Types of RF Cable Assemblies
RF cable assemblies come in various configurations to meet the diverse needs of different industries and applications. Below are the primary types based on cable construction and connector styles:
1. Cable Types
Micro-Coaxial Cable: Ultra-small diameter cables (0.81 mm to 1.37 mm) ideal for applications with limited space such as mobile devices and aerospace systems. They offer high reliability and sensitivity.
Flexible Coaxial Cable: Typically featuring stranded center conductors for repeated flexing or solid conductors for low-loss performance. Common types include RG-58, RG-174, and RG-316. These cables are widely used in data transmission and video applications.
Conformable Semi-Rigid Cable: These cables combine the low-loss characteristics of semi-rigid cables with hand-formable flexibility, allowing them to be shaped without special tools. Perfect for high-quality signal transmission where cable manipulation is necessary.
Semi-Rigid and Corrugated Cables: Used in fixed installations requiring excellent shielding and minimal signal loss, such as microwave and satellite systems.
2. Connector Types
Popular RF connectors include:
SMA (SubMiniature version A): Threaded connectors supporting frequencies up to 18 GHz, commonly used in microwave systems.
BNC (Bayonet Neill–Concelman): Quick connect/disconnect connectors for 50 Ω and 75 Ω systems.
N-Type: Robust threaded connectors for outdoor and high-power applications.
MCX/MMCX: Snap-on connectors for compact devices.
TNC (Threaded Neill–Concelman): Threaded variant of BNC, offering better performance at higher frequencies.
Fakra: Automotive-grade connectors designed for high-speed data in vehicles.
SMP/SMB/SMC: High-frequency connectors for board-to-board and cable-to-board applications.
