What kind of coaxial cable can be used for Serial Digital Video and similar digital data transmission?
Serial Digital Video (SDV) applications normally use precision 75Ω coaxial cables. This cable is designed especially for video applications. Examples of this type of cable are Belden 8281 and 1694A. The construction of cable for SDV is critical to achieving both low error rates and long transmission distances. Coaxial cable for SDV must be of 100% copper construction for both the center conductor and the shield braid. A solid copper center conductor is preferred over stranded as it has a more predictable surface area and skin effect at high frequencies (HF). The shield should be double braid for the most consistent impedance and best shielding effectiveness. Some newer cables use a combination of foil and braid. An inner dielectric of foam polyethylene is preferred for best HF performance and maximum transmission distance. Foam dielectrics are more fragile than solid and require more careful handling and installation. Coax with solid polyethylene dielectric will have poorer HF performa
