Setup: Si5351 RF generator (@ 28 MHz) ➔ GSD-Hacks-v5 ➔ 7th order LPF ➔ {COAX-UNDER-TEST} ➔ Digital RF power meter ➔ Dummy load
Results at 13.8V drain:
| Coax Type | Power Reading |
|---|---|
| RG-58 (7 meters) | 4.5W |
| RG-316 (7 meters) | 3.9W |
| RG-188 (7 meters) | 3.9W |
Results at 15V drain:
| Coax Type | Power Reading |
|---|---|
| RG-58 (7 meters) | 5.4W |
| RG-316 (7 meters) | 4.7W |
| RG-188 (7 meters) | 4.7W |
These measurement results seem to match the ones from Eric, WD8RIF.
For ultra-portable HF field operations (POTA / SOTA / others), carrying a roll of RG-58 coax can be challenging.
Using RG-316 (light but a little stiff) and RG-188 (flexible and lightweight) for bicycle-portable or man-portable operations can be a decent option if we are willing to tolerate some RF power losses.
Also, RG-58 with PL-259 connectors is pretty mechanically rugged in comparison against RG-316 and RG-188 - another factor to keep in mind.
References: