Ultra Microminiature
Among the smallest available 6 GHz RF connectors, MCRF and SSMCX ultra microminiature RF coaxial connectors deliver high-frequency performance up to 6 GHz, making them ideal for compact and space-constrained applications. These connectors provide reliable connectivity and high-precision performance for compact devices.
Microminiature
Microminiature RF connectors provide compact and ultrahigh-frequency solutions for devices subject to moderate size constraints. Precision-engineered MMCX, MCX, SMP and SMPM connectors support frequencies up to 65 GHz, depending on the connector type, while rugged SMP-MAX connectors provide durable performance up to 6 GHz for harsh-duty applications.
Subminiature
Engineered for small form factors and high-frequency, high-precision performance up to 26.5 GHz, subminiature RF connectors deliver reliable and compact solutions for a wide range of applications. The versatile subminiature portfolio includes automotive-grade FAKRA, rugged DIN 1.0/2.3 and versatile SMA connectors.
Precision
Precision microminiature RF connectors deliver ultra-high-frequency performance from 40 to 110 GHz, supporting stable and accurate signal transmission in demanding applications. The portfolio includes high-accuracy 1.0, 1.85, 2.4 and 2.92mm connectors along with precision SMA connectors.
Miniature
Designed for diverse applications, standard miniature RF connectors such as 2.2-5, BNC and TNC types deliver robust signal integrity and reliable performance for frequencies from 4 to 11 GHz.
Medium
Combining compact size, high performance and exceptional durability, medium-sized RF solutions such as 4.3-10 and Type N connectors provide reliable operation at frequencies up to 12 GHz, making them ideal for demanding or harsh-duty applications.
Large
Robust and reliable DIN 7/16 high-power RF connectors are engineered for durability and stability in rugged environments and power-intensive applications up to 8.3 GHz.
Features and Benefits
RF engineers need to balance size, performance and integration requirements when selecting connectors. Electrical characteristics such as impedance, voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) requirements, frequency and power-handling capability must be matched to maintain optimal signal integrity. Minimizing passive intermodulation (PIM), insertion loss and reflection also is crucial to maintaining signal integrity. RF connectors used in demanding aerospace, defense, telecommunications or industrial applications may also require robust, sealed construction to withstand harsh conditions.
Offering a broad portfolio of solutions, Molex RF connectors are designed to meet a wide range of frequency, impedance, VSWR and power-handling needs. Precision engineering minimizes signal loss, reflections and PIM, enabling clean signal transmission at high frequencies and in high-precision applications. A large selection of interfaces and connector types simplifies integration and enables backward-compatible solutions that accelerate development cycles, minimize redesign time and support miniaturization. Robust and durable low-loss RF connectors, including rugged, sealed and miniature RF connector options with IP67 ratings, maintain high performance and reduce maintenance needs in demanding environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an RF connector?
An RF (radio frequency) connector is a specialized electrical connector designed to carry high-frequency signals between cables, PCBs or devices such as antennas and test equipment. These connectors must maintain signal integrity by minimizing reflection, insertion loss and impedance mismatches. RF connectors from Molex are engineered to support a wide range of applications with various frequency ranges, impedance and power-handling needs, and environmental requirements, ensuring reliable and high-performance connectivity.
How can Molex help ensure signal integrity in high-frequency applications like 5G or millimeter-wave (mmWave) designs?
Minimizing voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) and insertion loss is critical at microwave and mmWave frequencies. Molex provides microwave RF connectors designed to meet tight impedance and power-handling tolerances, helping optimize signal integrity for precision high-frequency applications.
How does Molex support RF connector solutions for harsh or space-constrained environments?
The Molex RF connector portfolio includes rugged, environmentally sealed and miniature RF connector options designed to withstand shock, vibration and moisture, and to fit within limited space. Backward-compatible connectors with robust mechanical designs help ensure reliable operation and reduce failure rates in challenging industrial, aerospace and defense applications while minimizing costly redesign work.
What custom RF connectivity options does Molex offer if standard connectors don’t meet unique design needs?
Molex employs deep expertise in custom RF connectivity, together with a collaborative and customer-centric focus, to develop tailored solutions for unique challenges. Capabilities such as custom impedance, specialized finishes or unusual packaging designs help overcome challenges that off-the-shelf connectors cannot solve—accelerating time to market, simplifying assembly and enhancing performance.