What Is BNC Connector And BNC Cable?

BNC is short of Bayonet Neill Concelman , because BNC connector was invented by Paul Neill of Bell Labs and Carl Concelman of Amphenol Zeeman (Carl Concelman), so this connector is named after the abbreviation of their two names, somebody also call it Bayonet Nut coupling .

The BNC coaxial connector had been widely used for audio, video, RF applications, anttenna applicaitons, communication systems, etc., The installation method of the BNC connector is very similar to the way a bayonet is installed on the end of a rifle. It adopts a snap-on type for easy and firm installation. The BNC connector is 50 ohm or 75 ohm coaxial connector that can be used for connecting various types of coaxial cables. The male BNC connector After inserting the female BNC connector, turn the plug so that the pins in the socket are squeezed into the locking grooves on the plug.

BNC cable is also called BNC extension cable , BNC coaxial cable , BNC coax cable , it’s coaxial cable with BNC connector at one side or both side , the other side can be SMA connector , RCA connector , SMB connector , 10-32 connector , or other RF connectors .

As BNC cables are mostly used for camera system , video system , engineers also call it BNC camera cable and BNC video cable . With both ends have different connectors , the most widely used BNC cable has following types :

• Both end has BNC connector : BNC to BNC cable
• One end BNC and the other end SMA connector : SMA to BNC cable
• One end BNC and ther other end SMB connector : SMB to BNC cable
• One end BNC and other end end 10-32 connector : 10-32 to BNC cable
• One end BNC and other end end RCA connector : BNC to RCA cable

Types Of BNC Connecor

Many people who are new to RF will ask, how many different BNC connectors are there, and how many categories. In fact, there is no definite answer here, because BNC connectors can be divided into different types according to different classification methods:

Classified According To Resistance

• 50Ω (ohm) BNC connector
• 75Ω (ohm) BNC connector

Video surveillance systems primarily utilize 75-ohm BNC connectors, while network cables typically employ 50-ohm BNC connectors. The 75-ohm BNC connectors find extensive application in video connections, broadcast audiovisual setups, 4K/8K video equipment, medical devices demanding high-speed video transmission, and high-definition cameras. In contrast, the 50-ohm BNC connectors are preferred for data and radio frequency transmissions. It’s essential to avoid incorrectly connecting a 50-ohm plug to a 75-ohm socket, as it could potentially damage the socket.
To distinguish between 75-ohm and 50-ohm BNC connectors, closely examine the connectors themselves. A key visual indicator is that the 50-ohm BNC connector typically features an insulator at the interface, whereas the 75-ohm connector lacks this insulator.

Classified According To Applications

Double-BNC Connectors:
Redundancy and Reliability: Double-BNC connectors are designed to provide redundancy and enhanced reliability in critical applications. They have two BNC connectors integrated into a single housing, allowing for simultaneous connections. In the event of a failure in one connection, the system can seamlessly switch to the backup.
BNC-T Connectors:
T-Shaped Connections: BNC-T connectors allow you to split a signal into two separate paths. They are useful when you need to connect multiple devices to a single source or distribute a signal to multiple destinations.
BNC-to-RCA Adapters:
Home A/V and Consumer Electronics: These adapters are commonly used to connect BNC devices to RCA connectors, which are often found in home audio and video equipment. They enable compatibility between BNC and RCA interfaces.
BNC Bulkhead Connectors:
Panel Mounting: BNC bulkhead connectors are designed for panel mounting. They are useful when you need to pass a BNC connection through a panel or enclosure while maintaining a secure and weatherproof seal.
BNC Crimp Connectors:
Custom Cable Assemblies: BNC crimp connectors are used in applications where custom cable assemblies are required. They allow for precise cable termination, making them suitable for RF engineers and installers who need to create custom cables.
BNC PCB Connectors:
Printed Circuit Board Integration: BNC PCB connectors are designed for soldering onto printed circuit boards (PCBs). They enable the integration of BNC connections directly onto electronic devices and equipment.
BNC Terminator Caps:
Impedance Matching and Signal Termination: Terminator caps are used to terminate open BNC connectors to prevent signal reflections and maintain proper impedance matching in RF and high-frequency applications.
Choosing the right type of BNC connector for your specific application is crucial for ensuring reliable signal transmission and system performance. The choice often depends on factors such as impedance, frequency range and so on.

