Securiflex RG59 Budget Shotgun Cable | CCA, PVC, 2 Core Power 0.75mm, 100m | Black

FAQs

What makes this a “budget” shotgun cable?

This is classified as a budget shotgun cable because it uses cost-effective materials while still providing reliable performance. The coaxial element uses copper clad steel (CCS) conductor rather than premium bare copper, and the power cores use CCA (Copper Clad Aluminium) rather than pure copper. These material choices reduce manufacturing costs, making it more affordable for budget-conscious projects. However, it still provides the convenience of combined video and power in a single cable, with the added benefit of thicker 0.75mm power cores compared to economy 0.5mm versions. It’s CPR Fca rated and suitable for general purpose CCTV applications where maximum performance isn’t critical but cost-effectiveness and convenience are priorities.

What are the advantages of 0.75mm power cores in a budget cable?

The 0.75mm power cores in this budget shotgun cable provide significantly better current-carrying capacity compared to 0.5mm alternatives commonly found in economy shotgun cables. The larger conductor size means lower resistance and less voltage drop over distance, even though these are CCA (Copper Clad Aluminium) rather than pure copper. This allows for longer cable runs while maintaining adequate voltage at the camera, or alternatively supports cameras with higher current consumption at standard distances. For budget installations, the 0.75mm CCA cores provide a good balance between cost-effectiveness and practical power delivery performance, making this cable suitable for a wider range of applications than thinner 0.5mm versions.

How does budget shotgun cable compare to premium versions?

Budget shotgun cable uses copper clad steel for the coaxial conductor and CCA for the power cores, while premium versions use bare copper for both. This means premium cables have lower resistance (~42Ω/km vs ~48Ω/km for the coaxial element) and better conductivity, resulting in superior signal quality and longer transmission distances. However, for shorter cable runs (under 100-150 metres), standard definition or lower resolution HD cameras, and budget-conscious projects, budget shotgun cable provides acceptable performance at significantly lower cost. The electrical specifications (75Ω impedance, capacitance) are the same, so it’s compatible with all standard CCTV equipment. The choice between budget and premium depends on your specific application requirements, budget, and performance expectations.

What is the CPR Fca rating?

CPR Fca is a fire performance classification under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). The Fca rating is a basic fire classification indicating the cable has been tested for fire performance but has less stringent requirements compared to higher classifications like Eca or B1ca. Fca rated cables are acceptable for many general building installations where higher fire performance classifications are not mandated. For budget-conscious projects in standard commercial or residential environments, Fca rating provides adequate fire safety compliance at lower cost compared to cables with higher fire ratings like Eca.

Can I use this budget cable for all types of CCTV cameras?

This budget shotgun cable is suitable for analogue CCTV cameras and most HD video over coax cameras (HD-CVI, HD-TVI, AHD) that require separate power, particularly for shorter to medium cable runs. It works well for standard definition and lower to medium resolution HD cameras. For very high resolution cameras (4MP, 5MP and above), very long cable runs (over 150-200 metres), or professional installations requiring maximum signal quality, you may want to consider premium shotgun cable with bare copper conductors. However, for typical budget-conscious installations with moderate distances and standard camera specifications, this cable provides reliable performance at excellent value.

How far can I run power through 0.75mm CCA cores?

The maximum power transmission distance with 0.75mm CCA cores depends on the voltage used (12VDC or 24VDC), camera current draw, and acceptable voltage drop. For 12VDC cameras with typical current consumption, practical distances are generally 75-125 metres depending on the specific camera. For 24VDC cameras, distances can be extended due to lower current requirements at higher voltage. While CCA has higher resistance than pure copper, the 0.75mm size partially compensates, providing reasonable power delivery for budget installations. For longer runs or cameras with high power consumption, consider using 24VDC instead of 12VDC, or stepping up to cables with pure copper power cores. Always calculate voltage drop for your specific application to ensure adequate power delivery.

What is the difference between CCA and copper power cores?

CCA (Copper Clad Aluminium) power cores have an aluminium core with a thin copper cladding, while pure copper cores are solid copper throughout. Pure copper has better conductivity and lower resistance, resulting in less voltage drop and better power transmission performance. However, CCA is lighter and more economical, making it suitable for budget-conscious installations where moderate power transmission distances are acceptable. The 0.75mm size in this budget cable helps offset some of the conductivity disadvantage of CCA compared to smaller copper cores. For budget projects with typical cable runs and standard cameras, 0.75mm CCA cores provide acceptable performance at lower cost.

Is this budget cable suitable for PTZ camera installations?

Yes, this budget shotgun cable can be used for PTZ camera installations, particularly for budget projects with moderate cable runs. The coaxial element carries the video signal, while the 0.75mm CCA power cores can deliver electrical power and carry control signals for PTZ functions using protocols like RS-485. PTZ cameras typically consume more power than fixed cameras, so the thicker 0.75mm cores are beneficial compared to 0.5mm alternatives. However, for longer PTZ camera runs or professional installations, you may want to consider cables with pure copper power cores for better power delivery and control signal integrity. For budget PTZ installations with moderate distances, this cable provides a cost-effective solution.

What is the expected service life of this budget cable?

Despite being a budget option, the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic jacket has excellent aging properties and will typically exceed a 25-30 year service life under normal operating conditions, the same as premium cables. The PVC jacket quality is comparable across the range – the “budget” designation refers to the internal conductor materials (copper clad steel and CCA) rather than the outer jacket durability. When properly installed and protected from environmental extremes, this budget shotgun cable will provide decades of reliable service, making it a sound long-term investment even for cost-conscious projects.

Does budget cable require different connectors or installation methods?

No, budget shotgun cable uses exactly the same connectors, termination methods, and installation procedures as premium shotgun cables. The outer diameter (6.10mm) and physical construction are identical, so all standard RG59 BNC connectors, F-connectors, and termination tools work the same way. The difference is purely in the internal conductor materials (CCS vs bare copper for coax, CCA vs copper for power cores), which affects electrical performance but not physical installation. This means installers can use familiar techniques and tools, and the cable is compatible with all standard CCTV equipment designed for 75Ω coaxial connections.