What is a SMA Type RF Connector

Summary

SMA (Subminiature Type A) connectors are a type of high-performance miniature connector for RF/microwave applications, offering a wide range of frequencies and exceptional durability.

The body is available in stainless steel or brass, depending on the application. The impedance is 50Ω, using a threaded coupling method.
We also offer high-frequency cables when working with bands above 18 GHz. Please inquire for details.

Product List

Trivia : About Cables

  • MIL Standard

Compliant with US military standards for cables. Begins with the initials "RG" and is also called Mil-Spec.

  • Micro Coaxial Cables

Micro coaxial cables for attaching to miniature RF connectors such as U.FL.

  • Semi-flexible

Shape memory coaxial cables can be bent to a certain degree but have high shielding and low loss (attenuation).

  • Semi-rigid

Coaxial cables with higher shielding and less attenuation than semi-flexible cables using a seamless metal tube.

SMA Type RF Connector Features

Compact Size

The small size of the connector enables high-density mounting in a small space for wiring in equipment and for connections between subassemblies and devices that make up the equipment.

High Frequency

We have a line up of products that can be used in the high-frequency band from DC to 18 GHz and measurement cables that can be used up to 26.5GHz.

High Frequency Test Cables

Stability

Unlike the Quick-Connect type, the threaded coupling is recommended for a more secured connection.

SMA Type RF Connectors Applications

Mobile communication base stations, small communication devices, precision measuring instruments, wireless LAN, GPS, etc.

SMA Type RF Connector Standards & Dimensions

01

Compatible Standards

MIL-C-39012、IEC 60169-15、JEITA RC-5234

02

Impedance

50Ω

03

Coupling Method (Connection)

Threaded Coupling 1/4-36UNS-2A、2B

04

Voltage Rating

AC 500V

05

Maximum Voltage

Semi-rigid Cable : 0.085inch AC 750V one minute : 0.141inch AC 1,000V one minute
Flexible Cable : RG-316/U,RG-188A/U AC 750V one minute : RG-142B/U AC 1,000V one minute

06

Insulation Resistance

5,000MΩ min. at DC 500V

07

Mass Production

If satisfied with your tests and our quotation, you may place an order for mass production.

08

Contact Resistance

4mΩ max. at DC 0.1A

09

Frequency Range

0 ~ 12,000MHz

10

V.S.W.R.

Semi-rigid Cable : 0.085inch 1.07+0.015fG : 0.141inch 1.05+0.01fG(fG=GHz)
※Conectors for semi-flexible cables are also available, please inpuire.

11

Materials

Stainless steel, Brass

12

Surface Treatment

Passivate, Nickel plating, Gold plating

13

Wiring Method

Solder, Crimp, Tightening

Note: The figures provided are typical values. For further details, please contact us.

SMA Type RF Connector FAQ

QWhat is the difference between SMB and SMA connectors?

A

SMB (Subminiature Type B) connectors are smaller than SMA (Subminiature Type A). SMB connectors use a snap-on method for coupling, whereas SMA connectors use a threaded-on method. The snap-on type requires less effort for coupling but is less sensitive to vibration and is easier to disconnect than the threaded coupling type.

Additionally, SMBs use a lower frequency band than SMAs, so you must consider the installation location and electrical characteristics when installing an SMB.

MCX and MMCX are also miniature connectors that use the snap-on coupling mechanism.

> SMB
> MCX
> MMCX

QWhat is reverse polarity?

A

Typically, male contacts are used for plugs, and female ones are used for jacks, so the contacts mated to each other when connected.
Reverse Polarity SMA connectors have the contacts reversed from usual, with female contacts as plugs and male as jacks. This is often the case in radio communication equipment made outside of Japan.

> Reverse Connectors

QAre frequencies above 18 GHz supported?

A

Some SMA connector standard products can support up to 18 GHz. For frequencies above 18 GHz, more advanced cable processing techniques and measuring instruments are required, so we cannot guarantee the connector alone. For the above frequency bands, we sell processed cable products. We can also provide products for frequencies up to 25 GHz upon request.

> High Frequency Test Cables

QIs there a compatible connector that is even smaller?

A

There are categories such as 3.5 mm, 2.92 mm (K connectors). The outer diameter is smaller than that of SMA connectors while still being compatible (and coupling-compatible) with SMA connectors. These connectors are compatible with frequencies above 18 GHz.

Our lineup includes the TC series of cables for measurement, 3.5 mm connectors, and 2.92 mm (K) connectors.

> 2.92mm K
> 3.5mm
> High Frequency Test Cables

QWhy are SMA, 3.5 mm, and 2.92 mm K compatible but have conversion connectors?

A

SMA, 3.5 mm, and 2.92 mm are compatible and can be mated. Therefore between series adapters are useful at research facilities, universities, and other sites where severe measurements are required.


> Between Series SMA-3.5mm
> Between Series SMA-2.92mm K

QUsing screws to join connectors is cumbersome. Is there a product that allows quick detachable connectors?

A

Quick connect adapters, which allows for quick and easy connection with all existing threaded connectors. It improves efficiency at measurement sites. Quick connect adapters are available in N and SMA.

> Quick adaptors for Measurement

QAre waterproof connectors available?

A

Waterproof SMA connectors are available. IP levels differ depending on the product.
Please find the following for more details.

  1. Waterproofing of connector mating parts
  2. Waterproofing of the tube at the cable attachment point
  3. O-ring waterproofing at the cable attachment point
  4. O-ring waterproofing at flange mounting


> SMA Waterproof

Catalog

SMA Type RF Connector Catalog

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Download SMA Catalog