Coaxial Connectors (RF)

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
0733861090 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT N JACK TO SMA JACK	329
0733861091 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT N JACK TO SMA JACK	433
0733860182 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA JACK TO N PLUG	126
0733861221 Woodhead - Molex	BSA, BNC JACK/BNC JACK,PUSH-ON,	100
0733860831 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA PLUG-SSMCX PLUG	52
0733000227 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK SMPM 50 OHM	9597
0731485003 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK BNC	0
0733860210 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMB PLUG TO SMA PLUG	235
0733860224 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA JACK TO SMB PLUG	245
0733860042 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO SMA JACK	74
0733000223 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK SMPM 50 OHM	275
0732510361 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK SMA 50 OHM	895
0733860041 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO SMA JACK	53
0734153351 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK SMP 50 OHM	313
0733860840 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA PLUG - SSMCX JACK	2199
0733860201 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA JACK TO SMB JACK	502
0733860223 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA JACK TO SMB PLUG	891
0732760022 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK N 50 OHM	759
0733860851 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT MCRF PLUG TO SMA PLUG	222
0733860191 Woodhead - Molex	CONN ADAPT SMA PLUG TO SMB JACK	11

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