The 50Ω Lightweight High-Temperature Cable

The RG165 is the 50Ω counterpart to the RG144, engineered for applications where impedance must be 50Ω, weight must be minimized, and temperature can reach 250°C. It combines a stranded silver-plated copper clad steel inner conductor, a single silver-plated copper braid, and a fiberglass braided jacket with a PTFE barrier to deliver reliable performance from 0.1 GHz to 3 GHz in extreme heat. At just 211 g/m, it is one of the lightest 50Ω high-temperature coaxial cables available. Its stranded conductor provides flexibility and tensile strength, while the single braid keeps the cable more pliable and lighter than double-braided alternatives like the RG115. If you need a 50Ω cable that survives 250°C and remains manageable during installation, the RG165 is the answer.

RG 166 Coax Key Features

• True 50Ω Impedance – Designed for 50Ω transmitters, receivers, and test systems.

• 3 GHz Maximum Frequency – Optimized for 0.1 GHz to 3 GHz applications.

• 5000 VRMS Maximum Voltage – High-voltage capability for transmitter and industrial use.

• 250°C Continuous Operation – fiberglass braided jacket with PTFE barrier.

• Lightweight: 211 g/m – The lightest 50Ω high-temperature cable in its class.

• Stranded Silver-Plated Copper Clad Steel Conductor – Flexible, strong, and efficient at high frequencies.

• Single Silver-Plated Copper Braid – Lower weight and greater flexibility than double-braid designs.

• High Power Handling – Up to 6100 W at 0.1 GHz, 2700 W at 0.4 GHz, 1400 W at 1 GHz, and 800 W at 3 GHz.

RG 166 Coax Construction

Why This Construction?

• Stranded Copper Clad Steel – The steel core provides high tensile strength and resistance to vibration and flex fatigue, while the silver-plated copper outer layer ensures low high-frequency loss. Stranding adds flexibility compared to solid conductors.

• Single Braid – Reduces weight and increases flexibility while still providing effective shielding for most 50Ω applications.

• Fiberglass + PTFE Barrier – The PTFE tape protects the core from fiberglass particles, while the fiberglass braid delivers 250°C thermal survival.

RG 166 Coax Applications

• Aerospace & UAV – Onboard RF links, avionics, and payload communications where weight and temperature are critical.

• High-Temperature Instrumentation – 50Ω signal routing in thermal chambers, engine test stands, and industrial sensors.

• Mil itary Communications – Rugged, lightweight 50Ω interconnects for tactical and airborne systems.

• Test & Measurement – 50Ω signal routing in high-temperature test environments.

• Antenna Systems – 50Ω receive and transmit antennas where low weight and high-temperature survival are required.

• Industrial RF Heating – Medium-power 50Ω feeds in hot environments where double-braided cables are too heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use RG165 in a 75Ω system?
A: No. The RG165 is a 50Ω cable. Using it in a 75Ω system will cause impedance mismatch, high VSWR, and potential signal degradation. Always match cable impedance to your system.

Q: Why is the inner conductor stranded instead of solid?
A: Stranding improves flexibility and resistance to vibration and flex fatigue. The copper clad steel core provides high tensile strength, while the silver-plated copper outer layer ensures low high-frequency loss.

Q: How does RG165 compare to RG115?
A: RG165 is lighter (211 g/m vs 276 g/m) and more flexible due to its single braid and stranded conductor. RG115 has a double braid for higher shielding effectiveness and operates up to 12.4 GHz. Choose RG165 for weight-sensitive 50Ω applications up to 3 GHz; choose RG115 for higher frequency or higher shielding requirements.

Q: Can this cable be bent?
A: The RG165 is designed for fixed installations. It is stiffer than flexible jumpers but lighter than other 50Ω high-power cables. Provide generous bend radii and avoid repeated flexing.

Q: Is the RG165 suitable for outdoor use?
A: The fiberglass jacket provides high-temperature and moderate weather resistance. For direct burial or extreme outdoor exposure, consider additional protection or our armored RG120.

Q: What connectors are available?
A: We offer custom 50Ω connector assemblies (SMA, N, TNC, etc.) sized for the 10.4 mm jacket. Contact us for assembly options.