How do devices remain connected in congested and demanding environments? The answer lies in next-generation RF connectors, engineered with a self-aligning design, a heavy-duty build, and a space-saving structure that guarantees solid signals. Across 5G, IoT, aerospace, and defence, they make assembly easier and keep even the tiniest devices communicating perfectly.
Have you ever considered the small but vital components of our wireless world? RF connectors, small and unsung as they may be, are critical connections between transmission lines and electronic circuits. Their careful design allows for smooth, consistent data transfer that powers everything from smartphone and satellite to aerospace and defence applications.
Along with advancing wireless technology, RF connectors themselves are advancing. Not only do they have to efficiently transfer signals these days, but they also have to plug into ever-more cramped PCBs without sacrificing performance. Tiny connectors such as U.FL and MMCX are essential for small devices, while heavier-duty designs such as SMA and N-Type ensure signal integrity at high frequencies. Modern connectors focus on reducing signal loss, improving impedance matching, and carrying signals in the millimetre-wave range.
“For RF connectors, the main benefit to engineers, especially in PCB design, is having ready-to-use, standardised connectors. These connectors meet industry standards and compliance requirements, saving engineers time and ensuring reliable signal performance,” Subhendu S Satpathy, CEO of Mokkomotto, explained.
Looking ahead, next-generation RF connectors are designed for the future, capable of supporting 5G networks, IoT, connected vehicles, and beyond. With rugged housings, moisture sealing, and vibration resistance, they are designed to provide reliable performance even in the most harsh of environments. From simple mechanical devices, RF connectors have evolved into critical building blocks that enable high-speed, reliable communication that works quietly behind our connected world every day.
Ultra-compact connectors for dense PCBs
As electronics become smaller and smarter, connectors must evolve in tandem. Today’s designs handle higher frequencies, preserve signal integrity, and maintain reliable performance even in confined environments. Thoughtful signal-routing design and high-quality materials help ensure consistent performance, even in the presence of strong electromagnetic or radio frequency interference.
Miniature connectors also provide new design freedom. They allow more functionality to be built into small form factors, making innovation in wearables, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and aerospace systems feasible. With high-density PCB integration, these connectors enable breakthroughs once out of reach, including high-performance smartwatches and modular, weight-saving transportation systems.
Take TE Connectivity’s 343-CSJ-SGFB-100-MHF4-ND, for example. This coaxial RF cable assembly connects device interfaces to external connections while being smaller than the older MHF3 standard. Its MHF4 plug-to-SMA bulkhead jack design keeps signals reliable in tight spaces. With precise length tolerances and gold-plated brass contacts, it ensures signal transfer and panel mounting. For users, this means less troubleshooting, fewer design changes, and easier integration, especially in devices where space and performance matter.
When PCB space is limited, right-angle or snap-on connectors make integration faster and easier. The 732-14185-ND from Wurth Elektronik is an MMCX component and a micro-miniature version of the MCX series. This particular model is 30% smaller than the standard MCX and rated for 500 mating cycles. It features a PTFE dielectric with gold-plated brass and beryllium copper contacts. The snap-on design allows repeated mating without wear, making it ideal for high-density RF modules or industrial wireless equipment. Its compact size helps engineers fit more functions onto smaller boards while allowing easy assembly and long-term reliability.
Straight connectors like the SAM8944-N D from Samtec Inc. are smaller than SMB connectors and support up to 6GHz (50Ω). They are more compact than traditional connectors yet maintain mechanical and electrical performance. Users benefit from easy PCB integration, repeated connection capability, and seamless operation across varied conditions. For high-frequency, compact, and communication modules in IoT devices, they deliver dependable high-frequency performance without compromising reliability.
For applications involving high frequencies such as millimetre-wave circuits, signal stability and integrity are crucial. The 612-SMPM-PF-P-EG-ST-SM-1-ND from Samtec Inc. is a version of SMP connectors that is 30% smaller than the standard SMP series and tolerates minor misalignments, making it suitable for dense PCBs. Its brass body, beryllium copper contacts, and VICTREX polymer dielectric offer consistent dimensions, controlled impedance, and reduced signal loss. Engineers get connectors that handle repeated use, maintain performance, and allow some alignment errors.
When vibration resistance and low passive intermodulation (PIM) are needed, the Amphenol RF 115-225-100J-52S-ND provides a 53% smaller footprint and supports dense PCB layouts. Its blind-mating design, threaded coupling, and silver-plated contacts ensure stable signal performance. It is suitable for space-limited IoT and 5G devices and works effectively with semi-rigid or flexible cables.
Speaking about how the shift to 5G and high-frequency electronics is affecting connector designs, Madhukar Tripathi, Associate Director – Business Development & Marketing at Anritsu India Pvt Ltd, said, “Historically used in military and aerospace, high-frequency connectors now face 5G’s demands. They require tight tolerances, low insertion loss, minimal return loss, compact layouts, and advanced materials to reduce crosstalk and interference.”
High-frequency and 5G-ready
Advances in materials, shielding, and precision engineering are helping RF connectors handle higher frequencies and more complex transmission needs. Standards and testing rules ensure connectors can work with 6G, while maintaining proper geometry, transmission, and impedance. The performance of a connector is determined by some combination of electrical, mechanical, and environmental factors.
The RF connector market is expanding with a high growth rate due to the increase in 5G and IoT applications. Supporting these technologies is more complex and expensive, which underscores the necessity of high-frequency, low-loss connections in modern communication systems. “The large-scale rollout of 5G worldwide has fuelled the need for RF connectors. It has also accelerated IoT adoption, further driving demand,” Madhukar noted.
