All RF coaxial connector types were designed with a specific purpose in mind. Certain applications require
acceptable performance across a range of frequencies in conditions ranging from controlled laboratory settings
(metrology, production test) to extremely harsh outdoor environments that need protection
from wind, rain, ice, and extreme temperatures. In many instance, physical size is an issue both for space considerations
and due to the diameter of the coaxial cables which must be accommodated.
Many time connectors are used quite successfully under conditions for which they were not designed for use.
However, unless you have the luxury of being able to experiment or you have previous experience with the connector
type, then it is best to stick with proven connectors for their designed-for uses. This chart will help you choose
a coax connector based on frequency range.
See a discussion on
transmission lines
and coaxial connectors.
Coaxial Connector Frequency Ranges
| Connector Style |
Operational Range (Applicable MIL Specification listed for reference only) |
| UHF |
|
(inc'l PL-259 plug & SO-239 socket) |
| L |
|
|
| SC |
|
MIL-C-39012/35/43 |
| C |
|
MIL-C-39012/6/15 |
| HN |
|
MIL-C-3643 |
| N |
|
MIL-C-39012/1/5 |
| Precision N |
|
MIL-C-39012/129/132 |
| BNC |
|
MIL-C-39012/16/24 |
| TNC |
|
MIL-C-39012/26/34 |
| Precision TNC |
|
MIL-C-39012/112/116 |
| MCX/MMCX |
|
|
| SMB |
|
MIL-C-39012/67/72 |
| SMC |
|
MIL-C-39012/73/78 |
| SMA |
|
MIL-C-39012/79/83 |
| SSMA |
|
|
| 3.5 mm |
|
|
| 7 mm |
|
IEEE 287 |
| GMS |
|
|
| GPO |
|
|
| K-style |
|
|
| 2.4 mm |
|
|
| V-style |
up to 65 GHz |
| 1.85 mm |
up to 65 GHz |
Related Pages on RF Cafe - Coaxial Cable
Specifications - Capacitor Dielectrics & Descriptions
- Dielectric Constant, Strength, &
Loss Tangent - Conductor Bulk Resistivity & Skin
Depths - Coaxial Cable Equations -
Coaxial Cable Specifications -
Coaxial Cable Vendors - Coaxial Resonator -
Coaxial Connector Usage Chart
|
