Features and classification of SMA connectors

The SMA connector is a widely used small threaded connection of RF coaxial connector. SMA connectors has many varieties and specifications, and there are more than 20 international common series, more varieties as well as specifications. The SMA connector relies on the mechanical structure to ensure the electrical characteristics, which is a mechatronic product.

Here is the content list:

l Brief introduction of SMA connectors

l Features of SMA connectors

l Classification of SMA connectors

Brief introduction of SMA connectors

1、The SMA connector is a widely used semi-precision ultra-miniature RF and microwave connector, mainly for frequencies up to 18 GHz or even higher in the electronic system of radio frequency connection.

2、SMA connector applications include telecommunications communications, networks, wireless communications, and measurement instruments, with a wide frequency band, good performance, and other characteristics.

3、The SMA connector also has a variety of shapes, such as male, female straight, right angle, bulkhead fittings, and so on., making it possible to meet most requirements.

Features of SMA connectors

The SMA connector is featured by wide frequency band, good performance, high reliability, and long life. The SMA connector has the advantage that the cable medium is directly connected to the interface without an air gap, while its disadvantage is that only a limited number of connection or disconnection cycles can be performed. However, this is unlikely to be a problem for applications using semi-rigid coaxial cables, as the installation is usually fixed after the initial assembly.

Classification of SMA connectors

1、The profile types of SMA connectors can be classified as straight, 90-degree radial, or 90-degree right angle several as well as press-in, bulkhead, 2-hole-flange, or 4-hole-flange SMA connectors. And the construction types of SMA connectors can be classified as male or female, while styles include standard polarity, reverse polarity or reverse thread.

2、Among them, the SMA male connector, connected by crimp or solder, can be used for coaxial cables PE-C240, RG8X, LMR-240, LMR-240-DB, LMR-240-UF, B7808A, and so on. An SMA female connector, with solder connections, can be used for surface-mount PCBs. For example, our SMA connector RG174 from LenoRF is the female one.

3、SMA connectors also can be divided into test-grade connectors and production-grade connectors. Among all connector grades, test-grade connectors have the best performance and are often used as calibrators. To provide a high level of performance and reliability, the adapters will use special media and slotless female connections. This allows them to maintain good accuracy after repeated use. These test-grade SMA connectors are used for inputs and outputs of instruments or test equipment with good performance, tight tolerances, and long life.

4、Production grade SMA connectors, on the other hand, are used for products with low performance, large tolerances, limited connection time, and low price. Whenever production-grade SMA connectors are used, the connectors need to be carefully inspected. Typically, they will be used on products that do not require reconnection after installation. It does not need to be reconnected after installation.

If you want to know more about the SMA connector of our company, LenoRF, please consult us. The website is www.rfcnn.com.