ZED X GSML2 Angled Cable

Hardware
1

Hello

we need to use a L-shape connector with the ZED X, i found thsese:

https://www.l-com.com/water-blue-fakra-jack-right-angle-to-fakra-jack-right-angle-cable-assembly-using-rg174-coax-1-ft-lcca31227-ft1?srsltid=AfmBOoqVWZZOYEOAGMfxoSbHOSDabTu4xDs9TR7BD39ejOrvugyAGq16DNc

wanted to ask what are the limitations? RG174 VS RG316? what are the requirements to make sure it works and don’t degrade the connection?

2

Hi @guyzoler
Even if the cable should work, we cannot guarantee that it is 100% compatible without testing it.

You can get our 90° cable to be sure it works flawlessly:

3

I am sure, but your 90 deg is one-sided and its an extension, so I’ll need another GMSL2 Fakra Cable F-F and I now have at minimum 0.6m cable with 4 connectors where I actually need about 0.1m. And there are two cameras, in a drone payload this makes no sense.

are there any reuirements for the cabling to make sure we get best performance? if i send you a sample will you test it? what is the right path forward here? can you offer F-F Cable with 90 deg on both ends at 10-20cm?

4

Yes, I can agree.

I’m checking with the Hardware Team if there are strict requirements.

I believe it’s quicker if you test it directly. If the connection is stable, then the cable is good.

I forwarded your request to the Product Team. If a solution is available will be added to the store in the future.

5

The hardware team confirm that both cable should work flawlessly, but RG174 is a lo cost version and we do not recommend it for critical applications like on drones.

RG316/RTK031 are better for signal loss, temperature resistance, RF robustness, …

Asking to AI you can get additional interesting details:

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RG174 and RG316 are both 50-ohm coaxial cables, similar in size and often interchangeable in connectors, but they differ quite a bit in materials and performance.

Here’s the real difference in practical terms:

:wrench: 1. Insulation & Temperature Rating

  • RG174
    • Dielectric: PE (polyethylene)
    • Jacket: PVC
    • Temp range: ~-40°C to +80°C
  • RG316
    • Dielectric: PTFE (Teflon)
    • Jacket: FEP (Teflon-based)
    • Temp range: ~-55°C to +200°C

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Bottom line: RG316 handles much higher temperatures and harsh environments.

:satellite_antenna: 2. Frequency Performance & Loss

  • RG174
    • Higher signal loss at high frequencies
    • Typically used up to ~1–2 GHz (practical range)
  • RG316
    • Lower loss, better shielding stability
    • Works well up to 3 GHz+ (often even higher in practice)

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Bottom line: RG316 is better for RF/high-frequency applications.

:fire: 3. Shielding & Construction

  • RG174
    • Usually single braided shield
    • Less consistent performance in noisy environments
  • RG316
    • Typically silver-plated copper braid
    • Better shielding effectiveness and conductivity

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Bottom line: RG316 offers cleaner signal integrity.

:gear: 4. Mechanical Durability

  • RG174
    • Softer, more flexible
    • Less resistant to chemicals and heat
  • RG316
    • More rigid (due to PTFE)
    • Highly resistant to heat, chemicals, and aging

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Bottom line: RG316 is more rugged and reliable long-term.

:money_bag: 5. Cost

  • RG174: cheaper
  • RG316: more expensive (Teflon + better materials)

:brain: When to use which?

  • Use RG174 if:
    • Cost matters
    • Low-frequency signals
    • General-purpose wiring inside devices
  • Use RG316 if:
    • High-frequency RF (WiFi, GNSS, SDR, etc.)
    • High temperature or harsh environments
    • You need better signal integrity

:high_voltage: Quick Summary

  • RG174 = cheap, flexible, lower performance
  • RG316 = high-performance, heat-resistant, RF-friendly
6

This is all the info i needed, thanks a lot for the quick response, I’ll make sure to find RG316 / RTK031 options for reliable sources.