RF, Microwave, and mmWave Interconnects

Glenair QwikConnect Magazine • January 2023 • Volume 27 • Number 1

GLENAIR • JANUARY 2023 • VOLUME 27 • NUMBER 1

Turn Your Radio On INTERCONNECT SOLUTIONS FOR HIGH-FREQUENCY RF

Turn Your

INTERCONNECT SOLUTIONS FOR HIGH-FREQUENCY RF

Radio On

RF (Radio Frequency) refers to generated electromagnetic radiation (AKA radio signals) propagated through free air or space via a transmit antenna for collection and use by a receive antenna and its associated electronics. More simply, RF refers to the use of emitted electromagnetic radiation to (wirelessly) transfer information between two circuits that have no direct electrical connection. Common day-to-day systems such as over-the-air TV and cell phones employ digital RF due to the massive data rates afforded by Very and Ultra high-frequency electromagnetic wavelengths. Analog RF is found in less data-intensive systems: • Radio station RF signals captured by the antenna of your car • Police speed-gun RF signals sent and received by the officer’s hand-held unit • Television remote control units sending RF signals from the couch to the box History buffs may appreciate a brief homage to Heinrich Hertz, the gifted German physicist who

successfully demonstrated the existence of electromagnetic waves. In recognition of his achievement, Heinrich’s peers eponymously attached his name to the unit of measure used for frequency (the rate one wavelength travels in one second) forever enshrining it as one “Hertz.” Radio Wave frequencies (RF,

Heinrich Hertz

Microwave, and Millimeter Wave) occupy the low-end of the electromagnetic spectrum. The RF segments, or frequency bands. span from ELF (Extremely Low Frequency, 30 to 300 Hz) to VHF (Very High Frequency, 30 MHz to 300 MHz). Frequency bands ranging from UHF (Ultra High Frequency, 300 MHz – 3 GHz) to Ka (30 GHz) are conventionally referred to as the Microwave spectrum. Millimeter wave form frequencies fall between 40GHz and 300GHz. Interestingly, as electromagnetic frequency increases

30 Hz

300 Hz

3 kHz

30 kHz

300 kHz

3 MHz

30 MHz

300 MHz

1 GHz

2 GHz

3 GHz

4 GHz

8 GHz

12.5 GHz

18 GHz

26.5 GHz

30 GHz

40 GHz

300 GHz

>300 GHz

ELF

Microwaves

VLF

VHF

UHF L-Band

S-Band

SHF

C-Band

X-Band

EHF

Millimeter

Relative positions of the most common frequency bands (not to scale). ELF = Extremely Low Frequency VF = Voice Frequency VLF = Very Low Frequency LF = Low Frequency MF = Medium Frequency

HF = High Frequency VHF = Very High Frequency UHF = Ultra High Frequency SHF = Super High Frequency EHF = Extremely High Frequency

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

SATCOM The RF communications subsystem is an essential part of every spacecraft. It is required to transmit important health and telemetry data down to Earth, as well as receive commands from ground operators. As with all spacecraft subsystems, there are power and mass constraints placed on the comm system, and engineers must make numerous compromises in performance and efficiency.

beyond the highest RF frequency bands, it manifests as light—from infrared radiation (IR), to visible, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. The physical design of RF circuits is generally determined by the wavelengths present within the radiation band of interest. The two basic design strategies are either 1) to keep all the devices and features so small (say smaller than

When designing a RF comm system, the first trades performed are for data rate, power consumption, and total mass. For example, a mission with high data rate needs would select a high frequency such as X-band for downlink and a directional high-gain antenna. Based on the ground station locations available, engineers would perform link budget analyses to determine the minimum power needed for a specific ground station antenna. This analysis would factor in rain and atmospheric attenuation, as well as modulation and coding. A few different link budget trades will be run, varying antenna size, RF output power and data rate. Each link will return a different margin of decibels, representing the reliability of the system. The engineers will proceed to calculate the final mass and power for each configuration. The mission designer will have a limit on mass and power constraints for the communications subsystem. Each configuration traded will compare data rate, power, and mass. A high data rate downlink may cost a high amount of mass for the antenna and power for the amplifier and radio. Conversely, a low-power, low- mass system may have a lower data rate. Another factor that is considered in the design phase is pointing. Depending on the orbit of the satellite and whether the link is UL/DL or XL, the system may have a specific pointing requirement. Large satellites frequently use gimbals—platforms that can pivot to point their antennas. The addition of a gimbal will increase the overall mass and power draws of the system. CubeSats frequently trade high- gain antennas for low-gain, omni-directional ones to maintain the link regardless of directionality. CubeSats may also change their attitude to point a body-mounted antenna, rather than use a gimbal.

1/10th of a wavelength) to ensure there is minimal opportunity for the radiation to escape or couple in unwanted ways or 2) to work on a larger scale and guide or manage the radiation fields in an environment optimized for their propagation. Examples of the former approach would be a transistor on a computer chip circuit, where the dimensions are so small compared to the natural wavelength propagation that size can be neglected to first order. A waveguide or coax cable on the other hand has dimensions optimized to “guide” the radiation modes between metallic surfaces. The performance of such devices is highly sensitive to variance in physical size. Designing a system capable of operating over a broad range of frequencies and scale can, in this regard, be a significant challenge. The division of the electromagnetic spectrum into bands is helpful, as one can typically design a device optimized for the largest possible area within each band, and then work to minimize the damage in the remaining frequencies. A classic example of this challenge is the design of an antenna, a device used to convert a current/ voltage on a conductor into an electromagnetic radiation. In its simplest form, an antenna consists of a symmetric disposition of two conductors, both fed from their center. This is called a dipole or Hertz antenna. Dipole antennas create a relatively homogeneous radiation strength-pattern in the plane perpendicular to the arms and will work over a reasonably broad spectrum centered around the half wavelength of the system (the length of the two arms equals half a wavelength). But for a fixed point-to-point communication system, it is not optimal because radiation is not concentrated along the direction of the link. This illustration points to two key figures of merit for an antenna: directivity

QwikConnect • January 2023

U.S. Department of Commerce / NTIA poster shows frequency allocations across the radio spectrum. AM and FM radio, TV broadcast, as well as WiFi, Cellular, maritime navigation, and even space communication frequencies may be identified on the chart.

and efficiency. Directivity is the measure of how the energy of the radiation is directed in space, while efficiency is the measure of how much of the feed power was converted into useful electromagnetic radiation. Obviously the most efficient frequency of a dipole antenna is when the excitation frequency matches the half-wavelength size of the arms. The starting point for the RF circuit is the signal generator. In a laboratory, an RF signal generator produces the signal to test the proper functionality of RF circuits to ensure proper field functionality. RF generators produce a well-defined signal frequency, amplitude, and phase. This signal is then fed into a device under test, and the resulting amplitude and phase changes are measured. The changes are captured in a matrix called the “S” parameter matrix. In real-world applications, such as a satellite comms system (see sidebar), the role of the generator is assumed by the transmit/

receive radio that combines multiple functions including RF signal generation, modulation, encoding and transmission of the signal to and from the antenna. In practice, signals are transmitted between LRU’s and antennas on purpose-built coaxial cables, the construction of which consists of: • Center Conductor • Dielectric • Outer Conductor • Jacket (if required for environmental protection) The term coaxial refers to the inner conductor and the outer shield sharing a geometric axis. The electromagnetic field carrying the signal exists only in the space between these two conductors. Flexible coaxial cables may be selected with a stranded center conductor which aids flexibility but increases loss in like-for-like designs. Conformable or Semi- Rigid cables typically have a solid center conductor which is friendlier to loss-budgets but more difficult to route. The outer conductor on flexible cables can be a conductive braid screen, tape, or combination. Better screening, such as a double-screen or screen-plus- tape, offer lower loss, but again can affect flexibility. Special “conformable” cables have a tin-dipped outer braid (sometimes with a tape serving as an auxiliary shield underneath). Semi-Rigid cable types have solid outer conductor (commonly copper or aluminium). See sidebar for more cable details.

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

Radiation pattern of vertical half-wave dipole; vertical section shown in linear scale (top) and in decibels (bottom)

-5

-15

-25

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

Performance and Loss in an RF Transmission Line When passing an RF signal through a transmission line, some of the power is invariably lost in a phenomenon known as attenuation. Attenuation is frequency dependent, with high frequency transmissions almost always leading to higher levels of power (signal) loss. Signal loss through coaxial

cable can occur for various reasons, such as radiation exiting the cable via apertures or imperfections in the outer shield, resistive losses in the cable conductors, and signal absorption in the cable dielectric—particularly in long-length cable runs. Better attenuation performance can be achieved through the use of more conductive shielding materials, such as silver plated versus non-plated copper and by lowering the dielectric constant. Using larger-diameter coaxial cable increases the surface area of metal and thus reduces the resistive losses per unit length.

Cable Construction Coax cables are typically supplied in 50-Ohm and 75-Ohms impedances, created by altering the ratio of the inner conductor to the outer conductor. 50-Ohm cable is a “best of both worlds” design, as 30-Ohms delivers best power handling while 70-Ohm delivers lowest signal attenuation (loss). 50-Ohm cable is thus preferred for higher power and frequency video and digital audio signals. For less power intensive interconnection to a radio or RF receiver, 75-Ohm Coax cable is ideal.

The center conductor in the Coax cable carries the signal, with the electromagnetic energy traveling on the outermost portion of the center conductor in a phenomenon called “skin-effect.” Some larger diameter cables may use a hollow tube, as the dielectric constant of dry air in low-frequency applications delivers acceptable low-loss performance. Smaller form-factor cables may use a variety of core and shield plating materials as well as various thicknesses of plating to optimize the electrical signal. The insulator or dielectric surrounding the inner conductor may be solid plastic, a foam plastic, or air with spacers supporting the inner wire. The dielectric helps maintain the concentricity of the center conductor and contributes significantly to the electrical performance of the cable. Dielectric materials used by Glenair include PTFE and extended ETFE for low attenuation at microwave frequencies. We also utilize LPCF to minimize phase shift caused by temperature change with less than 250 ppm/°C phase change from -40 to +60 °C. Many conventional coaxial cables use braided copper wire forming the outer conductive shield. While this improves flexibility compared to solid outer conductors it may result in gaps in the shield layer which can lead to higher attenuation and cross-talk. For this reason, high-performance applications with low-loss budgets typically rely on more highly engineered designs. Glenair constructed cable may incorporate as many as four metallic layers for greater than 90 dB of shielding effectiveness including designs with flat SPC (Silver-Plated Copper braid) flat tape inner shield, aluminum/polyimide foil interlayer, and round SPC braid outer shield. Cables with a solid outer conductor facilitate shape-memory forming where required, are electrically stable, and ideal for use in areas with limited space and high vibration resistance requirements. Semi-rigid cable with solid outer conductors are also used on higher-frequency applications to take advantage of the low-impedance solid tube performance. Designs supplied by Glenair are available with PTFE dielectric and in special low loss / higher temperature versions. The outer jacket, when used, serves as a protective barrier to the coaxial cable. FEP is a typical outer jacket material, however, there are other jacket materials available to meet unique application requirements such as resistance to ultraviolet light, harsh chemical environments, radiation, oxidation, high heat, abrasion, cutting, and so on. For internal chassis applications the insulating jacket is typically omitted.