For example, the Molex 900-2153600064DKR-ND features a 0.35mm pitch, capable of handling signals up to 15GHz. A centre shield and fitting nails improve signal integrity. Packaged for automated assembly and compatible with reflow soldering, it is a compact solution for wireless systems.
Similarly, Amphenol ARF2552-ND SMPM bullet adapter supports frequencies of up to 40GHz, with reduced reflections and high-quality signals. With its straight-through female-female SMPM design, it provides dependable connections. The gold-plated beryllium copper construction offers superior conductivity and corrosion resistance. It is constructed to function in a wide range of temperatures and offers compact and stable RF interconnections.
PCB routing in tight layouts can be challenging and impact connection stability. The Amphenol SV Microwave 1678-2922-61044-ND supports frequencies up to 18 GHz and addresses these issues. It features a 30° angled SMA jack, making PCB routing easier. Threaded coupling keeps connections secure. Compression termination provides solder-free installation. With stainless steel build, gold-plated contacts, and a PTFE dielectric, they provide reliable performance in the fields of telecommunications, aerospace, and defence.
“The move to 5G and high frequency is driving the need for miniaturisation and higher frequency handling,” Dileep Jain, CEO, Rajguru Electronics, added.
Environmental-resistant and rugged Connectors
RF connectors used in industrial, outdoor, or military environments are subjected to harsh conditions that can affect their operation.They can be protected using housings for safe mating, overmolding for cable protection, armoured cables, and dust caps, seals, or grommets for dirt and water protection.
Connectors are constructed using hard materials such as stainless steel and brass to endure heat, vibration, and harsh weather conditions. Their constructions shield against corrosion, short circuits, and water damage. The choice of picking the right connector requires knowledge of the type of conditions it will be exposed to in order to remain functional. Connectors such as the Amphenol RF ARF3524-ND provide vibration resistance, and a pre-assembled gasket to prevent dust and moisture penetration. Its design, mating interface provide connectivity, insertion loss, and controlled impedance. It is easy to install and works in high-frequency circuits where the signal matters.
The Amphenol RF 115-225-100J-52S-ND product discussed above also withstands temperatures ranging from -65°C to +165°C and supports over 100 mating cycles. Having low intermodulation distortion and compatibility with a variety of cables it allows engineers to design efficient, high-performance systems.
Simplified installation and design choice
Modern RF systems face challenges like complex installation, assembly errors, limited space, and the need to maintain signal quality in compact designs. The Samtec SAM9951-ND connector addresses these issues with a snap-on connection, enabling tool-free, high-speed connections.
For high-frequency applications, the connector offers secure PCB mounting and low-loss signal paths in its right-angle, through-hole design. Conductivity is enhanced and corrosion is eliminated by gold and nickel plating, and signal reflection is minimised with standardised impedance. Its form factor allows efficient use of PCB space. By addressing installation, adaptability, and signal integrity challenges, this connector enables engineers to achieve reliable designs with fewer errors and enhanced long-term durability.
Similarly, blind mate connectors create connections through sliding, snapping, or guide pins without the need for tools. They have various features, including self-aligning ones that adjust for misalignment and lead the connector into position, minimising damage and mistakes over rigid couplings. They are suitable for locations where direct view or exact alignment is not practical, making them ideal for confined or hard-to-access applications in aerospace, defence, and communications systems. Frequency range, ruggedness, and available space need to be taken into account while selecting them, as they improve efficiency and system performance.
Connectors play a vital role in ensuring the continuity of systems and devices’ operation, in today’s wireless world. Snap-on miniatures, blind-mate connectors, and rugged high-frequency RF connectors address specific challenges, such as space constraints, improper installation, signal loss, and corrosive environments. With increased flexibility, reliability, and cautious handling of the signal, modern connectors enable engineers to create compact, high-performing devices for 5G, IoT, aerospace, and defence. As wireless technologies grow more sophisticated, these connectors do too, assuring robust, efficient, and effective communication.
This table lists popular RF connectors, their key specifications and direct links for more details, along with the brands associated with each. It highlights connectors designed for high-density PCBs, robust signal integrity, and easy installation, helping engineers quickly compare options for modern wireless and RF applications.
| S. No. | Digikey Part Number | Specs | Brand | Image | Direct Links |
| 1 | 343-CSJ-SGFB-100-MHF4-ND | SMA to I-PEX MHF4, 0.81mm OD, 100mm long | TE Connectivity | | click here |
| 2 | 732-14185-ND | Female, right-angle, 50Ω, through-hole | Wurth Elektronik | | click here |
| 3 | SAM8944-N D | MCX connector jack, female socket 50Ω, through-hole | Samtec Inc. | | click here |
| 4 | 612-SMPM-PF-P-EG-ST-SM-1-ND | SMPM connector plug, male pin, 50Ω, surface mount | Samtec Inc. | | click here |
| 5 | 115-225-100J-52S-ND | 2.2/5 connector jack, female socket 50Ω, panel mount | Amphenol RF | | click here |
| 6 | 900-2153600064DKR-ND | 6-position connector receptacle | Molex | | click here |
| 7 | ARF2552-ND | Adaptor coaxial connector SMPM jack | Amphenol RF | | click here |
| 8 | 1678-2922-61044-ND | SMA connector receptacle, surface mount compression | Amphenol SV Microwave | | click here |
| 9 | ARF3524-ND | Adaptor coaxial connector 7/16 plug | Amphenol RF | | click here |
| 10 | SAM9951-ND | SMB connector jack, through hole, right-angle solder | Samtec Inc. | | click here |
