What is RG59 Cable? Features, Uses & Complete Buying Guide

RG59 cable is one of the most widely used 75 Ohm coaxial cables designed for transmitting low-frequency radio frequency (RF) signals and analog video signals with excellent reliability. It is commonly used in CCTV surveillance systems, video transmission, cable television, satellite equipment, security cameras, and broadcast applications.

Although newer technologies such as IP cameras and fiber optics are becoming increasingly popular, RG59 cable continues to be a preferred choice for short-distance analog video installations due to its affordability, flexibility, and ease of installation.

This comprehensive buying guide explains everything you need to know about RG59 cable, including its construction, specifications, applications, advantages, limitations, and tips for selecting the right cable for your project.

What is RG59 Cable?

RG59 (Radio Guide 59) is a type of 75 Ohm coaxial cable specifically designed for low-loss transmission of video and RF signals over relatively short distances.

The cable consists of a center conductor surrounded by dielectric insulation, a braided or foil shield, and an outer protective jacket. This construction minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI) while maintaining consistent signal quality.

RG59 is particularly suitable for frequencies up to approximately 1 GHz and is widely used in analog CCTV systems and video distribution networks.

Construction of RG59 Cable

The performance of RG59 cable depends on its four primary layers.

Center Conductor

The center conductor carries the electrical signal.

Common materials include:

Solid Bare Copper
Copper-Clad Steel
Tinned Copper

Solid copper conductors provide better performance for CCTV camera systems, especially where power and video are transmitted together.

Dielectric Insulation

The dielectric separates the conductor from the shield while maintaining constant impedance.

Common dielectric materials include:

Solid Polyethylene
Foam Polyethylene
Gas Injected Foam

Shield Layer

The shield protects transmitted signals from external interference.

Shield options include:

Copper Braid
Aluminum Braid
Aluminum Foil
Dual Shield
Quad Shield

Higher shielding percentages provide better protection against signal noise.

Outer Jacket

The outer jacket protects the cable against environmental damage.

Popular jacket materials include:

PVC
PE
LSZH
UV Resistant Polyethylene

Outdoor installations require UV-resistant jackets for maximum durability.

Technical Specifications of RG59 Cable

SpecificationTypical ValueCable TypeRG59 Coaxial CableImpedance75 OhmFrequency RangeDC to 1 GHz (Typical)Center ConductorSolid Copper / Copper Clad SteelDielectricFoam PE / Solid PEShieldCopper Braid / Aluminum BraidOuter JacketPVC / PE / LSZHCharacteristic Impedance75 ΩSignal TypeAnalog Video & RF

Types of RG59 Cable

Several RG59 cable variants are available depending on installation requirements.

Standard RG59 Cable

Used for indoor CCTV installations and short-distance video transmission.

RG59 with Power Cable

Also known as Siamese cable, this version combines the coaxial cable with two power conductors, allowing both video and power to be supplied through a single cable.

Ideal for:

CCTV Cameras
DVR Systems
Security Installations

Outdoor RG59 Cable

Designed with UV-resistant jackets and moisture protection for outdoor environments.

Suitable for:

Outdoor Cameras
Parking Areas
Industrial Sites
Campus Security

Plenum Rated RG59

Designed for installation in air-handling spaces while meeting fire safety regulations.

Applications of RG59 Cable

RG59 cable is used across numerous industries.

CCTV Surveillance Systems

The most common application of RG59 cable is connecting analog security cameras to DVR systems.

Cable Television

Used for cable TV signal distribution in residential and commercial buildings.

Broadcast Equipment

Widely used in television studios and professional video production.

Satellite Systems

Suitable for certain satellite receivers and RF equipment operating at lower frequencies.

Video Monitoring Systems

Used in:

Shopping malls
Airports
Offices
Hospitals
Warehouses

Home Entertainment

Ideal for:

DVD Players
Video Distribution
Set-top Boxes
Older Television Systems

Industrial Security

Factories and manufacturing facilities continue to use RG59 for analog surveillance systems.

Advantages of RG59 Cable

RG59 offers several benefits that make it a reliable solution for video transmission.

Excellent Video Quality

Provides clear analog video transmission with minimal distortion over short distances.

Cost-Effective

RG59 cable is one of the most affordable coaxial cable options available.

Easy Installation

Its flexibility allows installers to route cables through walls, ceilings, and conduits with ease.

Reliable Performance

Offers stable signal transmission for CCTV and RF applications.

