You're right, you can't just use a guitar cable for your cable TV or internet connection. Here's why, and how it relates to solid vs. stranded core conductors

Why Guitar Cables Won't Work for CATV/Internet (DOCSIS):
Impedance

CATV/DOCSIS systems require a specific impedance, typically 75 ohms. Guitar cables are designed for a much lower impedance, usually on the order of a few ohms. This impedance mismatch would cause significant signal reflections and loss, rendering the connection unusable. Your devices would be unlikely to communicate correctly.

Frequency Range and Attenuation

CATV and DOCSIS operate at much higher frequencies than guitar signals. Guitar cables are not designed to transmit signals at these frequencies (typically 50MHz to 1 GHz for cable TV and up to 1.2 GHz for DOCSIS). At these frequencies, the signal would be heavily attenuated (weakened) due to the cable's construction and materials. The shielding is also not designed to be as effective at these frequencies, meaning more external interference would be picked up.

Shielding Effectiveness

CATV/DOCSIS cables have robust shielding to prevent signal leakage (ingress and egress). This is critical for maintaining signal integrity and preventing interference with other devices, as well as preventing your signal from being illegally intercepted. Guitar cables typically have simpler shielding that is not sufficient for these demands.

Connector Type

While you could physically change the connectors, that doesn't address the fundamental electrical characteristics of the cable itself. The cable's internal construction is the limiting factor, not just the connector.

Cable Loss (Attenuation)

Signal loss in coaxial cable is rated in dB of loss per foot or per 100 feet. Guitar cable is designed to carry the signal a short distance, and isn't worried as much about losses. ISP and CATV cables need to be able to carry the signal hundreds of feet or more, so attenuation is very important.

Solid vs. Stranded Core Conductor and Flexibility



Solid Core Advantages (for CATV/DOCSIS)



Lower Attenuation at High Frequencies

A solid core conductor, especially one made of copper-clad steel, tends to have slightly lower signal loss (attenuation) at the higher frequencies used by CATV/DOCSIS systems. This is because of the skin effect, where high-frequency currents tend to flow along the surface of the conductor. A solid conductor provides a smoother, more consistent surface.

Impedance Stability

It's easier to maintain a consistent 75-ohm impedance along the length of the cable with a solid core. This minimizes signal reflections and ensures efficient signal transmission.

Stranded Core Advantages



Flexibility

Stranded conductors are much more flexible than solid conductors. This is crucial for applications where the cable needs to be frequently bent, moved, or routed through tight spaces.

Flexibility in CATV/DOCSIS

While solid-core cable offers slightly better performance, flexible coaxial cable is available for CATV/DOCSIS. These cables typically use a stranded center conductor but are still carefully designed to maintain the correct impedance (75 ohms) and shielding effectiveness. They might have slightly higher attenuation compared to solid-core cables of the same type but are often preferred for their ease of installation and use, especially in consumer applications. The key is that the stranded core and other components are engineered to still meet the strict electrical and shielding requirements of CATV/DOCSIS.

In Summary:

While the solid core has advantages for long cable runs, the critical factor is that a coaxial cable designed* for CATV/DOCSIS applications meets specific electrical and shielding requirements, regardless of whether it has a solid or stranded core. Guitar cables simply don't meet those requirements. The impedance mismatch, insufficient shielding, and high attenuation at high frequencies make them unsuitable for carrying CATV or DOCSIS signals. Flag for review