QwikConnect • January 2023

Think of the signal flow as liquid traveling through a hose. You want as smooth a “flow” as possible. The plot on the left is good to 26.5 GHz, 1.40:1 VSWR, the one on the right is very bad almost 3.5:1 @ 3 GHz

Phase Matching and Phase Stability A signal travelling through a medium will have a particular phase length in degrees (one wavelength adds 360° to the phase). Phase length is determined by the transmission medium (cable type) and the mechanical length. Cables that are made from the same material and matched in phase will also be mechanically matched. Matching can be undertaken to a particular value, or in relation to other cables— important in cases where signals need to arrive at a given point at the same time (i.e. antenna arrays). The phase length of an assembly can vary with flexure and temperature, which needs to be compensated for. Different materials and cable constructions can help reduce the problem, often the goal is to eliminate the “Teflon Knee”. The mechanical properties of PTFE affect electrical length (phase) dramatically in the 18° – 25° C range, causing the phase shift described above. A plot of this change resembles a knee. Glenair 962-011 cable greatly reduces this “knee” from 1300–1500 (ppm) to below 200 (ppm). Available in -402 and -200 sizes, with FEP or Tefzel jacketing.

Back reflections in a transmission line also impact electrical performance and are the result of discontinuity in the RF line caused by changes of impedance. This can be a result of changing conductor and dielectric diameters, interface dimensions, or gaps between parts. Reflections are generally measured in two ways: Return Loss —this is expressed in dB and indicates the ratio of transmitted to reflected power. Ideal return loss is a high number (infinity = no reflection). An RL of 3dB means 50% of the power is reflected, 6dB means 25% reflected. An RL of 0dB would be caused by a short or open circuit (100% reflected) VSWR —Voltage Standing Wave Ratio. Two waves will propagate along a mismatched line -- one travels forward, while the other is reflected. Both waves have the same frequency, and the reflected voltage is added to the transmitted voltage. This causes a standing wave. The size of the reflected wave to the transmitted wave (max to min) is the ratio. An ideal line gives a VSWR of 1 (no reflection). More reflections equal a higher ratio (e.g. 1.2:1). dBi —Decibel isotropic is the logarithm of the ratio of power emitted by the antenna, divided by the power of an isotropic radiator. Power Handling Larger cables can handle more power than smaller types (when using the same materials). Changing dielectric and jacket materials can help improve power handling, but this can have an impact on insertion loss. Trapped air pockets within cables or other components are of concern in power transmission on satellites. Power handling needs to be de-rated for frequency, ambient temperature, pressure, and reflections (VSWR/Return Loss). The Velocity of Propagation or Vp of the cable is represented as a percentage of the speed of light. Extruded PTFE (Teflon) cables have a Vp of 69.5%. Taped PTFE and ePTFE have more air and have much higher velocities (80% & higher)

1500

1000

The Dread “ Teflon Knee ”

500

-80°

-60°

-40°

-20°

-0°

20° temperature

40°

60°

80°

100°

120°

Standard PTFE

Glenair 962-011 Low Phase Change cable

The graph above plots the performance of standard PTFE coax cable (the red line) vs. Glenair 962-011 Low Phase Change Cable (the blue line). Note the “Teflon Knee” phase shift.

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

ANTENNAS

Satellite antennas, combined with transmitters, receivers, and transponders turn orbiting satellites into radio relay stations whose primary mission is the uplink and downlink of RF communications from one point on earth to another. Transponders are sophisticated on- board processing units used to demodulate, decode, re-encode, and re-transmit RF traffic captured via on-board satellite antennas.

Modern communication satellites utilize four types of antennas for RF, Microwave and mmWave communications. The physical structure of the antenna defines its name and type: wire, horn, reflector, or array. Let’s take a brief look at each.

Wire antennas were commonly employed on large form-factor GEO satellites such as those launched for INTELSAT, the international telecom consortium. Wire antennas are omnidirectional; that is, they transmit and receive signal strength in all directions. Monopole and dipole are two common configurations. Wire length is critical to managing gain and impedance performance. On early versions of INTELSAT, antenna gain in the neighborhood of 4 dBi for receive and 9 dBi for transmit was typical. In today’s modern satellite networks, wire antennas are considered suitable for use in tracking, telemetry, and command (TT&C) functions. Horn or aperture antennas are employed on satellites for microwave frequency signals. The antenna consists of a flared metal waveguide that concentrates the radio wave in a beam. For transmission, radio waves are introduced into the waveguide via a coaxial cable attached to the side, with the central conductor projecting into the waveguide to form a quarter-wave monopole antenna. The waves then radiate out of the horn end in a focused beam. At the receiving end, horns are frequently employed as feeds for reflector antennas. The reflector antenna is most popular format used in communications satellites due its rugged structure, small form- factor, and high-gain performance. Types include paraboloid, hyperboloid, and spheroid. A reflector antenna consists of a curved reflecting surface and a feed system. Curved reflectors increase the strength of a signal for all wave forms, including lower frequency RF, microwave as well as optical energy. Deployable reflector antenna utilizing collapsed

aluminum or mesh sides are widely used to provide larger aperture and increased gain strength. Array antennas generate directional beams via a patterned array or grouping of individual radiators, called elements. The many individual elements of the array antenna allow flexibility in modulating frequencies, phases as well as steering the signal. An array antenna is essentially a set of connected antennas which work together to transmit or receive radio waves. The individual elements are typically connected to a single receiver or transmitter by feedlines that feed the power to the elements in a specific phase relationship.

