electromagnetic waves. 75Ω coaxial cables are used particularly in broadcasting systems, and can stably transmit high-frequency signals such as those used in 4K/8K satellite broadcasts.

On the other hand, the use of LAN cables is also increasing with the shift to IP broadcasting systems. Coaxial cables were the mainstream for conventional SDI video transmission, but with the emergence of high-resolution video such as 4K/8K, it has become necessary to bundle multiple coaxial cables together. For this reason, there is a shift to the IP system, which allows integrated handling of video, audio, and camera control over a single LAN cable.

When used for data communication

Stability and speed are important factors in data communication.

LAN cables have ideal characteristics for data communication. The latest Cat8 standard allows high-speed communication of up to 40 Gbps, and because the upload and download speeds are symmetrical, large volumes of data can be sent and received smoothly. In addition, because the cable is not easily affected by electromagnetic waves, it can maintain a stable communication speed even when there is an obstruction.

On the other hand, coaxial cables have limitations when it comes to data communication. The communication speed is asymmetrical, with a maximum download speed of 1 Gbps and an upload speed of about 100 Mbps, making it unsuitable for bidirectional communication of large amounts of data.

Points to consider when choosing between coaxial cable and LAN cable

Selecting the appropriate cable for your application and environment is essential to creating a stable communications environment.

Here are three points to consider when choosing between coaxial cable and LAN cable.

Select by performance

In terms of performance, it is important to select a cable with the appropriate standard depending on the application.

LAN cables have clearly defined communication performance according to their category. You can choose from the common Cat5e to the latest Cat8 depending on your application. When you need high-speed communication in both directions, a LAN cable with symmetrical upload and download speeds is recommended.

Coaxial cables have different performance characteristics depending on the impedance. The 50Ω type is used for wireless communication, and the 75Ω type is used for television broadcasting.

Select based on installation conditions

The installation environment directly affects the performance and durability of the cable, so it is important to select a cable that is suitable for the environment.

Depending on the conditions of the installation location, it is necessary to carefully select the type and specifications of the cable. The selection criteria for LAN cables vary depending on the wiring distance; for distances of 10m or more, a single-wire type with excellent signal stability is used, and for distances of 5m or less, a flexible twisted-wire type is used. In addition, flat or slim LAN cables are convenient when passing through narrow spaces or gaps in window frames.

Coaxial cables have a high shielding effect due to the outer conductor, making them suitable for wiring in environments with many electronic devices. The use of coaxial cables is particularly recommended near devices that use high frequencies or in places where electromagnetic interference is a concern. In addition, for outdoor use or in hot and humid environments, it is necessary to select special coaxial cables that take into account weather resistance and heat resistance.

Choose by installation cost

Coaxial cable wiring work is relatively inexpensive, costing about 1 yen per meter. For basic wiring work, the basic fee often includes up to 1,100 meters, so you can keep costs down even if additional wiring is required. In addition, material costs are cheaper than optical fiber cables, making it excellent cost performance.

On the other hand, the installation of LAN cables costs about 1 to 7,000 yen per location. In addition, when building a network, you must also consider the cost of peripheral devices. Specifically, a router will cost 15,000 to 7,000 yen, a hub will cost 10,000 to 3,000 yen, and network setup costs will be about 5,000 to 7,000 yen, so the cost for just the equipment will be about 8,000 to 2 yen.

However, it is important to make a comprehensive decision, including future scalability and communication speed. Even if you are attracted to the low initial cost, it may be difficult to expand or update in the future. Especially in environments such as offices where future equipment additions and changes in placement are expected, it is necessary to consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term operating cost.

Summary

Coaxial cables and LAN cables each have different characteristics and advantages. Coaxial cables are less susceptible to electromagnetic waves and are suitable for long-distance transmission, and are primarily used for transmitting television broadcasts and video signals. On the other hand, LAN cables are capable of high-speed two-way communication and are ideal for building computer networks.

It is important to select the appropriate cable after comprehensively considering the purpose, installation environment, cost, etc. and understanding the characteristics of each cable. This will help you achieve a more efficient and stable communication environment.