Structure And Materials of BNC Connector

Main body material : nickel plated brass

Pin material : gold plated copper

Insulator material : PVC

O-ring(if have) : NBR

BNC connectors are widely used in video projects. A larger monitoring project uses hundreds of BNC connectors. 1% of defective products will cause more than ten common problems. Choosing high-quality BNC connectors can reduce a lot of trouble and after-sales problems.
Due to fierce market competition, some BNC connector manufacturers choose different raw materials to reduce costs. High-quality BNC connectors generally use copper as the raw material. Since copper is easily oxidized by air, a layer of nickel is usually electroplated on the surface to improve oxidation resistance.

Main Parameters Of BNC Cable And BNC Connector

• Impedance: BNC cables come in two main impedance ratings: 50 ohms and 75 ohms. The choice of impedance depends on the specific application, with 50 ohm cables typically used for RF and data applications and 75 ohm cables typically used for video and broadcast applications.
• Cable Type: There are many types of coaxial cables used with BNC connectors such as RG-58, RG-59, RG-6, RG-174, RG-213, etc. The choice of cable type depends on factors such as signal frequency, power handling and flexibility.
• Cable Diameter: The diameter of a cable may vary depending on the cable type and application. Thicker cables are used for higher power applications and longer cable runs.
• Attenuation: Attenuation is the loss of signal strength as it passes through a cable. It is usually measured in decibels per unit length (dB/m or dB/ft). Lower attenuation values mean less signal loss and better cable performance.
• Connector type: There are many BNC connector types, and different BNC connectors will be selected for different applications.
• Gender: BNC connectors are available in male and female versions, with male connectors usually having pins and female connectors having sockets. The gender of the connector should match the gender of the device it is connected to.
• Frequency Range: BNC connectors have a specific frequency range, which may vary depending on the design and quality of the connector. High-quality connectors can support higher frequencies, which is important for applications such as radio frequency and high-speed data transmission.
• Voltage Rating: The voltage rating of BNC connectors indicates the maximum voltage they can safely handle. It is important to select a connector with the appropriate voltage rating for your application to ensure safety.

How To Install Coaxial Cable To BNC Connector

We use crimped BNC connectors to show the installation：
1. Prepare tools and materials
BNC connector
BNC crimping pliers
Coaxial cable
Wire strippers
Other tools
2. Strip the coaxial cable
The outer insulation of the coaxial cable needs to be stripped off first. Use wire strippers to peel off the outer insulation of the cable, exposing the inner insulation and center conductor.
3. Install crimp tube
Pass the crimp tube into the coaxial cable
4. Install the pin to the coaxial cable conductor
Insert the center conductor of the coaxial cable into the center hole of the pin, making sure the insertion depth is appropriate
5. Crimp the pin to the coaxial cable conductor
Use BNC crimping pliers to crimp the center conductor tightly. Insert the coaxial cable insulation into the outer hole of the BNC video connector, making sure the insulation is not damaged.
6. Install the main body of the BNC connector
Pass the main body of the BNC connector through the coaxial cable so that the shielding layer of the coaxial cable covers the main body of the BNC connector.
7. Crimp the shielding layer to the BNC connector
Use professional crimping tools to secure the shielding layer to the BNC connector safely and securely
8. Test the BNC cable
Use special instruments to test whether there are any problems with signal transmission
Precautions
Make sure the quality of the coaxial cable is good to avoid unstable video transmission caused by aging or damage of the cable.
Before connecting the BNC video connector, make sure the device is turned off and disconnected from the power source to avoid risks such as electric shock.
Before connecting the BNC video connector, check whether the interface between the BNC video connector and the coaxial cable is clean to avoid poor contact.
Before connecting the BNC video connector, confirm whether the connection method is correct to avoid unstable video transmission caused by connection.

