Coaxial Connectors (RF)

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
59K151-K00L5 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT SMB JACK TO BNC JACK	13
59S151-K00L5 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO SMB PLUG	16
53S160-SIMN1 Rosenberger	N TYPE ADAPTER	0
32RK132-S00L5 Rosenberger	ADAPT SMA PLUG - RP SMA JACK	0
02KR121-S0AS3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.92 TESTPORT ADAPTER	0
65S153-KIMN1 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT 7/16 PLUG TO N JACK	0
08S121-K00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 1.85 ADAPTER	0
02S118-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.92/MINI-SMP ADAPTER	0
60K501-K50N1 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK 7/16 50 OHM	0
02KR109-K0AS3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.92/2.4 TESTPORT ADAP	0
07P132-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 7 ADAPTER	0
05K160-S50D3 Rosenberger	PRECISION N TYPE ADAPTER	0
09KR121-S0AS3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.40 TESTPORT ADAPTER	0
153QK153-K00N5 Rosenberger	QN ADAPTER	0
59K153-K00L5 Rosenberger	SMB ADAPTER	0
02K121-K00S3 Rosenberger	ADAPT2.92MM JACK - 2.92MM JACK	33
03K109-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 3.5/2.4 ADAPTER	0
32S156-K00L5 Rosenberger	ADAPT SMA PLUG - TNC JACK	18
19K132-S00D3 Rosenberger	ADAPT SMP JACK - SMA PLUG	58
08S121-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 1.85 ADAPTER	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