Third-Generation Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TRDS) Capabilities. Note the numerous antenna types and functions. (Source: NASA)

QwikConnect • January 2023

The Glenair ecosystem of mission-critical RF technologies: contacts, connectors, cables, and fully-integrated interconnect assemblies.

AEROSPACE-GRADE RUGGEDIZED RF, MICROWAVE, AND mmWAVE COAXIAL CABLE ASSEMBLIES

50 Ohm Flexible Coax Cable Jumpers

RF Connector Accessories

SMA 086, SMA 141, SMA-N 141, N-N 141

Dummy Receptacles and Protective Covers

Precision-Grade RF Connector Adapters

RF Pin Contacts for Multi-Cavity Receptacle Connectors sizes #8, #12, #16

TNC-SMA, N-SMA, SMA-SMA, SMP-SMA, 2.92-SMA, BNC-SMA

G-LinkRF: 26.5 GHz RF BMB-to-SMA contact adapters

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

Mil/Aero-Grade Flexible Coax Cables

Glenair GMMD Modular Micro-D

047, 086, 160, 200, 235, 300, 450

Micro Miniature Board and I/O-to-Board Hybrid Coax Connectors

Rugged, Shielded, Vibration- Resistant Mil-Aero Grade Multi-Cavity RF Connectors

RF Socket Contacts for Multi-Cavity Plug Connectors sizes #8, #12, #16

SuperNine, Mighty Mouse, Series 806 RF, and Series 795 RF I/O and Cable Connectors

G-LinkRF: 26.5 GHz RF BMB-to-SMA contact adapters

QwikConnect • January 2023

RF, Microwave, and mmWave GLENAIR

Glenair is a market leader in RF and Microwave interconnect innovations, Our signature contacts and connectors support a mix of standard and special interface types, and provides solutions for all stages in the transmission line. High-frequency RF interconnects from Glenair include a specialized range of high-frequency drop-in contacts for multipin I/O connectors, high-frequency and phase-stable coax cables, and Glenair signature G-Link RF adapters. We also have the ability to offer customers fully integrated and connectorized assemblies incorporating discrete RF connectors including SMAs, SMPs, BMBs, and others. INTEGRATED RF ASSEMBLIES BUILT FROM AEROSPACE-GRADE CONNECTORS, CONTACTS, ADAPTERS, AND COAX CABLE Coax CONTACTS SIZE #8 for Sr. 23 SuperNine/ Series 80 75 Ohm 4 GHz 75 Ohm 12 GHz 50 Ohm 26.5 GHz

Glenair manufactures an extensive range of high- frequency RF contacts for drop-in use in Glenair signature series connectors including Series 23 SuperNine, Series 80 Mighty Mouse, Series 806 RF, and the newly-released Series 795 high-density rectangular. The use of aerospace-grade sealed and shielded multiport connectors of this type is advantageous both as a mechanism to ruggedize the I/O interface as well as for size- and space-savings. All designs are optimized for packaging in Glenair signature series connectors and fall into three contact cavity sizes: #8, #12, and #16. These are 50 and 75 Ohm contacts in BMB, SMPM, and SMPS formats. Selected contacts utilize millimeter-wave spring-loaded architecture to achieve frequencies up to 65 GHz. All are designed for direct attachment of coaxial cables and snap-in insertion to multi-cavity connectors.

SIZE #8 for Series 795/ Series 806 RF SIZE #12 for SuperNine Series 795 Series 806 RF SIZE #16 for SuperNine Series 795 Series 806 RF

50 Ohm 6 GHz

50 Ohm 26.5 GHz

75 Ohm 4 GHz

50 Ohm 3 GHz

50 Ohm 40 GHz

75 Ohm 3 GHz

50 Ohm 4 GHz

50 Ohm 65 GHz

Glenair Signature multi-port connectors for RF applications

SERIES 806

MIL-AERO

Series 23

Series 806 RF

Series 795

GMMD

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

Signature 50 Ohm CABLE Glenair

Application and Use G-LinkRF is a unique contact technology with a BMB style mating interface, and a female SMA back-end interface. The design allows for easy termination of SMA cables to size #8 BMB mating interface contacts. The technology is, in other words, a BMB-to-SMA adapter that facilitates mating and routing of coaxial cables. 1. SuperNine receptacle connector with Size #8 contact cavities

