In many RF and microwave applications, it is very important to choose the correct connector. The correct selection, use, and maintenance can extend the service life of the connector and optimize the performance of the system. Newcomers in the microwave field, often encounter different microwave connector selection problems.

Many coaxial connectors are used in the RF and microwave fields, and each connector design has a special purpose and application. One of the key points is to be able to ensure the best performance and a maximum number of repeated connections.


 First, introduce several common microwave connectors

1.N-type connector

 The N-type connector was designed for naval systems in the 1840s (named source: Navy) and worked within 5 GHz. In the 1960s, the improved performance could reach 12GHz and later developed to 18GHz.

2.BNC connector

 The BNC connector was originally designed for military applications (known as Bayonet Navy Connector). It uses a bayonet connection method, which provides fast connection and reliable contact. The working frequency can reach 4GHz, and it is widely used in radio equipment, electronic equipment, network system interconnection and military applications.

3.TNC connector

 TNC connector is a threaded BNC because it effectively solves the problem of BNC connector signal leakage and joint stability, the working frequency can reach 12GHz, and it is widely used in mobile phone microwave/antenna connection.

4.SMA connector

 The SMA connector (Sub-Miniature-type A connector) was developed in the 1860s and was designed by Bendix Scintilla and Omni-Spectra. It was designed for the low-frequency connection of semi-rigid cables and devices. The standard SMA connector is designed to work at 12.4GHz, and the better SMA can be used at 18GHz or even 24GHz. The special high-quality SMA connectors produced by some manufacturers can reach 26.5GHz. SMA connectors have become one of the most commonly used connectors in the RF and microwave fields. However, due to its structural design, the service life is only a few hundred times, which is suitable for occasions with infrequent links.

5.SMB connector

 The SMB connector (Sub-Miniature B connector) is a bayonet type connector with a working frequency of 4GHz.

6.GPO (SMP) connector

The working bandwidth of the GPO connector is up to 40GHz. Based on the different stop structures, the mating life varies from 100 to 1000 times.

7.GPPO (SSMP) connector

 The GPO connector is only 1/3 of the GPO connector, and the working bandwidth is up to 65GHz.


After reading the above, you should understand microwave connectors. For more articles related to microwave connectors, we will continue to organize the blogs posted on the website. Interested users should remember to pay attention to our latest developments.

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