San-tron Inc., (www.santron.com), an RF coaxial connector and cable assembly manufacturer, describes engineering parameters, design and manufacturing challenges, and performance characteristics of the 40 GHz S292 series of 2.92 mm connectors and plugs in the video “An Introduction to San-tron S292 Connectors.” 

Developed for RF/microwave engineers designing components for demanding applications in the 40 GHz or K-Band ranges, San-tron S292 40 GHz connectors offer VSWR of <1.18 through 40 GHz.  Designed to industry standard high-performance 0.012 glass-to-metal feedthru, San-tron’s transitional RF geometry greatly reduces the tolerance sensitivity of the final interconnection. This design enables many next-generation microwave systems, such as high frequency airport body scanners.

“To meet our customers’ requirements for robust 40 GHz capability, we needed a solid transition from the glass bead into the connector,” explains San-tron Director of Engineering Fred Hull. “We designed our structure to meet the customer’s specifications, resulting in a flat TDR response from the glass bead into the connector.”

The connector’s 0.0689 launch diameter and center-contact geometry are specifically oriented to the Thunderline-Z 0.012 pinned glass beads and are RF matched to the dielectric properties of the #7070 Corning glass, resulting in impressive VSWR figures through 40 GHz for S292 connectors. 

To meet the robust requirements of military and satellite avionics and achieve the flat TDR response, San-tron selected tough and reliable Delrin acetal resin as the dielectric component. “A rock-hard material, Delrin enabled us to achieve low TDR response in a one-piece construction,” notes Hull.

San-tron supplies both female and male versions of the high-performance field-replaceable panel receptacles – in seven flange styles and with two-hole and four-hole options – for full compatibility with Anritsu K, APC 3.5, SMA, WSMA, and 3.50 mm connectors. 

The plots in the photo (presented as a baseline) represent data from two connectors mated via a Thunderline-Z feedthru and exhibit VSWR of <1.04 through 12 GHz and <1.18 through 40 GHz. The San-tron S292 video provides a detailed explanation of the plots.   

*K Connector is a registered trademark of Anritsu.