LMR-400 vs RFC-400: Are They the Same Cable?
LMR-400 is the original Times Microwave low-loss 0.400" coaxial cable and the industry benchmark for feedlines. RFC-400 is a compatible alternative manufactured to the same electrical specifications. Both cables share identical impedance, velocity factor, and nearly identical attenuation figures. The practical difference comes down to price and brand.
The Short Answer
For most installations, RFC-400 delivers equivalent performance at a lower price. LMR-400 is the specification standard and preferred when the cable must meet a specific manufacturer requirement or when you want the original Times Microwave product.
Key Differences at a Glance
- RFC-400 matches LMR-400 electrical specs: 50 Ohm, 85% velocity factor, same attenuation
- Both use foam PE dielectric, bonded foil shield, and braided outer conductor
- RFC-400 typically costs 15-25% less per foot than genuine LMR-400
- Connectors sized for LMR-400 fit RFC-400 identically — same 0.400" outer diameter
- Both are UV-resistant and rated for outdoor direct burial use
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification | LMR400 Times | RFC400 |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 50 Ohm | 50 Ohm |
| Frequency Range | DC – 6 GHz | DC – 6 GHz |
| Velocity Factor | 0.85 | 0.85 |
| Dielectric | Foamed PE | Foamed PE |
| Shield | Aluminum foil + tinned copper braid | Aluminum foil + tinned copper braid |
| Jacket | PE | PE |
| Center Conductor | Bare copper clad aluminum, 2.74mm | Bare copper clad aluminum, 2.74mm |
| Min. Bend Radius | 2.0 in (50mm) | 2.0 in (50mm) |
| Max Voltage | 600 VRMS | 600 VRMS |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C |
| Weight | 5.0 lb/100ft | 5.0 lb/100ft |
Attenuation Comparison (dB per 100 ft)
| Frequency | LMR400 Times | RFC400 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 MHz | 1.5 dB | 1.5 dB | 0 dB (RFC400 worse) |
| 450 MHz | 3.3 dB | 3.3 dB | 0 dB (RFC400 worse) |
| 900 MHz | 4.7 dB | 4.7 dB | 0 dB (RFC400 worse) |
| 1.8 GHz | 6.8 dB | 6.8 dB | 0 dB (RFC400 worse) |
| 2.4 GHz | 7.9 dB | 7.9 dB | 0 dB (RFC400 worse) |
| 5.8 GHz | 13 dB | 13 dB | 0 dB (RFC400 worse) |
When to Choose Each Cable
Choose LMR400 Times when:
- Installations specifying LMR-400 by name
- Mission-critical deployments
- When brand documentation is required
- Times Microwave warranty requirements
Choose RFC400 when:
- Cost-sensitive installations
- Ham radio base stations
- Cellular booster runs
- Any standard antenna feedline application
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RFC-400 as good as LMR-400?
In nearly all practical applications, yes. The electrical specifications are matched and measured attenuation is virtually identical. The difference is brand and manufacturing origin, not performance.
Will LMR-400 connectors fit RFC-400?
Yes — both cables have the same 0.405" outer diameter. Any connector specified for LMR-400 will fit RFC-400 with identical installation procedures.
Which cable does CoaxRF use?
We stock both LMR-400 (Times Microwave) and RFC-400. Both are available for custom cable assemblies. If you need genuine Times Microwave LMR-400, select it specifically when configuring your cable.
Build Your LMR400 Times or RFC400 Cable
Pick your connectors, choose your length — hand-assembled and shipped free in the USA.