What Coaxial Cable Could Connect BNC Connector

BNC connectors could be connected with various types of coaxial cable , but the specific type of coaxial cable you should use depends on your application and the requirements for signal transmission. Here are some common coaxial cable types compatible with BNC connectors:

• RG-58: RG-58 is one of the most commonly used coaxial cables with BNC connectors. It is a thin, flexible cable suitable for applications such as short-distance data transmission, CCTV connections and general purpose purposes. It has an impedance of 50 ohms and is commonly used in amateur radio and small RF applications.
• RG-59: RG-59 is commonly used in video applications, such as connecting a camera to a monitor or video device. It is also a 75 ohm cable commonly found in residential and commercial installations. Compared with RG-58, RG-59 is less suitable for high-frequency data transmission.
• RG-6: RG-6 coaxial cable is commonly used in cable television (CATV) and satellite television installations. It is designed for high frequency signals and has an impedance of 75 ohms. In most cases, RG-6 is not suitable for BNC connectors as it is typically terminated with F-type connectors used in cable and satellite installations.
• RG-174: RG-174 is a lightweight, flexible coaxial cable with an impedance of 50 ohms. It is typically used in applications where flexibility and mobility are critical, such as test equipment, RF connectivity and portable equipment. RG-174 is compatible with BNC connectors, but its signal carrying capabilities are best suited for shorter cable runs.
• RG-213: RG-213 is a heavy-duty, low-loss coaxial cable with an impedance of 50 ohms. It is commonly used in higher power RF applications, including amateur radio and some military applications. RG-213 is compatible with BNC connectors and provides better signal integrity over longer distances than RG-58 or RG-174.
• RG-8: RG-8 is another heavy-duty coaxial cable with 50 ohm impedance. It is suitable for high power RF applications and long cable transmission. RG-8 is commonly used in base station antennas and other demanding RF environments and is compatible with BNC connectors.

When selecting coaxial cable for use with BNC connectors, consider factors such as cable impedance, signal frequency, signal loss, and the specific needs of your application. Always make sure to use proper connectors and termination methods to maintain signal integrity and minimize signal loss in your setup.

BNC Cable And Connector Application

BNC connectors and BNC cables have been widely used in various applications for decades due to their reliability and versatility in transmitting electrical signals. These connectors and cables are commonly found in the fields of telecommunications, electronics, and audio/video production. Here are some key applications of BNC connectors and BNC cables :

• Video Surveillance: BNC connectors and cables are commonly used in CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) systems. They facilitate the connection between cameras and recording equipment, ensuring high-quality video transmission over long distances without significant signal loss.
• Broadcasting: In the broadcasting industry, BNC connectors are used to interconnect various components of a studio, including cameras, monitors, and switchers. BNC cables can transmit both analog and digital video signals, making them essential in the production of television programs and live events.
• Computer Networking: BNC connectors were once used in Ethernet networks, particularly in older coaxial cable-based systems like 10BASE2. However, these have largely been replaced by RJ45 connectors and twisted-pair Ethernet cables in modern networking.
• Testing and Measurement: BNC connectors are common in laboratory settings and electronic test equipment. They provide a secure and quick method for connecting instruments such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers to electronic devices under test.
• RF (Radio Frequency) Applications: BNC connectors are prevalent in RF applications, including radio and antenna connections. They are used to connect radios to antennas and are often employed in amateur radio (ham radio) setups.
• Audio Equipment: While not as common as other connectors like XLR or TRS, BNC connectors are sometimes used in high-end audio equipment. They can transmit digital audio signals with low interference and high precision.
• Aerospace and Military: BNC connectors are used in aerospace and military applications, where durability and resistance to environmental factors are crucial. They are often found in avionics systems, radar equipment, and secure communication devices.
• Medical Equipment: BNC connectors and cables are used in medical instrumentation and diagnostic devices, ensuring the accurate transmission of signals in applications such as patient monitoring and imaging equipment.
• Telecommunications: BNC connectors have been used in the telecommunications industry for connecting various components in communication systems, including signal distribution and testing.
• Amateur Radio: In ham radio operations, BNC connectors are preferred for their ease of use and reliability in transmitting RF signals. They are used in antennas, transceivers, and other radio equipment.

In all of these applications, BNC connectors and cables offer advantages such as ease of installation, secure connections, and the ability to transmit signals over relatively long distances while maintaining signal integrity. However, it’s important to note that as technology continues to evolve, some applications are shifting toward newer connector types and cable technologies, especially in the realm of high-speed data transmission and networking.