Coaxial Connectors (RF)

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
29S153-S00Z5 Rosenberger	ADAPT N PLUG - MCX PLUG	9
51S131-K00N5 Rosenberger	BNC ADAPTER 50 OHM	297
02K119-K00E3 Rosenberger	ADAPT 2.92MM JACK - SMP JACK	73
32K301-K00L5 Rosenberger	ADAPT SMA JACK - SMA JACK	25
02S109-K00S3 Rosenberger	ADAPT2.92MM PLUG - 2.40MM JACK	52
03K105-K00S3 Rosenberger	ADAPT3.50MM JACK - N JACK	11
09S121-K00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.40 ADAPTER	0
32K160-S00N5 Rosenberger	SMA ADAPTER	0
119S132-S00S5 Rosenberger	ADAPT PSMP PLUG - SMA PLUG	40
06S132-K00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION TNC ADAPTER	0
06S132-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION TNC ADAPTER	0
02S109-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.92/2.40 ADAPTER	0
51S303-K00N5 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK BNC	0
71S201-K00N5 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT JACK TO PLUG BNC	55
53S164-S00N1 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT 4.3/10 PLUG TO N PLUG	0
08K641-KH0S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 1.85 ADAPTER	0
51K501-K00N5 Rosenberger	ADAPT BNC JACK - BNC JACK	35
59K151-S00L5 Rosenberger	CONN ADAPT BNC PLUG TO SMB JACK	6
01S108-S00D3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 1.00 ADAPTER	0
02K109-S00S3 Rosenberger	PRECISION 2.92 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