26.5 GHz Hand Formable Tin-Soaked Braid .047 (1.2) Diameter

047

40 GHz FEP Jacket

40 GHz ETFE Jacket

086

Tape + Braid Shield .104 (2.6) Diameter

Tape + Braid Shield .097 (2.5) Diameter

2. Ready to accept the size #8 BMB G-Link RF contact with its threaded SMA back end.

40 GHz FEP Jacket Triple Shield .161 (4.1) Diameter

18 GHz FEP Jacket

Tape + Braid Shield .163 (4.1) Diameter

3. The G-LinkRF is simply snapped into place.

18 GHz ETFE Jacket

18 GHz ETFE Jacket Triple Shield .145 (3.7 Diameter

160

Tape + Braid Shield .163 (4.1) Diameter

Our capabilities are built around the delivery of custom point-to-point and multibranch assemblies, including rugged environmental I/O, cable and board designs with hybrid signal, power and RF. We specialize in high-availability, fast-turnaround solutions, with custom cable delivered in just 4 to 6 weeks from receipt of PO. Series 962 50 Ohm Coax Cables are available in seven size categories and frequencies. These high- frequency, low-loss cables are suitable for aerospace applications and test equipment. Jacket options include FEP and radiation-resistant space-grade ETFE. Triple-shielded high-performance cables have expanded PTFE dielectric core for low loss up to 40 GHz. Application selection is based on compatibility with a particular RF / microwave connector type and size, as well as flexibility, EMI screening, weight considerations, temperature tolerance, and altitude. The G-LinkRF contact is equipped with an integral release sleeve, and may be combined with 45° and 90° adapters for improved cable routing. The Size #8 50 Ohm 26.5 GHz BMB contact is rated to 1000 VAC RMS DWV, with VSWR of 1.5 max.

40 GHz Low Phase Change FEP Jacket .157 (4.0) Diameter

40 GHz Low Phase Change ETFE Jacket .157 (4.0) Diameter

26.5 GHz FEP Jacket Triple Shield .204 (5.2) Diameter

26.5 GHz ETFE Jacket Triple Shield .187 (4.7) Diameter

200

18 GHz FEP Jacket Triple Shield .235 (6.0) Diameter

18 GHz ETFE Jacket Triple Shield .205 (5.2) Diameter

235

300

450

10 GHz FEP Jacket Triple Shield .448 (6.0) Diameter

18 GHz FEP Jacket Triple Shield .310 (7.9) Diameter

QwikConnect • January 2023

RF ADAPTERS

Precision - grade Series 852 RF Adapters are used to connect between series or within a series. Frequently used as connector savers, male- female adapters protect RF jacks on instruments from excessive wear-and-tear. 45° and 90° angled SMA male-female adapters provide extra clearance in cramped quarters.

Series 795 RF Multiport rectangular

flexible, tight bend-radius performance. Back-to-back jumpers feature low-loss cable and are 100% tested and serialized. RF Jumper Assemblies are designed for 55°C to 165°C operating temperature environments with frequency ranges from DC to 26.5 GHz. Minimum bend radius for these turnkey assemblies is just 6 mm or about ¼ of an inch. Series 795 connectors accommodate up to nine size 8 BMB-style coax contacts. Contacts snap into the connector body and are removable. Connectors are environmentally protected with fluorosilicone face seals and rear grommets. The one-piece connector shell design provides a common ground plane and also eliminates EMI radiation through the connector. Panel mount receptacles have conductive fluorosilicone O-rings for ingress protection.

Temperature changes can cause phase shift in coax cables with PTFE dielectric cores. Low Phase Change Fluoropolymer (LPCF) cables replace the PTFE core with a fluoropolymer material yielding improved phase stability over a wide temperature range. While not particularly in the business of selling industry-standard single-line coax connectors, Glenair is able to supply a complete range of these board, cable, and panel TNC, SMA, N, SMP, BNC, SMPM and other RF connectors for use in integrated cable assemblies. The same range of single-line RF connectors may be supplied—again, principally for use in complex RF cable assemblies—as turnkey point-to-point jumpers. Glenair RF Jumper Assemblies are unjacketed tinned copper braid 50 ohm SMA jumpers that deliver ultra-

RF JUMPERS Series GRF02 50 Ohm Coax Cable Assemblies include SMA jumper cables with 086 or 141 flexible high frequency cable. Also included are N-to-SMA and N-N jumpers.

SMA • 086 CABLE

SMA - N • 141 CABLE

GRF02-001-086

GRF02-004-141

Turnkey series GRF02 50 point-to-point jumpers offer excellent flexibility with a bend radius of 6mm 1/4 in.

SMA • 141 CABLE

N–N • 141 CABLE

GRF02-001-141

GRF02-0010-141

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

SERIES 806

The Series 806 RF Mil- Aero is a ruggedized, shielded micro miniature circular optimized for use

connector styles of any Glenair RF circular. Available insert arrangements range from a single size #8 BMB in a shell size 11, to a shell size 25 with 29 size #16 SMPS contacts.

MIL-AERO

The Series GMMD is an innovative modular rectangular Micro-D connector for RF coax and high-speed differential datalink

in high-altitude and high vibration and shock aerospace applications. The RF series is available in an -072 plug, -073 square-flange, -079 in-line, and -080 jam nut receptacle. The -082 is a special RF hermetic A complete range of tooled inserts supports from one to six size #8, 1-8 size #12, and 1-12 size #16 high-frequency 50 and 75 Ohm contacts in

applications. It is one of the smallest ruggedized

multiport RF coax connectors available on the market today. The unique micro

Series 806 RF Micro miniature multi- port circular

Glenair Modular Micro-D (GMMD)

miniature design of the GMMD also accommodates standard analog signal and power contacts, making it extremely versatile. Coax versions are supplied in prewired pigtail plug and receptacle assemblies. Coax insert arrangements support up to 16 discrete lines of 50 Ohm coax. High-temperature RF solutions are required for certain applications to ensure ultra-high phase stability, ultra-low impedance loss, and optimal VSWR. Glenair offers stainless steel material solutions for high temperature tolerance to over 600°C with hermetic sealing options. And coming soon, Glenair will do a comprehensive review of the VITA specification RF backplane connectors, including 67.1, 67.2, and potentially signature hybrid versions incorporating RF, MT fiber optics, and high-speed signal in order to supply a complete end-to-end RF solution from I/O to backplane.

