Coaxial Connectors (RF)

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
CT3673 Cal Test Electronics	CONN ADAPT PLUG-JACK SMA 50 OHM	47
02K118-K00S3 Rosenberger	ADAPT 2.92MM JACK - SMPM JACK	5
RSA-3404 RF Industries	SMA FEMALE-SMA FEMALE; BARREL	291
19K116-K00L5 Rosenberger	ADAPT SMP JACK - SMP JACK	98
TMA-8FS-9FS-00 CIT (Carlisle Interconnect Technologies)	MW ADAPTER 1.85(F) TO 2.92(F)	22
05K432-K00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION N TYPE ADAPTER	0
HRM-513S Hirose	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK SMA 50OHM	45
02K109-K00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.92 ADAPTER	0
242216 Connex (Amphenol RF)	CONN ADAPT N JACK TO AMC JACK	97
RAD.00.250.CTM REDEL / LEMO	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK NIM-CAMAC	89
ADP-SMAM-MMXF Linx Technologies	SMA PLUG TO MMCX JACK ADAPTER	225
1058058-1 TE Connectivity AMP Connectors	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO SMA JACK	10
BNC-TA-JJJ(40) Hirose	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK BNC 50 OHM	0
1054425-1 TE Connectivity AMP Connectors	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK SMA	462
SF1116-6016 SV Microwave (Amphenol SV Microwave)	CONN ADAPT SMP PLG TO 2.4MM JACK	0
NJ-BNCJ(40) Hirose	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO N JACK	0
29-3835 Vitelec / Cinch Connectivity Solutions	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO SMA JACK	884
W1S108-K00S3 Rosenberger	ADAPT WSMP PLUG - 1.85MM JACK	10
RFE-6100 RF Industries	FME MALE-FME MALE	90
ADP-SMAF-FMEM RF Solutions	CONN ADAPT SMA JACK TO FME PLUG	0

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

1. Overview

RF coaxial connector adapters are passive devices enabling seamless interface between different coaxial connector types or configurations. They maintain signal integrity in radio frequency (RF) systems by ensuring impedance matching and minimizing signal reflection. These adapters play a critical role in telecommunications, test equipment, aerospace, and industrial applications where reliable RF transmission is required.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

Type	Function Features	Application Examples
BNC Adapters	Bayonet coupling, quick-connect, 50/75 variants, up to 4 GHz	Test instruments, CCTV systems
N-Type Adapters	Threaded coupling, weatherproof, 0-11 GHz, 50	Cellular base stations, microwave links
SMA Adapters	Threaded, compact, 0-18 GHz, 50	WiFi antennas, RF modules
F-Type Adapters	Compression fittings, 75 , CATV compatible	Cable TV splitters, satellite receivers
TNC Adapters	Threaded BNC variant, vibration-resistant	Military communication systems

3. Structure and Components

Typical physical construction includes:

Center conductor: Precision-machined brass or beryllium copper with gold plating
Dielectric insulator: PTFE or ceramic material maintaining precise spacing
Outer conductor/shield: Brass or stainless steel with nickel plating
Interface mechanism: Threaded (N, SMA), bayonet (BNC), or compression (F-type)

Advanced designs incorporate EMI shielding, environmental sealing (IP68), and low-PIM (Passive Intermodulation) materials.

4. Key Technical Specifications

Parameter	Typical Range	Importance
Frequency Range	DC-40 GHz (varies by type)	Determines application suitability
Impedance	50 or 75	Matching critical for VSWR
VSWR	1.1:1-1.5:1	Measures signal reflection
Insertion Loss	0.1-0.5 dB	Impacts signal strength
Durability	500-5000 mating cycles	Affects long-term reliability

5. Application Areas

Telecommunications: 5G base stations, fiber-wireless systems
Test & Measurement: Spectrum analyzers, signal generators
Aerospace: Avionics, satellite communication systems
Industrial: RFID readers, IoT gateways
Consumer: Set-top boxes, home networking equipment

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Representative Products
Amphenol RF	QN Series quick-connect adapters
TE Connectivity	Deutsch N-Type aerospace adapters
Rosenberger	8GHz SMA calibration kits
Keysight Technologies	3.5mm precision test adapters
ITT Cannon	SL Series space-grade connectors

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations:

Match impedance (50 for data/telecom, 75 for video)
Verify frequency requirements (10% headroom recommended)
Assess environmental needs (IP rating, temperature range)
Evaluate mechanical requirements (mating cycles, vibration)
Check industry certifications (MIL-STD, RoHS, REACH)

Example: Selecting N-type female-to-SMA male adapter for 3.5GHz outdoor link requires IP67 rating and <1.3:1 VSWR.

8. Industry Trends

Miniaturization: Development of 1.0/2.3mm connectors for 5G mmWave
Higher frequencies: Adapters supporting 40+GHz for automotive radar
Material innovation: Use of beryllium-free alloys for safety
Smart connectivity: Integrated sensors for condition monitoring
Environmental focus: Lead-free plating and recyclable materials