Mil-C-17 (M17) Coaxial Cable

M17 cables are a mil-spec cable designed to carry data and communications. M17 cables have been around since the 1940’s and started with the “RG” designation. During the 1970’s the specification was updated to use the M17 part number scheme, but you still see the legacy “RG” numbers called out. The “RG” stands for Radio Government when two-way radios first came into the market. The newest designs of M17 cables will not have a “RG” number associated with it. For example – when a call out for RG59 is used, the M17/29 cable will be provided in the mil-spec market. There are many reasons for “RG” cables in the commercial market but there is no standard so attention must be given to the data sheets. Newer versions of the M17 specification will not have a RG designation.

Because the M17 cable is used for data and communications, the electrical properties must be highly controlled and predictable. There is a Qualified Products List for this spec dictating which manufacturers can provide the cables. Many cables offer sweep testing, which allows for a full range of frequency testing to ensure the integrity of the cable. There are many conductors, dielectric, shielding, and insulation variables to match your requirements. There are constructions including flexible and semi-rigid, with solid and semisolid dielectrics. As well, there are stranded and solid conductors of bare copper, tin, silver, and many alloy selections.