RG6U

RG-6/U is a 75-ohm coaxial cable widely used for cable television, satellite systems, and broadband distribution in residential and commercial installations. The “/U” suffix is part of a traditional naming convention and generally denotes a general-purpose, civilian-use variant rather than a specific military specification.

Construction of RG-6/U consists of a central conductor (often copper or copper-clad steel) surrounded by a dielectric insulator, typically polyethylene. This is covered by a shielding layer that combines aluminum foil with a braided copper shield, and an outer jacket made of PVC or a low-smoke, zero-halogen material. The 75-ohm impedance and shielding are designed to support relatively high-frequency signals with improved loss characteristics compared with older coaxial designs.

Performance characteristics vary by quality, but RG-6/U is commonly specified to operate up to about 1 GHz or higher. Attenuation increases with frequency and length, so losses are a practical consideration in longer runs or higher-frequency applications. The construction and shielding help minimize interference from external sources.

Common applications include distributing cable TV signals, connecting satellite dishes, and providing in-building broadband networks. Connectors most often used with consumer installations are F-type connectors, though BNC and other connectors may appear on some equipment.

In installation, outdoor-rated jackets are preferred for exterior runs, and proper termination with suitable crimp or compression connectors is important. Avoid sharp bends and maintain a sufficient bend radius to preserve shielding and signal integrity.