Copper vs. Copper Covered Steel conductor

[aegrotatio]

I'd like to know the difference between Copper and Copper Covered Steel conductors. My needs are for FTA and DiSH Pro Plus, so I'm assuming that means 5 MHz through 2300 MHz. The cable length from LNFB to receiver is going to be 100 feet or longer through at least 10 connections--wall plates, DiSeqC, H-H motor (350 milliamps), and inline amplifier.

What does the use of Copper vs. Copper-Clad mean for cable lengths, signal integrity, amplifier slope, and the current carried to the H-H motor, amplifier, LNBF, and DiSeqC switch?

Thanks!

[Sadoun]

Solid Copper core coaxial cable is a better conductor of signal thn Copper Clad Steel (CCS) core cable. However, copper is softer than steel. Both will work fine for 100ft.

[pmb1010]

And I'll add this in, quality of cable can vary greatly.

THere seem to be a lot of cable manufacturers out there, often creating sub quality cable, which sells cheap and works lousy. Most often, this cable is unmarked, or labeled with such unrecognizable markings, that I'd consider it suspect and pay approrpiate prices.

The cable companies installer guys are a great source for lengths of cable up to 100 feet. Often they will give you a piece when they are rewiring a home, during a digital cable upgrade. Hand the guy a can of cola on a hot day, ask if there are any leftover hunks of coax laying around. You'd be surprized they just give it up no problem. For digital installs they use good stuff.

Other than that, sticking with a brand name like Belden can assure good quality. That, over center conductor type is what I'd consider when evaluating cable purchases.

[Sadoun]

Also, what makes a good quality cable is the shielding, insulation, and tight tolerance on wire diameter.

http://sadoun.com/Sat/Order/Install/Coaxial-Cables.htm

[aegrotatio]

Thanks for all the great info. I used some left-over from a recent installation and have mixed feelings about it. It appears to be non-UL-listed PerfectVision. It feels greasy and cheap. I'll take a look at what you have here and place an order.

Thanks again!