AT&T patents coax previously invented by Heaviside in 1880

In 1931, AT&T patented the coaxial cable, a technology that had originally been conceptualized by Oliver Heaviside in 1880. Coaxial cable, often referred to simply as “coax,” consists of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating layer. This design significantly reduces electromagnetic interference and signal loss, making it highly effective for transmitting high-frequency electrical signals over long distances. AT&T’s development and subsequent patenting of the coaxial cable marked a crucial advancement in telecommunications, leading to its widespread use in telephone networks, television signal transmission, and, later, internet connectivity. For amateur radio operators, coaxial cable provided a reliable means of connecting radios to antennas, enhancing signal clarity and overall communication quality.