202102-11

Coaxial Connectors (RF) - Accessories

Coaxial connectors and accessories play an important role in the field of RF applications such as high speed data communication, cellular networks, and satellite systems. Coaxial connectors are composed of two primary parts – the center conductor or contact and an outer electrical shield. The contact provides a path for the signal to travel through while the outer shield obstructs RF signals from leaking and interfering with other nearby signals. By combining these two components, a secure and low-loss connection can be made between two devices.

In terms of their shapes, coaxial connectors can be either round, straight, or angled. Round coaxial connectors are the most common due to their low cost and ease of use. They can usually be identified by a single ridge on the center conductor. Straight coaxial connectors are made up of several ridges on the center conductor and have a much longer face-to-face contact than round versions. Angled coaxial connectors are typically used in applications where the two connectors need to be placed in a tight space or a specific orientation.

The electrical performance of a coaxial connector is mainly determined by its impedance matching. Impedance matching, or impedance adaptation, is the process of optimizing the electrical connection between two devices by maintaining a constant impedance across the entire length of the connection. Impedance matching ensures that the signal is accurately transmitted without distortion, attenuation, or reflections. This is achieved through the careful selection of the cable and the connector components to have the same impedance, which is usually 50 ohms.

The selection of the right coaxial connector and its corresponding accessory is an important consideration in any RF application. By choosing the correct connector and attaching it to a cable with the same impedance as the device’s, the signal loss and reflections will be minimized. It is also important to pay attention to the temperature rating of the connector. This will determine the maximum current that the connector can handle and prevent it from overheating and potentially melting the wire insulation.

The most common accessories used in coaxial connectors are adapters, splitters, and terminators. Adapters, also known as gender changers, are used to connect two different types of connectors, such as male to female. Splitters are used to connect multiple devices to one cable by splitting the signal. Terminators are used to prevent signal loss due to reflections and resonance.

In conclusion, coaxial connectors and accessories are vital components of any RF system, providing a secure and efficient connection between two devices. A proper selection of parts and accessories is essential to maximize the performance and reliability of the system.