There are many different coaxial cable connector types. Many products have numbered or lettered designations. Lettered connectors include BNC, QMA, TNC, SMB, 7/16 DIN, MCX, and so on. In the post below, we’ll introduce them one at a time.
In order to maintain the shielding on the cable, coaxial cable connectors are used to attach cables to other gadgets. Reliable, durable connections are provided by high-quality connectors.
Depending on the intended use or application, each offers particular advantages. The most popular coaxial connector types, as well as their defining traits and intended uses, are listed below. Keep reading!
Table of Contents
What is a Coaxial Connector?
When connecting devices to external power sources or connecting cables to one another, coaxial connectors, also known as barrel or tip connectors, are used to top and tail the cables and maintain the outer interference shielding.
They come in a wide range of sizes to fit various cable dimensions, and each one works in concert with the others to guarantee signal transmission without interruption.
Some have switches that enable internal batteries to be unplugged when an external power source is connected.
Read More: Audio Connectors
Types of Coaxial Connectors
BNC
The Bayonet Neil-Concelman (BNC) coaxial connector is a miniature-to-subminiature RF connector used for fast connect/disconnect in RF equipment, test instruments, radio, television, and video signal. It was initially created for military use. BNC connectors have two bayonet lugs for a twisting interface on the female connector and are best suited for frequencies below 4 GHz because connectors become less mechanically stable as frequencies above 10 GHz approach.
Related Post: What Is BNC Connector?
QMA
QMA connectors share the same internal architecture as SMA connectors and are a quick-lock and quick-disconnect variant. QMA connectors are perfect for industrial and communications applications as well as cable wiring, assembly, and repair because they offer faster and safer coupling as well as excellent performance in RF connections.
TNC
The threaded Neil-Concelman performs better at microwave frequencies than BNC connectors because it is a threaded version of a BNC connector. To address leakage and stability problems in cellular phone and RF/antenna connections, TNC Connectors are small, weatherproof devices that operate up to 12 GHz.
SMB
Smaller versions of SMA connectors called subminiature version B connectors offer better electrical performance from DC to 4 GHz. For industrial and telecommunications equipment, SMB connectors are among the most widely used RF/microwave connector variations. They provide a straightforward snap-on coupling design for semi-rigid cables with infrequent connections.
7/16 DIN
For high-wattage transmissions in cellular networks, antenna systems with multiple transmitters, and defense applications, the 7/16 DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) connector is a threaded RF connector. It can be tightened with a wrench and operates at up to 7.5 GHz. The female inner contact’s inner diameter is 7 mm, and the outer contact’s overall inner diameter is 16 mm, as indicated by the connector’s name.
MCX
Micro coaxial connectors are small-form-factor connectors that are perfect for applications requiring minimal weight, size, or space. In wireless, GPS, TV tuner cards, RF hardware, and digital cellular applications, MCX connectors operate between DC and 6 GHz and have an outer diameter that is 30% smaller than that of SMB connectors. The snap-on coupling design on MCX connectors makes installation quick and hassle-free.
N-series
The Paul Neill-invented N-series connector is a 50 ohm connector that was first created for military applications. 75 oh versions do exist today, but they are much less common and incompatible with the 50 ohm version. Today’s N-series connectors come in reverse polarity and are capable of handling frequencies of up to 18 GHz.
RCA
The Radio Corporation of America connector, also referred to as a “cinch connector,” was initially created for the transmission of audio signals but is now widely used in video as well. These cables, which are also known as A/V jacks, are the familiar red, white, and yellow cords that plug into the back of televisions. These cables each have a male connector with a ring around it.
Read More: RF Connector Types
How to Choose Your Connector?
Knowing the essential characteristics of the cable you intend to connect is necessary when choosing a coaxial connector. These include:
- The voltage
- The environment
- The required frequency
- if a male or female connection is necessary. ‘Male’ connector have protruding metal pins while ‘female’ connectors have a recess designed to receive the pins
Related Post: What Type of Coaxial Cable Does Comcast Use?
FAQs
What Are Amphenol Coaxial Connectors?
With more than 45,000 employees spread across more than 30 nations, the Amphenol Corporation of New York is one of the largest producers of electrical connectors and related products worldwide. Numerous thousand different connectors are available in their extensive selection, including the flat ribbon coaxial connectors frequently found on cable TV, audio-visual, and telephone equipment.
What Are Micro Connectors?
Micro-coaxial connectors, as their name implies, are designed for the tiniest cables, typically with a maximum diameter of 1.5 cm and a frequency of less than 6 GHz. Due to their diminutive size, they are ideal for use in complex yet physically small electronics like mobile phones, GPS receivers, wifi routers, and PC hardware.
What Are Radiall Connectors?
Radiall is a manufacturer of electronic connectors and related parts based in Paris that primarily serves the aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and industrial sectors of the global economy. Its broad range of products includes various types of radio frequency and coaxial connector.
What Are the Correct Connectors for Coaxial Cables?
BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors are available for most types of coax cable. They are available in both 50 and 75 ohm versions. Today’s radios and security cameras frequently use BNC connectors, which were initially created in the 1980s for use in the military.
