RF coaxial connectors

since WWII — The “N” in N-type stands for Navy, born from naval radar needs. First generation RF coaxial connectors evolved into today’s global standard (MIL-C-39012). Reliable, tested, and built for telecom, aerospace, medical, and industrial systems.

Polarity · standard & reverse

Standard polarity: Male (plug) · Female (jack) — J / K, or M / F worldwide.

Reverse polarity (RP): Opposite interface → prevents unauthorised device connection. Common in Wi-Fi & OEM equipment.

Key electrical ratings

Popular interfaces

• N-type · up to 18GHz — threaded, weatherproof, high power, outdoor base stations.
• BNC · bayonet · 4GHz — quick bayonet lock, lab & video (DC~4GHz).
• SMA · subminiature · 18GHz — small form factor, WiFi, microwave & IoT.
• TNC · threaded · 11GHz — rugged threaded version.
• F-type · 75Ω — TV/satellite, broadband.

Quick-lock · QLF alliance

QMA & QN by Quick Lock Formula (Huber+Suhner, Radiall, Rosenberger, Amphenol RF):

• QMA: connects in 2 seconds (10x faster than SMA). Space saving: 12.4mm pitch vs SMA 14mm.
• QN: quick lock N-type alternative. Panel spacing 20mm (N-type needs 29mm). Robust & vibration resistant.
• Pull-to-disconnect sleeve: fully locked until outer sleeve is pulled.

Mating & torque guide

Connection types: Threaded — SMA, N, TNC, 3.5mm  |  Bayonet — BNC  |  Push-pull / fast-lock — QMA, QN, some MCX variants  |  Slide-on / snap-on — SMB, MCX, MMCX.

Recommended torque (reference):

Proper torque = stable impedance & low passive intermodulation. Over-torque damages dielectric. Use calibrated torque wrench for precision assemblies.

Milestones & standards

1964 – MIL-C-39012 first unified spec for RF coaxial connectors. Later evolved into IEC 61169 series. Our products follow strict 50/75 ohm compliance, high repeatability and low VSWR up to 40 GHz (2.92mm, 2.4mm families). Rugged materials: brass, stainless steel, beryllium copper, PTFE insulation.

Inner conductor principle

Most designs: pin (male) into socket (female). Outer conductor defines coupling mechanism.

Reverse polarity & security

RP-SMA, RP-TNC — used in WLAN, 802.11 devices to avoid consumer misuse. Prevents unauthorised connection in consumer gear.

Selection in 3 steps

• Match impedance — 50Ω for RF / 75Ω for video & CATV.
• Frequency & power — check upper operating limit & insertion loss.
• Environment & mating cycles — IP ratings, corrosion resistance, quick-lock or threaded.

Did you know?

The "N" in N-type connector stands for "Navy" — developed during WWII for shipboard radar systems. That innovation defined modern RF interfaces. Now we offer SMA, N, BNC, QMA, 4.3-10, and miniaturised high-density series.

Precision RF coaxial connectors | Low VSWR, high shielding effectiveness | Customised lengths & semi-rigid cables available.

Contact our engineers for sample kits and application notes. Reliable interconnect for defense, 5G infrastructure, test & measurement.