Precision RF Connector Systems
Samtec continues to expand its line of precision RF cable-to-board and board level connectors. We offer a full line of off-the-shelf products for microwave and millimeter wave applications from 18 GHz to 110 GHz. Precision RF products support next generation technology advancements in wireless communication, automotive, radar, SATCOM, aerospace, defense, and test and measurement.
SMPM Products
Samtec now offers a full line of SMPM solutions with a maximum VSWR of 1.40 and frequency range of DC to 65 GHz. SMPM micro-miniature connectors are ideal in high-frequency applications where push-on coupling is preferred due to space limitations or blind-mate is required. Single-port and multi-port solutions are available.
Multi-port ganged cable assemblies (GC47 & GPPC Series) use a .047″ low-loss flexible cable and an optimized latching system. Eight and ten port configurations on .140″ (3.56 mm) pitch are released. Additional configurations are in development.
The multi-port board-to-board system (GPPB Series) offers three board height options — 5.33 mm (.210″), 8.31 mm (.327″), and 12.70 mm (.500″) — with full detent or smooth bore retention features.
Cable-to-board, single-port SMPM solutions are available on .047″ (RF047-A Series), .086″ (RF086 Series) and Samtec-optimized low-loss flexible cable (RF23C Series) with optional End 2 connectors. SMPM board connectors provide surface mount, edge mount, and straight or right-angle through-hole terminations.
SMPM Applications
As mentioned above, SMPM products can be used in any application where push-on connector benefits are useful. Examples include designs where space is limited, and high operating frequency is required (up to 65 GHz). Of course, this includes military, but it also includes radar, telecom, even 5G, among others.
Push-on connectors enable quick-attach and blind mating, but the misalignment compensation benefit is mostly for board-to-board applications when using a bullet adaptor between the board-to-board connectors. A potential drawback resulting from misalignment is some RF leakage.
With a push-on connector, minimal amounts of RF leakage is permissible and to be expected (by nature of the connector, it allows for misalignment). If your design has no tolerance for leakage, and space/mating allows, then threaded connectors are recommended for full isolation benefits.
Want To Learn More?
If you are interested in precision RF products, you might be interested in this interview with two RF experts who answer questions such as how do Precision RF connectors differ from commercial alternatives, what industry trends are driving the Precision RF market, and how will the need for high frequency affect my design?
And click here if you want to learn about our new precision RF website.
Contact Samtec at [email protected] for launch optimization, simulation, and testing assistance. Customization of products, both quick-turn modifications and new designs, is also available.
Leave a Reply