High-speed Signal Design: Advantages and Precautions of Extremely Fine Coaxial Cables

In the field of high-speed signal transmission, USB3.0 has become a common interface standard, with a transmission rate of up to 5Gbps. Such high data rates place extremely high requirements on the transmission medium, including signal integrity, anti-interference performance, and impedance control. Many people may wonder whether extremely thin coaxial cables (micro coaxial cable) can meet the high-speed transmission requirements of USB3.0.

One, Characteristics of ultra-fine coaxial lines
The ultra-fine coaxial structure is compact, consisting of an inner conductor, insulating layer, shielding layer, and outer sheath. Compared to traditional FPC or ordinary ribbon cables, it has superior electromagnetic shielding capabilities and stable impedance control performance. These features make it outstanding in high-speed differential signal transmission, especially in limited spaces, where it can meet the requirements of both small size and high performance, making it suitable for thin, lightweight, and high-density electronic devices.

Part Two: Requirements for USB 3.0 Cables
The data channels of USB3.0 adopt differential transmission mode and are very sensitive to the consistency and shielding effect between pairs of wires. If the wire impedance deviation is too large, it may cause signal reflection and eye diagram closure, thus reducing transmission speed or increasing error rate. Therefore, the cables used for USB3.0 must have strict impedance control and low signal loss characteristics to ensure the stability of high-speed data transmission.

The feasibility of the application of extremely fine coaxial lines
In high-end products such as industrial cameras, medical imaging equipment, and VR headsets, there are already cases where extremely thin coaxial cables have been used to implement USB 3.0 and even USB 3.1 interfaces. Extremely thin coaxial cables can maintain signal integrity while ensuring lightweight and flexible bending. Especially in designs with limited internal space, micro coaxial cables have more advantages compared to traditional cables, providing a reliable solution for the layout of high-speed interfaces.

Four, challenges and precautions
Although extremely thin coaxial cables can be used for USB3.0 high-speed transmission, in actual design, attention should be paid to connector matching technology, shielding layer integrity, and welding accuracy. If process control is not up to standard, even with excellent performance, it is difficult for extremely thin coaxial cables to produce the expected effect. Therefore, maintaining strict standards in the design and production process is the key to ensuring signal stability.

In summary, ultra-fine coaxial cables are fully equipped for high-speed signal transmission in USB3.0, but it is prerequisite that the design, technology, and matching connectors must be strictly matched. With the intensification of the trend towards miniaturization and high-speed performance in devices, micro coaxial cables will be increasingly used in USB3.0 and higher standard interfaces, providing reliable guarantees for high-speed data transmission.
I am[Suzhou Huichengyuan]Long-term focus on the design and customization of high-speed signal cables and extremely thin coaxial cables, committed to providing customers with stable and reliable high-speed interconnect solutions. If you have relevant needs or would like to learn more, please contact us:Manager Zhang 18913228573 (WeChat number the same)。