BNC (Bayonet Neil Conselman)
The BNC connector has a secure and fast fastening bayonet mechanism. It is used with coaxial cable in radio, television, RF electronics, test instruments and video signals. It has an impedance of 50 ohms or 75 ohms. The frequency limit is usually 4 GHz, but can be higher if higher quality versions are used.
SMA (Sub-Miniature A)
SMA connectors are about half the size of BNC connectors and are suitable for RF connections between circuit boards, microwave filters, attenuators, mixers and oscillators.SMA connectors have a threaded connection to provide a strong connection. They have a 50-ohm impedance and an 18 GHz frequency limit.
SMB (Super Miniature B)
SMB connectors are even smaller than SMA connectors. They have a snap fastening mechanism for quick plugging and unplugging. These connectors are so small that they are used exclusively for board-to-board or component connections within equipment. These connectors have an impedance of 50 or 75 ohms and are frequency limited to 4 GHz.
N-Type
For higher performance connectors, you need to use the N-type connector. It is used in broadcast and communications equipment, power transmitters, receivers, and general RF applications. Available in 50 or 75 ohm impedance, N-Type connectors also have a threaded coupling mechanism. While their 11 GHz frequency limit is lower than SMA connectors, precision versions can operate at frequencies up to 18 GHz.
TNC (Threaded Neill-Concelman)
Finally, the threaded version of the BNC connector is the TNC connector. It has an impedance of 50 ohms and a frequency limit of 11 GHz. the bayonet mounting of BNC connectors often introduces noise in the transmitted signal. the TNC connector solves this problem. As a result, TNC connectors are able to perform at higher frequencies than BNCs.
Once you have decided on the type of RF connector, the next step is to determine which variants are required for your application. Do you need a male or female connector? Straight or right angle connectors? The individual needs of your application will determine these decisions. Most applications will work fine with straight connectors, but if space is tight, you can opt for right angle connectors. However, right-angle connectors suffer greater signal loss.
Whether you create your own custom components or leave it to the experts, we hope this has been helpful in introducing you to the world of RF connectors. Be sure to note that these are just the most common connectors in the industry today. We have not covered more variants in this blog. If you're looking for an experienced team to handle your custom RF cable assembly, contact us for a free quote.