How to choose an RF microwave adapter?

As RF engineers and testers, in daily work processes, the most commonly encountered equipment besides testing instruments, calibration components, and connecting cables are various RF microwave adapters of different specifications. In the field of RF and microwave applications, choosing the right adapter is crucial, as the selection of RF and microwave adapters affects the accuracy of our instrument's testing data. How do we choose an RF microwave adapter? Below, the editor will explain in detail for you.

RF microwave adapter is an essential component in electronic measurement, serving as a bridge between the tested object and the testing instrument. It not only enables signal transmission, but also plays an important role in ensuring communication quality and reducing signal loss. In the microwave field, many adapters are used, and each adapter design has a special purpose and application.

For testing engineers, commonly used adapters include N-type, BNC, SMA, 3.5mm, 2.4mm, and 1.85mm. Let's first select some commonly used adapters to understand:

N-type coaxial adapter

It is a medium to high power adapter with a threaded adapter structure, which has the characteristics of strong seismic resistance, high reliability, and good mechanical and electrical performance. It is commonly used in the fields of RF module RF connection, lightning arrester, power divider, combiner, etc.

BNC coaxial adapter

A bayonet type RF coaxial adapter, characterized by fast connection and reliable contact, is widely used in the fields of wireless equipment and electronic instruments.

SMA series adapter

A widely used small threaded coaxial adapter. It has excellent lifespan and high reliability, and is widely used in microwave equipment and digital communication.

What factors should be considered when choosing an RF microwave adapter?

Impedance: Like other microwave devices, characteristic impedance is a basic indicator. There are two types of adapter characteristic impedance: 50 Ω and 75 Ω. Almost all RF adapters have a standard 50 Ω impedance, with the exception of the 75 Ω TV system adapter.

Frequency range: The RF operating frequency starts from 0Hz and is divided into several levels. The frequency range of the adapter must be carefully considered. Generally speaking, the smaller the size of the outer conductor, the higher the operating frequency of the adapter.

Insertion loss: Insertion loss is an important indicator of an adapter, and the normal insertion loss of an adapter is between 0.1-0.5dB. If the insertion loss is too high, it is not recommended to choose.

Voltage standing wave ratio: Voltage standing wave ratio is one of the most important indicators for evaluating RF microwave adapters, and is usually used to measure the quality of the adapter. In general, the range of voltage standing wave ratio should be kept within 1.2. But it is not necessarily necessary to achieve 1.2. Some may meet the requirements if they are below 1.5 or 2.

In addition to paying attention to the electrical performance mentioned above, the reliability, stability, and durability of the adapter are all factors that need to be considered. From the above, it can be seen that only high-quality production and manufacturing processes can produce adapters that meet various indicators and characteristics, which requires high technical strength and manufacturing processes from adapter manufacturers.

To choose an adapter manufacturer that meets high standards, we recommend Xinqiyuan Technology Company. They have been committed to the development and production of RF microwave electronic devices and have a group of high-precision professional RF technology developers. Their RF microwave adapters have the following advantages:

High stability: The RF microwave adapter shell launched by Xinqiyuan Technology is made of brass material and has a gold plating process on the surface. It can pass the 48 hour salt spray test and has high reliability, allowing the adapter to maintain stable signal transmission and connection in harsh environments. It has higher stability and reliability, and can meet the needs of high-end application scenarios. It is widely used in military, aerospace, radar satellite, wireless communication and other fields.

Long service life: The adapter structure launched by Xinqiyuan Technology is stable, and the conductor material is made of metal gold-plated technology, with a service life of more than 500 times.

Excellent standing wave ratio: The Xinqiyuan Technology adapter has a standing wave ratio of 1.2:1 and an insertion loss of 0.21dB, demonstrating excellent performance.

At the same time, in order to ensure the stability of the adapter and ensure its normal operation in various environments, Xinqiyuan Technology has also optimized it to work normally in environments ranging from -55 ℃ to+165 ℃.