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RF Connectors: Types, Applications, and Characteristics

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This guide explores various types of RF connectors, detailing their operating frequencies, diameters, applications, and key characteristics. Understanding these connectors is crucial for anyone working with radio frequency (RF) systems, from hobbyists to seasoned professionals.

RF Connector Types and Applications

The following table provides a detailed overview of common RF connector types.

RF Connector TypeFrequency of OperationDiameterApplications
SMA ConnectorDC to 18 GHz0.26 inch diameterRF testing, wireless products, VSAT subsystems, WLAN, WiMAX, LTE, Zigbee. 50 Ohm impedance.
N Type ConnectorDC to 18 GHzAbout 0.8 inch (Male), 0.55 inch (Female)50 Ohm: Cellular and wireless systems. 75 Ohm: CATV systems.
BNC ConnectorDC to 3 GHzAbout 0.57 inch (Male)Video signal interface, avionics, test equipment.
TNC ConnectorDC to 11 GHz0.59 inch (Male)Routers, base stations, radar, mobile phones. Mostly 50 Ohm.
FME ConnectorDC to 2 GHzAbout 0.2677 inch (FME Jack)Mobile applications (hence the name “For Mobile Equipment”). Used with RG 58, RG 174 cables. Impedance 50 Ohm.
F ConnectorDC to 1 GHz0.43 inch (Male)75 Ohm systems. Television systems (terrestrial, satellite, cable).
MCX/MMCX/SSMCX ConnectorDC to 6 GHz0.14 inch (Plug)MCX: Antennas, GPS. MMCX: Smaller than MCX. SSMCX: Smaller than MMCX, used in WLAN, M2M, MRI, audio/video, telecommunications. Mainly 50 Ohm.
SMP ConnectorDC to 40 GHz0.145 inch diameter (SMP Female)Connects two modules or boards without cables, tolerates axial and radial misalignments.
SMB/SSMB ConnectorDC to 4 GHzAbout 0.219 inch (50 Ohm straight jack SMB type)SMB: Circuit miniaturization (50 Ohm), broadband and switching applications (75 Ohm). SSMB: Smaller than SMB.
QMA ConnectorDC to 18 GHz0.41 inch (straight cable Plug), 0.22 inch (straight cable Jack)Cellular, antennas. Allows cable routing 360 degrees.
BMA ConnectorAbout DC-22 GHzApproximately same size as SMA50 Ohm, satellite, microwave, radar
UHF ConnectorDC to 300 MHzAbout 0.7 inch (UHF type)UHF type radio

Connector Details and Applications

Let’s dive deeper into some of the more common connectors.

SMA Connector

The SMA (SubMiniature version A) connector is a widely used coaxial RF connector. Its compact size and good performance up to 18 GHz make it suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

  • RF Testing: Used extensively in test and measurement equipment.
  • Wireless Products: Found in various wireless devices.
  • VSAT Subsystems: Used in Very Small Aperture Terminal satellite communication systems.
  • WLAN, WiMAX, LTE, Zigbee: Common in wireless networking equipment.

N Type Connector

The N type connector is a threaded, weatherproof connector used for connecting coaxial cables. It is commonly used in:

  • Cellular and Wireless Systems (50 Ohm): Provides reliable connections for cellular base stations and other wireless infrastructure.
  • CATV Systems (75 Ohm): Used in cable television systems.

BNC Connector

The BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connector is a miniature quick connect/disconnect RF connector used for coaxial cables. Its key applications include:

  • Video Signal Interface: Used for connecting video equipment.
  • Avionics: Found in aircraft electronics.
  • Test Equipment: Used for connecting test instruments.

TNC Connector

The TNC (Threaded Neill-Concelman) connector is a threaded version of the BNC connector, offering improved performance at higher frequencies. It’s typically used in:

  • Routers and Base Stations: Provides a robust connection for networking equipment.
  • Radar Systems: Used in radar applications where reliable connections are critical.
  • Mobile Phones: Although less common now, it was previously used in mobile phone technology.

F Connector

The F connector is primarily used for television systems. It provides a cost-effective and reliable connection for:

  • Terrestrial Television: Connecting antennas to televisions.
  • Satellite Television: Connecting satellite dishes to receivers.
  • Cable Television: Connecting cable boxes to televisions.