Wide Compatibility

Compatible with:

BNC Connectors
DVR Systems
CCTV Cameras
Video Switches
RF Equipment

Low Signal Reflection

The consistent 75 Ohm impedance reduces signal reflections and improves transmission quality.

Limitations of RG59 Cable

Despite its popularity, RG59 has certain limitations.

Higher attenuation than RG6
Not suitable for long-distance installations
Limited bandwidth compared to modern coaxial cables
Less effective for high-frequency satellite applications
Lower shielding than premium coaxial cables

RG59 vs RG6 Cable

FeatureRG59RG6Impedance75 Ohm75 OhmCenter ConductorSmallerLargerSignal LossHigherLowerMaximum DistanceShortLongFlexibilityExcellentModerateCCTV SystemsExcellentGoodCable TVGoodExcellentBroadband InternetLimitedExcellent

How to Choose the Right RG59 Cable

Selecting the proper RG59 cable depends on several factors.

Installation Location

Choose indoor or outdoor cable depending on environmental conditions.

Shielding

Higher braid coverage provides better protection from EMI and signal interference.

Conductor Material

Solid copper conductors deliver better signal quality than copper-clad steel in CCTV applications.

Cable Length

Long cable runs increase signal attenuation. For extended distances, consider RG6 or active transmission solutions.

Jacket Type

Select:

PVC for indoor use
PE for outdoor installations
LSZH for commercial buildings

Connector Compatibility

Ensure compatibility with:

BNC Connectors
F Connectors
RCA Adapters
Video Equipment

Installation Tips

For optimal performance:

Avoid sharp bends.
Keep cables away from power lines.
Use quality BNC connectors.
Secure cables properly.
Protect outdoor cables from moisture.
Test signal quality after installation.
Use weatherproof connectors outdoors.

Common Problems with RG59 Cable

Some common issues include:

Signal attenuation
Poor image quality
Loose connectors
Shield damage
Water ingress
Connector corrosion
Cable bending damage

Regular inspection helps prevent these issues.

Why Choose High-Quality RG59 Cable?

Premium RG59 cable provides:

Better shielding
Longer service life
Improved video quality
Reduced maintenance
Stable signal transmission
Easier installation
Greater durability

High-quality cables reduce installation failures and improve overall system reliability.

Conclusion

RG59 cable remains one of the most trusted coaxial cables for analog video transmission and CCTV surveillance systems. Its flexibility, affordability, and dependable performance make it an excellent choice for residential, commercial, and industrial security installations. By selecting the correct conductor material, shielding, jacket type, and connectors, you can ensure reliable signal transmission and long-lasting performance. Whether installing a home security system or upgrading a commercial surveillance network, choosing a premium-quality RG59 cable will deliver dependable results for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is RG59 cable used for?

RG59 cable is mainly used for CCTV cameras, analog video transmission, cable television, security systems, and RF applications.

2. Is RG59 a 50 Ohm or 75 Ohm cable?

RG59 is a 75 Ohm coaxial cable designed primarily for video and broadcast applications.

3. What connector is used with RG59 cable?

The most common connector is the BNC connector, although F-type and RCA connectors may also be used depending on the application.

4. What is the maximum distance for RG59 cable?

For CCTV applications, RG59 typically supports up to 225–300 meters (approximately 750–1,000 feet) depending on signal quality, cable construction, and equipment.

5. Can RG59 cable be used outdoors?

Yes. Outdoor-rated RG59 cables with UV-resistant and weatherproof jackets are specifically designed for external installations.

6. What is the difference between RG59 and RG6?

RG6 has a larger conductor, better shielding, and lower signal loss, making it more suitable for longer cable runs and broadband applications, while RG59 is ideal for short-distance analog video systems.

7. Is RG59 suitable for HD CCTV cameras?

RG59 can support HD-over-Coax technologies such as HD-TVI, AHD, and HD-CVI when used within the recommended transmission distances.

8. Does RG59 cable carry power?

A standard RG59 cable carries only the signal. However, RG59 Siamese cable includes separate power wires, allowing both video and power to be transmitted together.

9. How long does RG59 cable last?

A high-quality RG59 cable installed correctly can provide 10 to 20 years of reliable service, depending on environmental conditions and usage.

10. How do I choose the best RG59 cable?

Choose an RG59 cable based on conductor material, shielding quality, cable length, installation environment, jacket type, and connector compatibility to achieve the best performance.