Coaxial connectors are key components in today’s technologically driven world, ensuring smooth signal transmission for various electronic devices. They play an essential role in connecting cables to devices while maintaining shielding integrity. Reliable and long-lasting, these connectors make high-quality connections essential.
Male and female connector styles typically include metal protrusions; female ones contain receptacles for pins. Some connectors may even be genderless and flush-mounted, depending on size and frequency requirements.
Coaxial connectors find applications across digital, video, audio, RF, and microwave industries, with each connector type providing specific advantages tailored to particular applications. Here, we shall cover some of the main types of coaxial connectors, as well as their individual characteristics and uses.
So let’s now discuss the main types of coaxial connectors:
$15.99Buy Now on Amazon- 7/16 DIN Female to N-Type Male connector
- For use n a communication network
- Constructed from machined Nickel-plated Brass
- Commercial grade: Teflon insulator and Gold-plated contacts
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11/29/2023 02:06 am GMT
$6.99Buy Now on Amazon- BNC Female to Coaxial F Female adapter
- All metal construction for improved durability
- For use with CCTV cameras
- Size: 6 x 4 x 1 inches
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11/29/2023 02:06 am GMT
$16.98 ($1.70 / Count)Buy Now on Amazon- 50 ohm impedance
- 3GHz frequency range
- For use in communication systems, mobile antennas, etc...
- Anti-oxidation design
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11/29/2023 06:16 am GMT
$9.78Buy Now on Amazon- For use in Car radio antennas
- Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Connectors included: SMB (F) to SMB (Female), SMB (F) to SMA (Male), SMA (F) to SMB (M), and SMA (M) to SMB (M)
- 1000 x plug in guarantee
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11/29/2023 02:06 am GMT
$18.50Buy Now on Amazon- For use with coaxial cable (cable not included)
- Compatible cables: 195 RG58 RG400
- Origin: USA
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11/29/2023 02:06 am GMT
$9.68Buy Now on Amazon- For use in Networks and Wi-Fi
- Material: Gold-plated brass
- Warranty: 12 months
- Includes 4 styles of SMA to MCX connectors
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11/29/2023 06:20 am GMT
$9.99Buy Now on Amazon- For use as an AV in-line adapter
- Compatible cables: Spaced or bare wire AWG speaker cables
- Includes easy ID color bands
- Warranty: lifetime (limited)
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11/29/2023 02:07 am GMT
7/16 DIN Connectors
- 7/16 DIN Female to N-Type Male connector
- For use n a communication network
- Constructed from machined Nickel-plated Brass
- Commercial grade: Teflon insulator and Gold-plated contacts
The 7/16 DIN connector is a strong and secure coaxial connector designed for harsh environments by Deutsches Institut fur Normung (DIN). Widely used in high-wattage transmission applications, 7/16 DINs have become an industry staple. Below are two primary uses of 7/16 DINs:
- Radio Base Stations
- Broadcasting Equipment
Radio Base Stations
7/16 DIN connectors are invaluable in radio base stations, ensuring seamless communication between mobile devices and networks. Their ability to manage high power and frequency levels makes these connectors ideal for connecting coaxial cables and antennas in such environments. Their rugged construction provides protection from moisture and corrosion for long-lasting performance with minimal signal loss.
Broadcasting Equipment
One key application of 7/16 DIN connectors is their use in broadcasting equipment. Here, they play an essential role in transmitting high-quality audio and video signals between television and radio stations. Thanks to their superior mechanical stability and low insertion loss characteristics, these connectors deliver the reliable connections necessary for interference-free broadcasting.
These coaxial connectors are versatile and designed to withstand high-wattage transmissions in harsh environments. In addition, their rugged construction and performance capabilities make them popular choices among radio base stations and broadcasting equipment manufacturers. Further, these durable pieces of equipment provide secure connections in various industries across various fields of endeavor.
Bayonet Neil-Concelman (BNC) Coaxial Connector
- BNC Female to Coaxial F Female adapter
- All metal construction for improved durability
- For use with CCTV cameras
- Size: 6 x 4 x 1 inches
The Bayonet Neil-Concelman (BNC) coaxial connector is a highly reliable and flexible device, suitable for various applications and boasting three key characteristics. These include its quick connect/disconnect capability, compatibility with frequencies below 4GHz, and suitability for use in test instruments, radio, television, and video signal equipment.
One of the many advantages of BNC connectors is their rapid connection and disconnection feature. Each bayonet lug on the female connector provides a secure twisting interface that ensures stable connections while making disconnection easy when necessary. This quick connect and disconnect capability makes BNCs ideal choices for applications that require frequent changes or adjustments.
For example:
- Test Instruments
- Radio, Television, and Video Signal Equipment
Test Instruments
BNC connectors are an indispensable feature of modern test instruments, such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers. Their quick connect/disconnect capability enables accurate measurements with efficient transitions between devices. In addition, BNC connectors are a popular choice among professionals working in electronics today due to their reliability.