BMB, SMPM, and SMPS formats. G-LinkRF BMB- to-SMP adapters are also fully supported in this common ground plane connector series. For customers that prefer a mil-spec pedigree multi-pin RF solution, Glenair

offers our “better-than-QPL” SuperNine D38999 series connector. SuperNine has the advantage of being

supplied in the widest range of supported

Series 23 SuperNine Multi-port D38999 circular

Precision-Grade RF ADAPTERS

TNC-SMA adapters

N-SMA adapters

SMA-SMA adapters

SMP-SMA adapters

2.92-SMA adapters

QwikConnect • January 2023

QwikConnect Puzzle-Palooza

Which shape is opposite to in dice?

WHICH OF THESE TRUCKS ARE DRIVING?

Direction

A B

C D

Spell out the longest word possible using only the letters from the highlighted row of the keyboard

QwikConnect • January 2023

How many animals are partying with this elephant?

GLENAIR

end LU CKY

temperature

ECNALG

CHANCE

LEAST

p a y

793

725

317

849

891

uuu

White to move and win in one

1 2 1 2 3 3 4 4 Draw lines connecting 1 to 1, 2 to 2, 3 to 3, and 4 to 4. Lines must stay inside the rectangle, and may not cross each other.

Answers: www.glenair.com/qwikconnect

QwikConnect • January 2023

for Glenair APPLICATIONS

RF Assemblies

Glenair high-frequency RF technologies are typically used in line-replaceable units and chassis that are part of an RF data transmission chain. The rugged,

environmental construction of Glenair RF connectors and contacts, combined with our dimensionally stable RF cables, makes these elements ideally suited for mission-critical air, sea, land and space applications. Glenair is one of just a few interconnect manufacturers that can also supply turnkey RF cable assemblies – fully connectorized and ready for immediate use. Glenair RF interconnect solutions have proven performance – from sub-sea to outer space – in a wide range of high reliability application environments.

Examples include fighter- jet radar applications, RF/ microwave signal processing, as well as various forms of GPS navigation, jamming, and EW platforms in air-, sea- and land-based systems. Across-the-board, RF platforms designed for use in defense aviation require high levels of hermetic and/or barrier sealing in connectors and cables to prevent moisture absorption from afffecting data transmission performance.

DEFENSE

RF systems in commercial aerospace include radio communications, inertial navigation systems, global GPS navigation, air traffic control radar, collision-avoidance and other RF transmission chains crucial for the safe and efficient operation of aircraft. AEROSPACE 16 QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

Space Vehicles & Satellites

Subsea

Oil & Gas

Glenair RF assemblies for space applications include both laboratory and test equipment, as well as flight-grade systems for space vehicles and satellites. Glenair

RF connectors and cables are optimized for use in telemetry systems vital for the transmission of data and command controls between satellite and ground stations. Other applications include satellite navigation, altitude and orbit control, and interconnection of antenna arrays with transponders and other electronics. Coax cable jacket options for space include FEP and radiation-resistant space-grade ETFE.

The primary use of RF in the subsea oil and gas industry is for data transmission between subsea factory and underwater ROV sensors and instrument assets, and onshore and rig facilities for analysis and monitoring. This includes transmitting data sets such as pressure and temperature readings essential to the safe operation of the installation. RF communication is also used to transmit images and video from underwater cameras and other imaging systems.

Systems

RF technology is ubiquitous in land- based systems including cable and interconnect interfaces

to ground vehicle antennas, soldier communication

systems, hand-held and vehicle console radios, radar, and IED countermeasures.

QwikConnect • January 2023

FLIGHT-GRADE MULTI-PORT CIRCULAR COAX CONNECTOR IAW MIL-DTL-38999

“BETTER THAN QPL” High-altitude, mission-critical Coax connector series for RF, Microwave, and mmWave applications

Glenair Series 23 SuperNine connectors support one to twenty-nine high-frequency RF contacts. The “better than QPL” series features precision-machined aluminum or stainless steel shells and fluorosilicone grommets for excellent mating and environmental performance. Fifteen contact layouts, eight shell sizes, and support for #8 BMB, #12 SMPM, or #16 SMPS contacts. Glenair signature G-LinkRF contacts with fast RF cable termination reduce assembly time and skilled labor requirements. Series supports RF frequencies from DC–65 GHz.

Fifteen MIL-STD-1560 layouts for size #8, #12, or #16 RF contacts (sold separately) Rugged aluminum or stainless steel shells Environmentally-sealed and shielded for mission-critical application performance Scoop-proof mating interface EMI spring on plugs for low connector-to-connector resistance Snap-in, rear-release contacts Available extended-length backshells improve routing and protect coaxial cables

Save time and improve reliability. Series 23 SuperNine RF connectors are optimized for use with 26.5 GHz G-Link RF contacts with integral female SMA adapter for attaching SMA plug directly to the contact.

