Wire type for motor installations

[helgansven]

is there an argument (either way) for using solid copper core wire vs. the standard steel core wire for motor installations?

[BYX]

Originally Posted by helgansven

is there an argument (either way) for using solid copper core wire vs. the standard steel core wire for motor installations?

I use stranded for my C band motor.

[Sadoun]

The longer the distance the more the resistance in the wire. Copper has less resistance than steel. That is why it is a better conductor and better recommended.

[helgansven]

great, thanks for the answer Sadoun.

[helgansven]

one more question on this if you don't mind.

the run from the stab hh120 to the stb is approx. 80'

what do you feel about the difference between copper core rg6 vs. steel core rg11?

[Vitruvius]

I have copper RG6 running 150 feet to a Diseqc Switch and it works fine. 80 feet should be fine with RG6 copper or copper clad steel. If it is a lot of work for you, use the best product, which is the copper.

I have not use RG11, but I hear it is the best to get for signal on very long distances. I don't know how the copper clad RG11 rates.

[Sadoun]

RG11 has thicker center conductor wire, so the current flows easier

[Vitruvius]

OH, Ok... maybe you could shed more specific light on this issue...

The thicker the wire, the easier the electrical 'current' flows, so RG11 is better for the power to be sent to a small dish motor.
Does the thicker wire also help with the signal from the antenna? I suspect so, but is the reason to go to the thicker wire usually to get easier passage of power 'current'?

[Sadoun]

Imagine the wire is like a water pipe. The bigger the pipe, the more and easier the flow. That applies to signal as well.

[Vitruvius]

Cool... thanks...

[bobkat]

RG11 is fine if:

a) you can afford it
b) you don't mind working with it - it is really bulky and stiff.

I have never had a problem with RG6 even with runs in excess of 300 feet. Go with the good stuff like Belden or Commscope.

kat