Cable
RG178
End A
MCX MALE
End B
RP-SMA MALE
Specs Summary
6 ft RG178 — MCX MALE to RP-SMA MALE
RG178 cable assembly, 6 feet, with MCX MALE and RP-SMA MALE connectors. Hand-assembled, tested, and ships free within the US.
6 ft — MCX MALE / RP-SMA MALE
$14.48
Free shipping • In stock
Other lengths:
Signal Loss — 6 ft
Approximate insertion loss for this 6 ft RG178 assembly at common RF frequencies.
| Frequency | Loss / 100 ft | Loss — 6 ft |
|---|---|---|
| 100 MHz | 7.5 dB | 0.45 dB |
| 450 MHz | 16.5 dB | 0.99 dB |
| 900 MHz | 24 dB | 1.44 dB |
| 1.8 GHz | 35 dB | 2.1 dB |
| 2.4 GHz | 42 dB | 2.52 dB |
| 5.8 GHz | 70 dB | 4.2 dB |
About This Assembly
RG178 Cable
RG-178 is an extremely thin 50-ohm coaxial cable measuring just 1.75mm in diameter, designed for space-constrained RF assemblies. Its PTFE dielectric and silver-plated conductors deliver reliable performance from DC up to several GHz. Commonly used for internal wiring in test equipment, medical devices, and cellular module pigtails.
MCX Connector
MCX (Micro Coaxial) is a snap-on RF connector approximately 30% smaller than SMB, designed for compact equipment requiring frequent connections in a small footprint. Rated to 6 GHz, MCX is commonly used in GPS receivers, automotive telematics modules, handheld communication devices, and compact measurement instruments.
RP-SMA Connector
RP-SMA (Reverse Polarity SMA) uses the SMA threaded coupling mechanism but with the male/female pin convention reversed — the jack has a pin and the plug has a socket. Originally standardized to prevent connection of uncertified antennas to consumer WiFi equipment, RP-SMA is now the dominant connector on commercial WiFi routers, access points, and 2.4/5 GHz antennas.
Common Applications
This MCX and RP-SMA cable assembly is well suited for ultra-compact internal wiring in test equipment and small wireless modules. The combination of reliable MCX and RP-SMA connectors and custom-cut cable length makes it a practical choice for both field installations and bench setups. Every assembly is hand-terminated, continuity tested, and ships free within the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this cable hand-assembled in the USA?
Yes. Every CoaxRF cable assembly is hand-terminated and continuity tested at our US facility before shipping. We do not drop-ship pre-made cables from overseas — each cable is built to order.
Can I order a different length than 6 ft?
Yes. This page is for the 6 ft assembly. Use the length buttons above to select a different standard length, or use the Cable Builder for any custom length.
How much signal loss will I see with this 6 ft cable?
At 1800 MHz, RG178 loses approximately 35 dB per 100 ft. This 6 ft assembly will have roughly 2.1 dB of insertion loss at that frequency. See the signal loss table for all frequency points.
What is the maximum frequency for this assembly?
This assembly is rated DC – 3 GHz. The effective frequency limit is set by the lowest-rated component — either the cable or one of the connectors. Both MCX MALE and RP-SMA MALE connectors must be within spec at your target frequency.
What is your return policy?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery. Custom-length cables are accepted as long as they are in original condition. Contact us and we will provide a prepaid return label at no charge.
