What is BS EN 50117-1 - Coaxial cables about?
BS EN 50117 is a series on coaxial cables. Coaxial cable is a type of transmission line, used to carry a high-frequency electrical signal with low losses. BS EN 50117-1 covers generic specifications of coaxial cables for use in analogue and digital systems. Coaxial cables covered by BS EN 50117-1 operate in transverse electromagnetic mode (TEM) and are suitable for use in a wide range of digital and analogue applications including CATV, radiofrequency systems, instrumentation, broadcasting, telecommunications and data network systems.
Generally, cables are designed for use in 50 Ohm and 75 Ohm characteristic impedance systems, although other types (e.g., 93/95 Ohm) are also covered in BS EN 50117-1. Coaxial cables are defined by BS EN 50117-1 may be incorporated into hybrid cable constructions with optical fibre or multi-element cable components. All cables covered by BS EN 50117-1 may be subjected to voltages greater than 50 V AC or 75 V DC according to the relevant sectional or detail specification. However, these cables are not intended for direct connection to the mains electricity supply or other low impedance sources.
Who is BS EN 50117-1 - Coaxial cables for?
BS EN 50117-1 on coaxial cables is applicable for:
- Telecommunication equipment and components manufacturers
- Design engineers
- Quality control personnel
- Research and development facilities
- Radio Stations
Why should you use BS EN 50117-1 - Coaxial cables?
Coaxial cable is a type of electrical cable consisting of an inner conductor surrounded by a concentric conducting shield, with the two separated by a dielectric; many coaxial cables also have a protective outer sheath or jacket. BS EN 50117-1 implementation allows you to install cables that have the capacity of voltage coverage greater than 50 V AC or 75 V DC, which allows you to have a transmission of high power data over a longer distance.
BS EN 50117-1 simplifies the transmission of data through a transmission line or radio frequency signal and makes the line attenuation free for better transmission of frequency.
BS EN 50117-1 also applies in the feedlines connecting radio transmitters and receivers, computer network connections, digital audio and distribution of cable television signals. In this way, the transfer and receiving of data become smooth and more convenient for the sender as well as the receiver. Using BS EN 50117-1 you can understand generic specifications of coaxial cables for use in analogue and digital systems.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 50117‑1:2019 supersedes BS EN 50117‑1:2002, which is withdrawn and includes technical changes with respect to BS EN 50117‑1:2002. These include:
- Reference to LVD, REACH and ROHS directives were added
- “Method for spark testing cables” replaced by “Electric cables-spark test method”
- “The temperature rise due to the current is below the continuous maximum permitted temperature of the dielectric and the sheath material” was added
- “Metallic protection” was changed to “Cable protection”