Radio, Television, and Video Signal Equipment
BNC connectors are widely utilized across various radio, TV, and video signal equipment applications. Their coaxial nature provides a secure and reliable means of transmitting audio and video signals, offering high-quality performance across both professional and consumer-grade applications. Further, their compatibility with frequencies below 4GHz ensures optimal signal transmission, making BNC connectors an invaluable choice in the broadcasting and telecom sectors.
Overall, these coaxial connectors provide an efficient solution for various electronics industry applications. Thanks to their quick connection/disconnection features, compatibility with frequencies below 4GHz, and suitability for use with test instruments and AV equipment, BNC connectors remain a popular choice among professionals and hobbyists alike.
TNC (Threaded Neil-Concelman) Connectors
- 50 ohm impedance
- 3GHz frequency range
- For use in communication systems, mobile antennas, etc...
- Anti-oxidation design
TNC (Threaded Neil-Concelman) connectors are a robust variation of coaxial connectors designed for outdoor applications. Featuring three key characteristics that have made them famous across industries – weatherproofing, compact size, and compatibility. With a frequency up to 12GHz, this makes TNCs essential in several communication technologies like radio and mobile phone antennas.
TNC main application:
- Radio Antennas
- Mobile Phone Antennas
Radio Antennas
One of the primary applications for TNC connectors is radio antennas. Radio communication relies on reliable connections for effective signal transmission. TNC connectors help create this stability with their threaded design that minimizes signal leakage while offering secure connections that withstand extreme environmental conditions, making them suitable for outdoor antenna installations.
Mobile Phone Antennas
We can also find TNC connectors in mobile phone antennas, providing high-frequency performance with reliable connections in limited spaces. As communications technologies advance, there has been an increased need for high frequency performance at frequencies up to 12 GHz. Luckily, TNC connectors excel at meeting this demand, while being compact enough for easy integration into antenna systems.
Typically, these connectors provide a reliable and efficient means of joining coaxial cables together in various communication systems. Their compact size, weatherproof construction, and compatibility with high frequencies make them the ideal solution for radio and mobile phone antennas. By offering secure connections across devices and platforms, these TNC connectors help facilitate smooth communication.
Subminiature Version B (SMB) Connectors
- For use in Car radio antennas
- Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Connectors included: SMB (F) to SMB (Female), SMB (F) to SMA (Male), SMA (F) to SMB (M), and SMA (M) to SMB (M)
- 1000 x plug in guarantee
Subminiature Version B (SMB) connectors are an increasingly popular type of coaxial connector due to their compact size, efficient performance, and user-friendly design. They are equipped with a snap-on coupling mechanism for quick and secure connections in various applications, making them the go-to solution for high-frequency transmission and data communication applications alike. Three of the primary benefits associated with SMB connectors include their small form factor size, impedance-matching capabilities, and reliable performance across environments.
We mainly used them in:
- Telecom Equipment
- Industrial Electronics
Telecom Equipment
SMB connectors play an integral role in the telecoms industry by seamlessly linking various components together and ensuring optimal data transmission. Widely used across devices like mobile phones, antennas, and communication systems, their compact size makes them ideal for limited spaces available within telecoms equipment. Meanwhile, their impedance matching capabilities enable seamless data transmission, reducing signal loss while optimizing performance.
Industrial Electronics
We widely use SMB connectors in industrial electronics applications where reliable and efficient connections are essential, including sensors, control systems, and testing equipment. SMBs offer secure and durable connections that stand up against demanding industrial environments, while their ability to manage high-frequency signals makes them suitable for various uses within this sector.
These connectors are multipurpose coaxial connectors designed for compactness, efficiency, and ease of use in telecoms and industrial electronics applications. Their adaptability demonstrates their capabilities across various environments while their secure connections ensure data transmission without disruption and maximize performance in every environment they serve.
QMA Connectors
- For use with coaxial cable (cable not included)
- Compatible cables: 195 RG58 RG400
- Origin: USA
QMA connectors stand out in the world of coaxial connectors due to their distinctive features. This makes them a top choice for multiple applications. They are similar in construction to SMAs, but have quick-lock and quick-disconnect features for quick coupling process speed and safety. QMAs are suitable for industrial and communication sectors, cable wiring assembly and repair applications, as well as cable assembly and installation projects.
QMA connectors distinguish themselves with three features: rapid attachment/detachment capability, robust design, and vibration resistance. These characteristics make them suitable for outdoor settings where reliable connections are essential, including use in applications like robotics.
Their primary applications are:
- Radio Base Stations
- Air Traffic Control Systems
- Transmission Equipment
Radio Base Stations
QMA connectors are popularly utilized in radio base stations due to their quick-lock feature, which ensures fast and secure connections. This shortens installation processes while decreasing signal loss or interference risk, making QMA a reliable choice for these critical communication systems.
Air Traffic Control Systems
Air traffic control systems depend on reliable connections for seamless communication between aircraft and ground control and their efficient connection systems. QMA connectors excel in this regard due to their rugged construction and reduced risk of vibration transmission. Thus, ensuring optimal functioning of air traffic control systems.
