Insertion Loss and Attenuation

March 14, 2024 Michael Traskos

Insertion loss and attenuation are similar concepts, but one is assigned to a single component (insertion loss) whereas the other is assigned to generalized performance (attenuation). In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences of these concepts and how proper testing of each can ensure reliability in signal transmission. Read more

Minimum Coaxial Cable Bend Radius

November 15, 2023 Megan Chambellan

The impact of a coaxial cable’s bend radius is not well defined from an initial evaluation standpoint. Standard restriction on the minimum bend radius for coaxial cables has remained unchanged for over 40 years whereas materials and construction methods have seen great improvement. In this article, Lectromec measures the attenuation of a modern coaxial cable at different bend radii to identify the severity of the impact a tighter bend radius has on the performance of the cable. Read more

Is my aircraft wiring serviceable?

January 29, 2019 Michael Traskos

A concept employed in the civil engineering field is that of serviceability. At its core, a structure should only remain in-service as long as it is serviceable. A serviceability limit should be based on measurable performance criterion that, if exceeded, remove it from service. In limit state design, the structure fails its serviceability if the criteria of the serviceability limit state are not met during the service life with the required reliability. Read more