Coaxial Connectors (RF)

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
BU-P4896 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK BNC	145792
BU-P4289 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT BNC PLUG TO SMA JACK	652612
BU-P72966 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAT JACK-JACK SMA 50 OHM	93718
BU-P72973 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK SMA 50 OHM	9073274
BU-P5300 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT TRIAX PLUG BNC JACK	36815
BU-P3534 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK BNC	28837
BU-P3533 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT PLUG-PLUG BNC 50 OHM	71459
BU-P6738 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK BNC 75 OHM	536
BU-P6713 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK F 75	242516
BU-P3283 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK BNC 50 OHM	0
BU-P72979 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT SMB PLUG SMA JACK	241695
BU-P3285 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT PLUG TO JACK BNC	21366
BU-P4290 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT BNC JACK TO SMA PLUG	1251917
BU-P3846 Mueller Electric Co.	CONN ADAPT JACK-JACK BNC 50 OHM	25315

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