Cable connectors for microwave applications from Aspen

3rd March 2009

ES Admin

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Just announced by Aspen Electronics is the SMK range of high performance cable connectors for microwave applications, designed and built by Delta Electronics Manufacturing. These 2.92mm connectors are aimed at a wide range of industries developing applications requiring frequency coverage up to 40GHz, including defence, aerospace, high speed mobile and fixed line telecommunications systems and general test and instrumentation applications.

A key performance feature of the SMK range is a maximum VSWR of 1.15:1 for cable connectors operating from DC to 18GHz and 1.3:1 for models from 18 to 40GHz. The maximum VSWR for receptacles and adaptors is 1.15:1 from DC to 18GHz and 1.25:1 from 18 to 40GHz.

Interfacing is similar to that of SMA connectors, but these devices use an air dielectric and Noryl support bead to give a higher cut-off frequency and smaller size. The internal design is optimised using sophisticated electromagnetic finite element analysis models and simulation to provide a low reflection coefficient. A thick wall construction delivers improved electrical reliability and mechanical strength over SMA designs.

Additional technical characteristics include voltage ratings specified at 335Vrms at sea level or 85Vrms at 70,000ft, while dielectric withstanding voltage for the cable connectors and receptacles is quoted at 1kVrms at sea level and 1.5kVrms at altitude. Nominal impedance is 50ohms and insulation resistance is 5Gohms minimum. RF leakage is specified at -100dB at 2.5GHz.

Field replaceable receptacles are available in three mounting flange configurations. They suit a number of hermetic seal and accessory pin dimensions. Operating temperature range is -55 to +135oC and vibration, shock, thermal shock, corrosion and moisture resistance characteristics meet MIL-STD-202 norms.