Cable Comparison
RFC-240 vs LMR-240: Same Performance, Different Price
RFC-240 and LMR-240 are functionally equivalent cables. LMR-240 is the Times Microwave brand standard; RFC-240 is manufactured to matching specifications at a lower cost. For most ham radio, WiFi, and cellular booster applications, the cables are interchangeable.
The Short Answer
RFC-240 is the practical choice for cost-sensitive installations where brand specification is not required. Choose LMR-240 when you need documented Times Microwave provenance or when the installation specifies LMR-240 by name.
Key Differences at a Glance
- RFC-240 matches LMR-240 on all key specs: 50 Ohm, 84% velocity factor
- Both are 0.240" outer diameter — same connectors fit both cables
- RFC-240 typically costs 15-20% less per foot than LMR-240
- Both cables use foamed PE dielectric and foil + braid shielding
- UV-resistant jacket on both for outdoor use
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification | RFC240 | LMR240 Times |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 50 Ohm | 50 Ohm |
| Frequency Range | DC – 6 GHz | DC – 6 GHz |
| Velocity Factor | 0.83 | 0.84 |
| 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, 1.42mm | Bare copper clad aluminum, 1.42mm |
| Min. Bend Radius | 1.2 in (30mm) | 1.2 in (30mm) |
| Max Voltage | 600 VRMS | 600 VRMS |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C |
| Weight | 2.5 lb/100ft | 2.5 lb/100ft |
Attenuation Comparison (dB per 100 ft)
| Frequency | RFC240 | LMR240 Times | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 MHz | 2.5 dB | 2.4 dB | -0.1 dB (LMR240 Times worse) |
| 450 MHz | 5.4 dB | 5.3 dB | -0.1 dB (LMR240 Times worse) |
| 900 MHz | 7.8 dB | 7.5 dB | -0.3 dB (LMR240 Times worse) |
| 1.8 GHz | 11.3 dB | 10.8 dB | -0.5 dB (LMR240 Times worse) |
| 2.4 GHz | 13.1 dB | 12.6 dB | -0.5 dB (LMR240 Times worse) |
| 5.8 GHz | 21.5 dB | 20.6 dB | -0.9 dB (LMR240 Times worse) |
When to Choose Each Cable
Choose RFC240 when:
- Installations specifying LMR-240 by name
- Times Microwave warranty requirements
- Documentation-required commercial jobs
Choose LMR240 Times when:
- Ham radio antenna runs
- WiFi outdoor antenna connections
- Cellular booster installs
- Any budget-conscious installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Will LMR-240 connectors fit RFC-240?
Yes — RFC-240 has the same 0.240" outer diameter as LMR-240. Connectors, crimping tools, and installation procedures are identical.
Build Your RFC240 or LMR240 Times Cable
Pick your connectors, choose your length — hand-assembled and shipped free in the USA.