Coaxial cables carry radio-frequency signals for home and pro setups. You’ll see them used to connect:

• TV and antenna: From an over-the-air antenna or wall jack to your TV or tuner.
• Satellite and cable boxes: From a dish or feed to a receiver.
• Internet modems: From the wall outlet to your cable modem.
• Cameras and AV gear: Many DVRs/cameras and pro video use BNC-based coax.
• Radios and cellular gear: Coax with SMA, UHF, or BNC connectors for antennas.

Most TV/internet setups use 75-ohm coax (often RG6). Radio/cellular and some pro gear often use 50-ohm cable. Matching impedance and connector type to your device can help maintain signal quality.

There are many, but four common types you’ll run into are:

• RG59 (75Ω): Flexible and fine for shorter runs and lower frequencies (often CCTV).
• RG6 (75Ω): The go-to for TV, antenna, satellite, and cable internet; available in dual/triple/quad shield.
• RG11 (75Ω): Thicker with lower signal loss, often used for longer main runs or feeds.
• RG58/LMR-style (50Ω): Used with radios, scanners, and cellular/5G routers; usually with BNC, SMA, or UHF connectors.

Pick by impedance (75Ω vs 50Ω), connector (F, BNC, SMA, etc.), shielding, and run length to match your equipment and installation.

Coax is widely used in homes and businesses. Common spots include:

• Cable and satellite TV: Connecting a wall outlet or dish to your receiver or TV.
• Over-the-air antennas: Running from the antenna to the TV tuner.
• Cable internet: Linking the wall feed to your modem.
• Security and pro video: Many cameras/DVRs (BNC) and broadcast gear use coax.
• Radios and connectivity: Ham/CB radios, scanners, and some cellular routers use 50Ω coax.

While fiber and Ethernet are expanding in networks, coax remains practical for last‑mile TV and internet connections and for RF gear. Choosing the right cable and connectors helps maintain reliable performance.

Think about distance, flexibility, and your equipment:

• RG6 (75Ω): Most common at home. It’s more flexible, easy to route, and works well for typical TV, antenna, satellite, and modem hookups. Available with extra shielding if you’re in a high‑interference area.
• RG11 (75Ω): Thicker and stiffer with lower signal loss, often chosen for longer main runs or outdoor feeds before splitting to shorter RG6 runs.

Both commonly use F‑type connectors. Match the impedance your devices expect and consider local codes and provider guidance. Actual performance depends on cable quality, frequency, connectors, and installation.

Yes, with the right cable and accessories:

• In-wall: Look for in‑wall rated coax (e.g., CL2/CL3) and use compatible wall plates and connectors.
• Outdoors: Choose outdoor‑rated or direct‑burial cable with UV‑resistant jackets. Gel‑filled/direct‑burial options can help in wet soil. Weatherproof boots or compression connectors can help protect terminations.
• Install tips: Avoid tight bends and kinks, support long runs, create drip loops at entries, and seal exterior entry points as appropriate.

Local building codes and provider requirements vary, and complex runs may benefit from a professional install. Using rated materials and proper techniques can help maintain signal and longevity.