N-Type connector, or simply An RF connector known as an N connector is used to connect coaxial cables. This medium-sized, waterproof, threaded connector was one of the first to support microwave-frequency signals.
The purpose of N-Type connectors is to meet the demand for a reliable, weatherproof, medium-sized RF connector with consistent performance, including models that support up to 18 GHz.
Keep reading and find out more about N-type connector,
Table of Contents
What is N-type Connector?
The N-type connector is a high-performance In many applications, especially those where RF performance is crucial, the N-type RF connector is used as a coaxial connector.
The N-type connector excels where high powers and high performance are required, despite not being utilized as frequently in small laboratories and hobbyist applications. The N-type connector is better suited for use with the larger low-loss cables because it is physically larger than other types of connectors, like the BNC connector.
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History of N-type Connector
The N-Type connector was originally designed for military applications and follows 50- and 75-ohm versions of MIL-STD-348 are available.
Connecting these two types together may result in damage and erratic operation because of the difference in center pin diameter. The fact that some, but not all, 75-ohm sockets are made to accept the larger 50-ohm pin without causing permanent damage complicates things.
A 50-ohm socket typically has a loose fit when connected to a 75-ohm pin, which can lower the quality of the contact and cause unreliable or intermittent operation.
Additionally, many N-Type connectors are not labeled with the version, which can make it challenging to prevent damage or functionality problems in a mixed impedance environment.
N-type Development
The N-type connector has been in use for many years. It is believed to have gotten its name from the first letter of its inventor, Paul Neill of Bell Laboratories, although some sources claim that the N stands for Navy, the initial application of the connector.
The N-type connector was created as a result of the demand for a high-performance RF connector with a constant impedance; its initial design goal was to function up to 1 GHz. Since its initial introduction, it has been used extensively in fields requiring high levels of power carrying capacity, good RF performance, and the ability to work with larger-sized coaxial cables.
Additionally, its performance has proven to go far beyond the original 1 GHz design goal.
Design Notes of N-type Connector
Suggested tightening torque: The N connector’s coupling has a 5⁄8-24 UNEF thread and an air gap between the center and outer conductors.
The male connector is typically hand-tightened, though some versions, like one from Andrew Corporation, have a hex nut. According to Andrew Corporation, this version should be torqued to 20 inch-pounds (2.3 N⋅m).
The N connector should be torqued to 15 inch-pounds (1.7 N⋅m), according to Amphenol. While good RF contact is the primary operational requirement, torque limit is dependent on the thread’s quality and cleanliness.
Power rating: The N connector’s peak power rating is determined by voltage breakdown/ionization of the air near the center pin. The average power rating is a function of frequency and is determined by the temperature at which the center contact overheats as a result of resistive insertion loss.
Features and Benefits of N-type Connector
- Broad line of military, industrial and commercial grade products available
- Excellent RF performance from DC to 11 GHz, and DC to 18 GHz on extended range designs
- Threaded coupling mechanism ideal for vibration resistance
- Accommodates a wide range of coaxial cables including low loss types
Final Words on N-type Connector
In honor of Paul Neill of Bell Labs, a connector known as the Type-N was created in the 1940s. This connector was created to address the demand for a robust, weatherproof medium size RF connector.
It is a medium-sized, threaded, weatherproof RF connector that can operate at up to 18 GHz. Although it has an official operating range of up to 11 GHz, precision improvements have made it possible to use this connector for applications up to 18 GHz.
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FAQs
What is N Type Connector Used For?
N-Type connector, or simply N connector, is an RF connector used to join coaxial cables.
What Are the 3 Types of Connectors?
Electrical connectors are classified into three types based on their termination ends: board-to-board connectors, cable/wire-to-cable/wire connectors, and cable/wire-to-board connectors.
What is the Difference Between N Type and F Type Connector?
For residential wiring, F-Types are the most popular connectors. They work with cable modems, satellite television, and cable television. N-Type connectors are larger connectors designed to be used with thick, commercial cable.