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

SuperNine RF Connector Selection Guide

233-290-G6 Plug, EMI Spring (Socket Contacts)

233-290-00 Wall-Mount Receptacle (Pin Contacts)

233-290-05 In-Line Receptacle (Pin Contacts)

233-290-07 Jam Nut Receptacle (Pin Contacts)

233-290-CS Wall Mount Receptacle, Standard Clinch Nuts (Pin Contacts)

233-290-CM Wall Mount Receptacle, Metric Clinch Nuts (Pin Contacts)

233-290-HS Wall Mount Receptacle, Standard Helicoils (Pin Contacts)

233-290-HM Wall Mount Receptacle, Metric Helicoils (Pin Contacts)

SHELL SIZE / CONTACT LAYOUT

11RF1

11RF2

13RF4

15RF5

17RF6

17RF8

19RF11

Shell Sz. 11 • 2 #16 contacts Shell Sz. 13 • 4 #16 contacts Shell Sz. 15 • 5 #16 contacts Shell Sz. 17 • 6 #12 contacts Shell Sz. 17 • 8 #16 contacts Shell Sz. 19 • 11 #16 contacts

Shell Sz. 11 • 1 #8 contact

21RF11

21RF16

23RF21

23RF97

23RF99

Shell Size 21 • 11 #12 contacts

Shell Size 21 • 16 #16 contacts

Shell Size 21 • 21 #16 contacts

Shell Size 23 • 16 #16 contacts

Shell Size 23 • 11 #16 contacts

25RF8

25RF19

25RF29

Shell Size 25 • 8 #8 contacts

Shell Size 25 • 19 #12 contacts

Shell Size 25 • 29 #16 contacts

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FLIGHT HERITAGE MICRO MINIATURE RF CIRCULAR WITH MISSION-CRITICAL PERFORMANCE

OPTIMIZED SWaP Reduced size and weight micro miniature circular series for RF, Microwave, and mmWave applications

SERIES 806

MIL-AERO

Series 806 RF connectors are micro miniature circulars with true MIL-DTL-38999 Series III-level performance including high altitude immersion, DWV, and shock and vibe resistance. Precision-machined aluminum or stainless steel shells, fluorosilicone grommets, and auxiliary shielding delivers space-grade environmental, mechanical, and electrical performance. Eighteen contact layouts, eleven shell sizes, with support for #8 BMB, #12 SMPM, or #16 SMPS contacts. RF frequency from DC–65 GHz. G-LinkRF contacts save time and reduce labor.

Mil-spec performance, micro miniature package Space-grade TRL of 9 Eighteen layouts for size #8, #12, or #16 RF contacts (sold separately) Rugged aluminum or stainless steel shells Environmentally-sealed Scoop-proof mating interface EMI spring on plugs for low shell-to-shell resistance Snap-in, rear-release contacts Hermetic versions and extended backshells available

Save time and improve reliability. Series 806 RF connectors are optimized for use with 26.5 GHz G-Link RF contacts with integral female SMA adapter for attaching SMA plug directly to the contact.

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

Series 806 RF Connector Selection Guide

806-072 Cable Plug (Socket Contacts)

806-073 Wall-Mount Receptacle (Pin Contacts)

806-079 In-Line Receptacle (Pin Contacts)

806-080 Jam Nut Receptacle (Pin Contacts)

806-083-02 Hermetic Bulkhead Feedthru, Panel Mount

806-083-07 Hermetic Bulkhead Feedthru, Jam Nut Mount

806-083-13 Hermetic Bulkhead Feedthru, Weld Mount

Series 806 Size 8 RF Contact Arrangements

Mating face of pin connector. Socket numbering is reversed. Symbol indicates master key location.

10R1

16R2

18R3

20R4

22R5

24R8

Arrangement No.

Series 806 Size 12 RF Contact Arrangements

Mating face of pin connector. Socket numbering is reversed.

Symbol

indicates master key location.

9R1

12R2

14R3

16R4

16R7

18R8

Arrangement No.

Series 806 Size 16 RF Contact Arrangements

Mating face of pin connector. Socket numbering is reversed.

A B

4 3

Symbol indicates master key location.

8R1

10R2

11R4

12R5

14R7

16R12

Arrangement No.

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FLIGHT-GRADE MULTI-PORT HIGH-FREQUENCY RECTANGULAR COAX CONNECTOR

HIGH-DENSITY Precision-machined, scoop- proof aerospace-grade Coax connector for RF, Microwave, and mmWave applications

The Glenair Series 795 is a multiport aerospace-grade coax connector designed for use with snap-in and removable size #8, #12, and #16 coax contacts from DC to 65 GHz frequency. Environmentally protected and EMI shielded for harsh application environments. Series 795 high-density multiport connectors are designed for use with Glenair BMB-style and other high-frequency coax contacts. These contacts accept high performance low-loss flexible cable, also supplied by Glenair.

Size #8, #12, and #16 coax contact arrangements Single and double row high- density configurations Scoop-proof design with dual-lobe polarization for reliable mate and demate Precision-machined aluminum alloy shell with common ground plane Environmentally-protected with fluorosilicone face seal and rear grommet Shielded for EMI protection Available extended-length backshells

Series 795 connectors are optimized for use with 26.5 GHz G-Link RF contacts with integral female SMA adapter for attaching SMA plug directly to the contact.

