Passive Components

RSS

The N series of coaxial connector is the most widely used series for low to medium power applications in the DC to 11 GHz frequency range. The N connector is particularly well suited for applications in harsh environments or those where there is a high number of mating cycles. A relatively recent improvement has been the introduction of the Precision N connector, which operates up to 18 GHz. A major inconvenience of the traditional N connector is the threaded coupling mechanism. This has led to the invention of the Quick Lock N (QL-N) type connector, which showcases a quick disconnect feature.

At the SMA connector’s inception, the operating frequency didn’t exceed 12 GHz. As the design matured, the maximum operating frequency was pushed up to 18 GHz and eventually higher. As higher operating frequencies have become common over the past several decades, other interfaces, most of which are considered precision interfaces designed for laboratory use, have been introduced to handle signal transmission at frequencies far exceeding 18 GHz. However, the SMA connector design can be optimized to extend the maximum operating frequency of the interface to offer a reliable and cost-effective solution to the higher frequency requirements of modern systems.