A coaxial RF connector (radio frequency connector) is an electrical connector designed to work at radio frequencies in the multi-megahertz range. RF connectors are typically used with coaxial cables and are designed to maintain the shielding that the coaxial design offers. Better models also minimize the change in transmission line impedance at the connection. This post is going to Introduce what is an RF connector and the most commonly used types of RF connectors
What are RF connectors?
RF connectors are connectors used to make electrical connection for signal transmission in radio frequency applications. These connectors are used in wide variety of applications range from 0 to 18 GHz and above.
All types of RF connector have one male connector and one female connector. Male connectors are often called plug and female connectors as jack. Center pin and outer grounding with locking mechanism provides it a strong and reliable connection.
Most commonly used types of RF connectors
The 5 most common RF connector types include
1. Type N Connector
The Type N connector is a threaded, weatherproof, medium sized connector for durable applications that can easily handle frequencies up to 11 Ghz. This type of connector follows MIL-STD-348 and widely used in lower frequency microwave systems where ruggedness and low cost are needed.
Figer1: N Connector
2. UHF Connector
The Ultra High Frequency (UHF) connector is also a threaded RF connector that carries signals at frequencies up to 100 MHz. It’s not waterproof and non-constant surge impedance. It can be used in amateur radio, Citizens band radio, and marine VHF radio applications.
Figer2: UHF Connector
3. TNC Connector
TNC is a threaded version of BNC connector and has better performance compared to BNC connector at microwave frequencies. It is used in radio and wired applications.BNC Connectors
4. BNC Connector
BNC is a miniature quick connect/disconnect RF connector commonly used at low frequency applications. It is originally used for the military sector and has gained wide acceptance in composite video on commercially used video devices and RF applications up to 2 GHz.
Figer3: BNC Connector
5. SMA Connector
SMA or SubMiniature version A connectors are semi-precision coaxial RF connectors operating up to 18 GHz, though some proprietary versions are rated to 26.5 GHz. It is commonly used in RF power amplifiers, RF isolator, microwave systems, mobile telephone antennas, WiFi antenna systems and radio astronomy at 5 GHz+.
Figer4: SMA Connector
Conclusion
RF connectors are passive electrical components intended to operate at radio frequencies in the multi-megahertz range. Multiple different types of RF connectors are available.
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