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR

Series 795 RF Connector Selection Guide

Cable Plugs, Socket Contacts

Cable Receptacles, Pin Contacts

Panel Mount Plugs, Socket Contacts

Panel Mount Receptacles, Pin Contacts

795-001S (#8 BMB Contacts)

795-002P (#8 BMB Contacts)

795-003S (#8 BMB Contacts)

795-004P (#8 BMB Contacts)

795-005S (#12 SMPM Contacts)

795-006P (#12 SMPM Contacts)

795-007S (#12 SMPM Contacts)

795-008P (#12 SMPM Contacts)

795-009S (#16 SMPS Contacts)

795-010P (#16 SMPS Contacts)

795-011S (#16 SMPS Contacts)

795-012P (#16 SMPS Contacts)

INSERT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SIZE #8 BMB TYPE RF CONTACTS

1-2

1-3

1-4

1-5

2-5

2-7

2-9

1 row, 2 contacts

1 row, 3 contacts 1 row, 4 contacts

1 row, 5 contacts

2 row, 5 contacts 2 row, 7 contacts

2 row, 9 contacts

INSERT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SIZE #12 SMPM TYPE RF CONTACTS

A11

1-3

1-5

1-6

2-5

2-7

2-9

2-11

1 row, 3 contacts

2 row, 5 contacts

1 row, 5 contacts

1 row, 6 contacts

2 row, 7 contacts

2 row, 8 contacts

2 row, 11 contacts

INSERT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SIZE #16 SMPS TYPE RF CONTACTS

A13

A17

1-2

1-3

1-5

1-7

1-9

2-5

2-9

2-13

2-17

1 row, 2 contacts

1 row, 3 contacts

1 row, 5 contacts

2 row, 5 contacts

2 row, 9 contacts

1 row, 7 contacts

1 row, 9 contacts

2 row, 13 contacts

2 row, 17 contacts

QwikConnect • January 2023

GLENAIR MODULAR HIGH-SPEED, HIGH-FREQUENCY RF MICRO-D CONNECTOR

Modular Micro-D differential twinax / RF coax solution. Combo design accommodates both high-speed digital and high-frequency RF signals

The Series GMMD is an innovative modular Micro-D connector for RF coax and high-speed differential datalink applications. It is one of the smallest ruggedized multiport RF coax connectors available on the market today. The unique micro miniature design of the GMMD also accommodates standard analog signal and power contacts, making it extremely versatile. Coax versions are supplied in prewired pigtail plug and receptacle assemblies. Coax insert arrangements support up to 16 discrete lines of 50 Ohm coax. Edge-mount PCB versions support launching

Modular mixed signal RF / low speed solutions Micro miniature form- factor for optimized SWaP Shell packaging and contact technology IAW MIL-DTL-83513 Pigtails, back-to-back cables, and surface- mount SMT PCB versions 50Ω on 3.18mm pitch for combo arrangements 50Ω on 2.54 pitch for coax-only arrangements Shield isolated from connector shell PCB edge-launched for optimized 20GHz high- bandwidth performance

up to 20 GHz frequency signals from the board, and are compatible with RG-178 Coax, flexible and semi rigid 047, RG- 179 and semi rigid 75 Ω cables

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Horizontal PCB-Mount Coax and Combo Coax Receptacles

PCB edge-launched versions of Series GMMD connectors are optimized for 20 GHz high- bandwidth performance. The micro miniature form-factor interconnects are supplied in 50 Ohm versions on 3.18mm pitch for combo arrangements, and 2.54mm pitch for coax-only arrangements. Shielded element is isolated from connector shell. Mating interface Compatible with RG-178, semi-rigid and flexible 047 cables for 50Ω / RG-179 and semi-rigid cables for 75Ω

-HRE Horizontal edge-launched receptacle - HRPE Horizontal panel-sealed edge launched receptacle

Coax and Combo Coax Jumpers and Pigtails

Factory-terminated back-to-back and single-ended GMMD Coax cable assemblies provide a turnkey solution for easy on-site installation. Assemblies are supplied with GMMD plug or receptacle as required with a choice of any coax or combo contact arrangement. Environmental seal options are available for plug connectors. 50Ω and 75Ω Coax cable may be ordered in flexible or semi-rigid configurations as follows:

-C = 50 Ω RG178 -D = 50 Ω 047 Semi-Rigid -E = 50 Ω 047 Flexible

-V = 75Ω RG179 -W = 75Ω Semi-Rigid

-FP Cable plug connectors -FPE Cable plug environmental connectors -FR Cable receptacle connectors -FRP Rear panel-mount cable receptacle connectors

Integral backshells, hardware, and wire exit direction all supplied as standard catalog configurations.

COAX AND COMBO COAX CABLE ASSEMBLY CONNECTOR SELECTION GUIDE

GMMD-FP Cable Plug

GMMD-FPE Cable Plug, Environmental

GMMD-FR Cable Receptacle

GMMD-FRP Rear Panel Mount Cable Receptacle

GMMD COAX AND COMBO COAX CONTACT ARRANGEMENTS (additional arrangements are available, consult factory)

Contact Arrangement

Shell Size

No. / type of contacts

2 X 50Ω Coax

4X 50Ω Coax

6X 50Ω Coax

Contact Arrangement

16C

Shell Size

No. / type of contacts

8 X 50Ω Coax

16X 50Ω Coax

Contact Arrangement

2C9

1V9

2V9

Shell Size

2X 50Ω Coax, 9 X #24

1 X 75Ω Coax, 9 X #24

2 X 75Ω Coax, 9 X #24

No. / type of contacts

4 X 75Ω Coax

QwikConnect • January 2023

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