UHF Connectors (PL-259 / SO-239)

What are UHF connectors?

UHF connectors, mainly identified by the PL-259 (male) and SO-239 (female) designations, are among the most widely used RF connectors in HF/VHF applications and the ham radio community. Commonly used for antennas, CB equipment, transceivers and station cabling, they provide reliable connections at low and medium frequencies. They are compatible with many coaxial cables such as RG58, RG213 and other antenna cables.

Technical characteristics of PL-259 / SO-239 connectors

UHF connectors offer strength, ease of assembly and broad compatibility. Key features include:

• Universal compatibility with the most common coaxial cables used in ham radio and CB systems.
• Optimized HF/VHF operating range, ideal for frequencies from 1 to 150 MHz.
• Good mechanical robustness and reliable contacts, even in outdoor installations.
• PTFE (Teflon) insulation in professional-grade versions, providing superior electrical stability and better thermal resistance compared to low-cost plastic insulators.
• Easy assembly, available in solder, crimp or screw-type versions depending on the cable type.
• Cable and panel-mount versions for antennas, radio equipment, base mounts and RF enclosures.

PL-259 and SO-239: differences and uses

The PL-259 connector is the most common male plug for terminating coaxial cables used with antennas, CB radios and ham radio stations. The SO-239 connector is the corresponding female panel jack, typically mounted on transceivers, antenna bases, adapters and RF enclosures.

In ham radio terminology, the variants PL259 and SO239 (without the dash) are also very common and refer to the same connector types.

Typical applications

UHF PL-259 / SO-239 connectors are ideal for:

• Ham radio stations (HF/VHF), both fixed and mobile.
• CB antennas and 27 MHz mobile antenna systems.
• Transceivers (handheld or base units).
• Coaxial cabling for radio installations, extensions and jumpers.
• Low-frequency RF monitoring systems and test equipment.

Available variants

The catalogue includes several UHF connector configurations to cover a wide range of installation needs:

• PL-259 cable connectors for RG58, RG213 and other antenna coaxial cables.
• SO-239 panel jacks for transceivers, antenna bases and RF housings.
• Nickel-plated or silver-plated versions for improved conductivity and durability.
• Crimp-type UHF connectors for fast and uniform assembly.

Why choose RF-Microwave

• Wide availability of the most common PL-259 and SO-239 UHF connectors.
• High-quality construction with PTFE-insulated versions for superior RF performance.
• Guaranteed compatibility with the coaxial cables most used in ham radio and CB.
• Fast shipping for replacements and urgent installations.
• Technical support to help you choose the right connector for your cable and application.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PL-259 and SO-239?
The PL-259 is the male cable connector, while the SO-239 is the female panel jack. Both are standard in ham radio applications.

Which cables are compatible with UHF connectors?
They are compatible with RG58, RG213 and other coaxial cables used for HF/VHF antennas and CB equipment.

Are UHF connectors suitable for high-frequency use?
No. They are designed for HF/VHF operation and not intended for microwave or very high-frequency applications.

Can I use PL-259 and SO-239 connectors for CB antennas?
Yes, they are the most widely used standard for CB antennas, 27 MHz equipment and ham radio stations.

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