Transmission Equipment
Transmission equipment needs to manage high-frequency signals in harsh environments. QMA connectors offer exceptional RF connection capabilities and their long-lasting design makes them popular choices for various transmission systems.
MCX Connectors
- For use in Networks and Wi-Fi
- Material: Gold-plated brass
- Warranty: 12 months
- Includes 4 styles of SMA to MCX connectors
MCX connectors, or micro coaxial connectors, provide an innovative solution to applications where space, size, and weight restrictions are an issue. These connectors feature an outer diameter that is 30% smaller than that of SMB connectors and work between DC and 6GHz frequencies, with tool-free installation via their snap-on coupling design for tool-free coupling. People often employ them in wireless applications, such as GPS receivers, TV tuner cards, digital cellular platforms, and RF hardware.
The main applications for these connectors include:
- TV Tuner Cards for PCs
- GPS Systems
- Wi-Fi Routers
TV Tuner Cards for PCs
One key application of MCX connectors is TV tuner cards designed specifically for personal computers. Due to their compact size and efficient performance, these connectors enable seamless transmission of TV signals, allowing viewers to watch or record live television on their computers with no hassle.
GPS Systems
MCX connectors are essential in GPS systems, as their minimal design and high-frequency operation ensure reliable, real-time data transmission. Further, these connectors help create strong links between GPS devices and satellites, making navigation simpler and more precise for users.
Wi-Fi Routers
In today’s connected world, Wi-Fi routers are critical components to providing strong and stable internet access. Connectors for Wi-Fi routers help them function seamlessly by delivering secure and efficient connections between their various components. These compact-size connectors also make installing and maintaining Wi-Fi routers in residential or commercial settings simple!
- 300Mbps
- 802.11a wireless communication standard
- 2.4 GHz frequency band
- 6 ports
Micro coaxial connectors have become indispensable to many applications, from TV tuner cards and GPS systems to Wi-Fi routers and bridges. Their adaptability and versatility make them the ideal solution when space or weight restrictions exist.
Radio Corporation of America Connector
- For use as an AV in-line adapter
- Compatible cables: Spaced or bare wire AWG speaker cables
- Includes easy ID color bands
- Warranty: lifetime (limited)
Radio Corporation of America (RCA) connectors have long been considered essential tools in audio and video signal transmission, offering user-friendly designs with coaxial connectors for wide compatibility and user convenience.
Below are the two primary uses for RCAs:
- Audio Transmission
- Video Transmission
Audio Transmission
One of the hallmarks of RCA connectors is their capacity for efficient audio signal transmission. Therefore, they are often found in home audio systems and used to connect speakers, amplifiers, and other audio equipment. Their color-coded cables (typically red and white) simplify this process while creating an enjoyable listening experience.
Video Transmission
RCA connectors also play an integral part in video transmission, with yellow cables specially designed to connect TV sets, DVD players, and gaming consoles efficiently. Their wide array of uses has made RCAs an essential household necessity. This provides reliable access to high-quality video content without hassle or complexity.
The RCA connector is an indispensable audio and video signal transmission tool, boasting user-friendly design, wide compatibility, and reliable performance. Ideal for home theater setup or console connectivity, its simplicity and adaptability make RCA connectors your go-to solution for A/V needs.
How to Choose Your Coaxial Connector
When choosing a coaxial connector, you must understand its key parameters. These include:
- Know Your Voltage
- Assess the Environment
- Determine the Required Frequency
- Male or Female: Choose Wisely
- Consider the Options
Know Your Voltage
You must consider the voltage first. Select a connector compatible with the cable voltage; otherwise, you risk damaging equipment or experiencing performance issues.
Assess Your Environment
Consider where and when you will use your connector — indoors or outdoors? Will it be exposed to moisture, extreme temperature variations, or other harsh environments? If yes, choose coaxial connectors explicitly designed to withstand these environments.
Determine the Required Frequency
Additionally, you must know what frequency range your cable must operate within. Certain coaxial connectors have been specifically developed to support specific frequency requirements. Make sure your choice matches up perfectly with them!
Male or Female: Select Wisely
Deciding whether you need male or female connectors is another key step when purchasing hardware. Male connectors typically feature pins, while female ones feature sockets. Most cables feature male connectors, while devices usually utilize female connectors. Ensure you double-check your requirements before purchasing.
Consider Your Options
In order to select the ideal coaxial connector:
- Explore all available options.
- Compare specifications, prices, and quality.
- Look for reliable brands like SMA that produce reliable connectors. Further, reading product reviews may provide valuable insight into others’ user experiences.
When you need help to decide which connector to select, seek professional guidance. Many retailers and manufacturers employ knowledgeable staff who can guide your decision in an informed way and recommend suitable coaxial connectors.
Finding the appropriate coaxial connector requires a better understanding of the above key parameters. By adhering to these guidelines, you can confidently select the ideal coaxial connector that suits your needs.
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