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TECHOMAN GUIDE: Beginner’s Guide to Coaxial Cables

Getting started with radio communications can feel overwhelming. From radios and antennas to power supplies and accessories, there’s a lot to figure out. But one crucial piece often gets overlooked: the coaxial cable!

The right coaxial cable is the lifeline of your setup - it carries signals between your transceiver and your antenna. Without the right coaxial cable, even the best radio won’t perform as it should.

At Techoman, we’re here to make things simple.  In this guide, we’ll help you understand how to choose your first coaxial cable and highlight some beginner-friendly options to get you started.

Why Coaxial Cables Matters

Your coaxial cable (or "coax") serves as the bridge between your radio and antenna. Its main job? Carrying radio frequency (RF) signals with minimal loss. While it might seem like a small detail, your choice of coax has a big impact on:

  • Signal strength
  • Interference levels
  • Long-term reliability
  • Equipment safety

If you're just getting started, your priorities should include:

  • Minimising unnecessary signal loss
  • Ensuring compatibility with your radio gear
  • Staying within budget while planning for future upgrades

That’s where quality coax cables from a trusted supplier like Techoman make all the difference.

What to Look For in a Coax Cable (Beginner’s Checklist)
Here are the top things to consider before buying your first coax cable:

1. Type of Cable

Different coax cables serve different purposes. Here are the most common: 

  • RG-58 – Flexible and affordable. Great for short cable runs, vehicle installations or portable use. Higher signal loss at higher frequencies.
  • RG-213 – Thicker and more durable. RG213 offers lower signal loss than RG-58, making it ideal for fixed station setups.
  • CFD400 / SLMR400 – Super Low-loss, high-performance cables perfect for longer runs or VHF/UHF frequencies. These cables are thicker and more rigid, but a great investment in the long run.  CFD400 and SLMR400 are our budget alternatives to LMR-400 - offering great performance without the high price tag.

2. Frequency and Power Handling

  • Operating mainly on HF bands (1.8–30 MHz)? RG58 or RG-213 may be all you need.
  • Planning to using on VHF or UHF (30 MHz and above)? Go for RG213, CFD400 or SLMR400 to minimise loss at those higher frequencies.

3. Cable Length

The longer your cable run, the more signal loss you'll experience.

  • Under 10 metres? RG-58 could be a good starting point for these shorter runs.
  • Over 10 metres? Choose RG-213, CFD400 or SLMR400 to preserve signal quality and avoid frustration for lower transmit power reaching your antenna.

4. Connector Compatibility

Check that your coax comes with the right connectors for your radio and antenna.  At Techoman, we offer pre-terminated coax cables -  so you can plug in with confidence, no tools required.

5. Quality Matters

Yes, cheaper cables are tempting - but poor shielding, bad connectors, or subpar materials can hurt your setup and your signal.

We stock both in-house and branded coax options that are built to perform and last.

Techoman’s Top Coax Picks for Beginners

Here are three solid choices for new radio operators:

1. Techoman RG-58 Coax (Stranded or Solid Core):

  • Great for short runs, vehicle installations or portable use
  • Budget-friendly, flexible, and easy to work with
  • Pre-terminated for plug-and-play convenience

2. Techoman RG-213 Premium Coax:

  • Ideal for fixed base stations
  • Handles more power and delivers better signal integrity than RG-58
  • Built to last with premium shielding

3. Techoman CFD400 / SLMR400 Super Low-Loss Coax:

  • Best for VHF/UHF or long cable runs
  • Lowest signal loss in its class
  • More rigid but offers serious performance gains
  • CFD400 and SLMR400 = our affordable alternative to LMR-400

Bonus Tip: Keep Your Cables Organised

Don’t underestimate how messy cable setups can get - especially once your station starts growing. Tangled or poorly routed coax can lead to:

  • Signal interference
  • Accidental disconnections
  • Equipment damage

Why Buy from Techoman?

We’re more than just a store -  we’re your partner in radio. Whether you're into ham, CB, or PRS radio, we’ve got the experience and gear to help you build the perfect setup.

When you buy from Techoman, you get:

  • Genuine advice from real enthusiasts
  • Quality gear at competitive prices
  • Fast delivery (Free over $150)
  • Ongoing support - before and after your purchase

Ready to Get On Air?

Choosing the right coax cable doesn’t have to be complicated. With Techoman, you're not just buying a product - you're starting a journey into a hobby that connects people worldwide.

Got questions? Browse our full range of coax cables today and if you can't find the cable you're looking for simply message our friendly team.

Let’s get you on air - the right way.