SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 3, 2025 – As modern industries demand faster, longer-distance, and interference-free communication systems, RF-over-Fiber (RFoF) technology is gaining traction as a strategic upgrade to conventional coaxial RF connectivity. HUBER+SUHNER, a global leader in high-performance RF and microwave cable solutions, is spearheading innovation in this space, demonstrating how RFoF delivers clear advantages in challenging environments.
Reinforcing the Value of Coaxial RF Cables
Traditional coaxial cables remain a staple in high-frequency signal transmission. Their simple yet effective design—comprising an inner conductor, dielectric insulator, and outer conductor—ensures strong shielding and high signal fidelity. These attributes make coaxial cables a cost-efficient and robust solution, particularly in scenarios where short distances and physical resilience are key.
As outlined by HUBER+SUHNER, the main advantages of coaxial cabling include:
- Simplicity and availability, ensuring ease of installation across industries.
- Lower cost compared to advanced optical systems.
- Mechanical robustness, allowing resistance to stress and environmental wear.
- Minimized signal distortion, thanks to the absence of active components, supporting a high dynamic range.
RF-over-Fiber: Meeting Modern Demands for Signal Integrity and Reach
Despite the durability of coaxial technology, RFoF solutions are emerging as the preferred choice in environments that require greater performance, flexibility, and immunity from interference. RFoF operates by converting RF signals into optical signals that are transmitted through specially engineered glass fibers—delivering high-frequency data with unparalleled efficiency.
HUBER+SUHNER highlights several compelling advantages of RFoF:
- Lower signal loss due to the ultra-low attenuation of optical fibers, enabling long-distance transmission without amplification.
- Electromagnetic interference (EMI) resistance, eliminating the need for additional lightning or EMI protection systems.
- High bandwidth capacity, allowing multiple frequencies to be transmitted simultaneously without increased attenuation.
- Lightweight and flexible infrastructure, simplifying installation across both fixed and mobile applications.
- Material durability, with high resistance to corrosion and harsh environmental conditions.
Strategic Use Cases and Industry Relevance
RFoF is particularly valuable in sectors such as aerospace, defense, broadcasting, and telecommunications—where performance under extreme conditions, long distances, and EMI immunity are critical. As 5G networks, satellite ground stations, and remote radar systems expand, RFoF is uniquely positioned to meet these infrastructure challenges.
“While coaxial cables continue to be used in many applications due to their simplicity and cost, RFoF offers significant advantages in terms of cable length, signal quality, bandwidth, and interference resistance. The choice between these technologies depends on the specific requirements of the application,” said Robert Wiedler, Business Development Manager, RFoF IND at HUBER+SUHNER.
Strategic Transition for Long-Term Value
For businesses seeking to future-proof their high-frequency signal infrastructure, adopting RFoF can deliver measurable ROI through reduced maintenance, enhanced performance, and compliance with modern data transmission demands. While coaxial systems remain cost-effective in basic setups, RFoF offers a scalable, low-loss solution ready to support complex, high-capacity networks.
To explore how RFoF solutions from HUBER+SUHNER can support your long-term signal transmission strategy, learn more at www.hubersuhner.com.