Coaxial Connectors (RF)

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Adapters

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
06-N018 NTE Electronics, Inc.	N JACK TO SMA PLUG ADAPTER	186
06-B025 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC JACK TO TNC PLUG ADAPTER	177
06-N005 NTE Electronics, Inc.	N JACK TO F PLUG ADAPTER	192
06-B008 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC JACK TO JACK BULKHEAD ISOLAT	198
06-B004 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC JACK TO JACK ADAPTER 50 OHM	129
06-B019 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC PLUG TO JACK ADAPTER	176
06-S015 NTE Electronics, Inc.	SMA JACK TO BNC PLUG ADAPTER	167
06-N006 NTE Electronics, Inc.	N JACK TO BNC PLUG ADAPTER 50 OH	170
06-S012 NTE Electronics, Inc.	SMA PLUG TO BNC JACK ADAPTER	296
06-S011 NTE Electronics, Inc.	SMA PLUG TO TNC JACK ADAPTER	174
06-B017 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC JACK TO JACK ADAPTER 75 OHM	180
06-B029 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC PLUG TO TNC JACK ADAPTER	108
06-B024 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC T JACK TO PLUG TO JACK ADAPT	192
06-N014 NTE Electronics, Inc.	N PLUG TO JACK R/A ADAPTER	193
06-N016 NTE Electronics, Inc.	N PLUG TO SMA JACK ADAPTER	176
06-B023 NTE Electronics, Inc.	BNC JACK TO F PLUG ADAPTER	200

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