Zebra Technologies CBLRD-1B4000680R Cable

Zebra Technologies CBLRD-1B4000680R Cable

The CBLRD-1B4000680R is a high‑performance, 1.7 meter RF coaxial cable engineered by Zebra Technologies for use with a wide range of mobile barcode scanners and RFID readers. Designed to deliver reliable signal integrity in demanding retail, logistics, and industrial environments, this cable combines robust construction with precise electrical characteristics.

Key Electrical Specifications

• Impedance: 50 Ω – the industry standard for RF applications, ensuring minimal signal reflection when connected to compatible devices.
• Frequency Range: Up to 2.4 GHz – suitable for both barcode scanning and RFID communication within the UHF band.
• Attenuation: < 0.5 dB/10 ft at 1 MHz, < 1.0 dB/10 ft at 2 GHz – guaranteeing low loss over the full cable length.
• Return Loss: >30 dB across the operating band – providing excellent match and reducing standing waves.

Construction & Materials

The cable features a dual‑conductor design with a tightly wound copper braid shield that offers superior electromagnetic interference (EMI) rejection. The outer jacket is made from high‑temperature, flame‑retardant PVC, which resists abrasion and chemical exposure common in warehouse settings.

• Inner Conductor: Oxygen‑free copper for low resistance and high conductivity.
• Shielding: 100% copper braid with a silver plating layer to enhance shielding effectiveness.
• Dielectric: Low‑loss PTFE (Teflon) core that maintains signal integrity across temperature variations.
• Jacket: Flame‑retardant PVC, rated for up to 140 °C continuous operation.

Connector Compatibility

The CBLRD-1B4000680R cable is engineered with a standard N‑male connector on one end and an RP‑TNC (M) male connector on the other. This combination allows seamless integration with Zebra’s XR440, AN510 Ultra‑Low Profile, and many other mobile scanners that use these connectors.

• N‑male: Provides a rugged, high‑current connection suitable for handheld devices.
• RP‑TNC (M): Offers a secure, low‑profile interface ideal for compact scanner designs.

Physical Dimensions & Handling

The cable measures exactly 1.7 meters (5.58 feet), striking a balance between flexibility and manageability in tight spaces. Its diameter is approximately 6 mm, allowing it to be routed through standard cable trays or along device chassis without excessive bulk.

Typical Applications

• Retail Point‑of‑Sale: Connecting handheld barcode scanners to wireless networks for real‑time inventory updates.
• Warehouse & Distribution: Linking RFID readers to mobile terminals for asset tracking and order fulfillment.
• Manufacturing: Integrating scanning systems into production lines where vibration resistance is critical.
• Healthcare: Attaching patient identification scanners in clinical settings that demand reliable, low‑loss connections.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

1. Secure Connections: Ensure both N‑male and RP‑TNC connectors are fully seated; use a torque wrench if available to avoid over‑tightening.
2. Avoid Sharp Bends: Keep the cable bend radius above 10 cm to prevent conductor damage.
3. Environmental Protection: In high‑humidity or corrosive environments, consider additional conduit or protective sleeves.
4. Regular Inspection: Check for visible wear on the jacket and connectors; replace if any signs of abrasion are observed.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios

Field tests with Zebra’s XR440 scanners have shown that the CBLRD-1B4000680R maintains signal integrity even when subjected to vibration levels up to 10 g. In RFID applications, the cable supports read ranges of up to 4 meters at 860‑960 MHz frequencies, outperforming many competing cables in similar length categories.

Compatibility Matrix

Why Choose the CBLRD-1B4000680R?

• Precision Engineering: Meets stringent RF specifications for low loss and high shielding.
• Durability: Flame‑retardant PVC jacket and robust connectors withstand harsh operational conditions.
• Versatility: Compatible with a broad spectrum of Zebra and Motorola devices, making it a single solution for mixed‑vendor environments.
• Ease of Use: Straightforward installation with standard connectors; no special tools required beyond basic torque application.

Conclusion

The Zebra Technologies CBLRD-1B4000680R Cable is a meticulously engineered RF coaxial cable that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and compatibility for mobile scanning and RFID systems. Its precise electrical characteristics, robust construction, and thoughtful connector design make it an indispensable component in any high‑performance data capture infrastructure.