What are RF coaxial connectors?
RF coaxial connectors are interfaces designed to ensure stable, precise and reliable transmission of radio-frequency signals. Used in professional applications such as telecommunications, wireless systems, laboratory instrumentation, measurement equipment and industrial installations, they provide low loss, excellent impedance continuity and consistent performance even in demanding environments.
How to choose the right RF connector
Selecting the correct RF connector depends on several technical factors that vary by application:
- Operating frequency: each interface supports a specific range, from MHz up to microwave and millimetre-wave bands above 40 GHz.
- Power handling: some connectors are optimised for high power, others for very high-frequency or precision microwave signals.
- Environment: indoor, outdoor, harsh conditions, fixed or mobile installations.
- Mechanical robustness: threaded, bayonet, high-strength or compact formats for advanced electronics.
- Cable compatibility: RG coaxial cables, low-loss cables or microwave-grade assemblies.
Types of RF connectors available
The catalogue includes a wide range of interfaces to suit any professional requirement. Threaded, bayonet, high-power and microwave connectors are available, along with compact variants for modules and specialised applications. Commonly used RF families include SMA, N, BNC, TNC, UHF, RP-SMA, 7/16, 4.3-10, 3.5mm, 2.92mm, SMB, HN, RP-TNC and many other industry-standard interfaces.
| Interface | Coupling | Typical application | Typical frequency range |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMA | Threaded | RF & microwave, modules, instrumentation | DC – 18 GHz (up to ~26–27 GHz for high-performance types) |
| N | Threaded | Medium/high-power RF, outdoor systems, antennas | DC – 11 GHz (some versions up to ~18 GHz) |
| BNC | Bayonet | Instrumentation, low/mid-frequency RF | DC – 4 GHz |
| TNC | Threaded | Rugged RF, outdoor and industrial environments | DC – 11 GHz |
| UHF (PL) | Threaded | Amateur radio, legacy systems, sub-GHz RF | Up to ~300 MHz |
| RP-SMA | Threaded (reverse polarity) | Wi-Fi, WLAN, routers, wireless antennas | DC – 6 GHz |
| 7/16 DIN | Threaded | High-power RF, telecom, base stations | DC – 7.5 GHz |
| 4.3-10 | Threaded / push-pull | Modern telecom, compact base stations, LTE/5G | DC – 6 GHz |
| 3.5mm (PC 3.5) | Threaded | High-precision RF and microwave measurements | DC – 26.5 GHz |
| 2.92mm (K / SK) | Threaded | Microwave & millimetre-wave, radar, advanced test | DC – 40 GHz |
| SMB | Push-on | Compact RF interconnections, internal modules | DC – 4 GHz |
| HN | Threaded | High-power and high-voltage RF applications | DC – 3 GHz (depending on model) |
| RP-TNC | Threaded (reverse polarity) | Outdoor Wi-Fi, professional wireless access points | DC – 6 GHz |
Applications of RF coaxial connectors
- Laboratory instrumentation – oscilloscopes, RF generators, analyzers, test modules.
- RF and microwave systems – modules, amplifiers, filters, antennas and wireless devices.
- Telecommunications – radio stations, wireless networks, outdoor RF systems and professional infrastructure.
- Broadcast and communication – professional audio/video equipment and legacy systems.
- Industry and automation – sensors, custom equipment and high-reliability RF links.
Why choose RF-Microwave
- Complete professional catalogue with RF interfaces for all major technical requirements.
- Selected components ensuring consistent performance and high-grade build quality.
- Wide availability for RF and microwave applications.
- Specialised technical support to identify the most suitable connector for your needs.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between RF connector types?
Each interface is optimised for specific frequency ranges, power levels and use conditions. Some are designed for microwave, others for high power, outdoor operation or compact installations.
How do I choose the right connector for my application?
Evaluate frequency, power, environment, mechanical format and cable compatibility. Our team can assist you in selecting the best solution.
Are these connectors compatible with RG cables?
Many models support standard RG cables, low-loss cables and microwave-grade assemblies.
Do you offer solutions for microwave and high-power applications?
Yes, we supply connectors suitable for microwave frequencies up to 26–40 GHz and formats designed for high-power RF systems.
Need assistance? Contact us – our technical team is ready to help.