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Molex SMPM Connectors

SMPM Connectors

Engineered to combine a miniaturized form factor with robust construction and a broad frequency range, subminiature push-on micro SMPM Connectors are ideal for harsh environments where exceptional reliability and precise performance are crucial. SMPM Connectors support frequencies up to 65 GHz in a 4.00 by 4.00mm board footprint and enable tool-free blind-mate assembly that reduces deployment times and minimizes assembly errors.

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Frequency Board Footprint Configurations Industry Standards
DC to 65 GHz 4.00 by 4.00mm Full-detent or smooth-bore surface mount SMPM, MIL-STD-348, VITA 67.1/67.2

SMPM Connectors

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Molex SMPM smooth-bore RF plug connector.

Features and Benefits

Shrinking form factors and growing bandwidth requirements in industries subject to harsh conditions require RF connectors that combine a small size, rugged construction and high-frequency capability. Manufacturers also need connectors that use standard form factors, supporting interoperability to reduce supply chain risk and comply with industry standards such as MIL-STD-348.

Microminiature, high-frequency RF connectors enable higher component density and increase capabilities in next-generation devices. Using standardized form factors and designs that comply with established standards helps ensure robust supply chains and meets industry requirements for interoperability. Features like blind-mate capability and misalignment tolerance accelerate assembly and minimize failures.

High-frequency, blind-mating SMPM Connectors from Molex use an industry-standard interface with a 4.00 by 4.00mm footprint to deliver precision performance in a miniaturized format. Supporting frequencies up to 65 GHz, with low insertion loss and exceptional signal integrity, rugged SMPM Connectors also deliver dependable performance for applications subject to demanding conditions. Blind-mate capability, tool-free push-on assembly and misalignment tolerance help streamline assembly and maintenance while reducing installation errors.

High-Frequency, Compact and Rugged RF Performance

The miniaturized footprint, broad frequency range and durable construction enable use with a variety of devices. SMPM Connectors meet MIL-STD-348 and VITA 67.1/67.2 specifications and intermate with other SMPM designs, reducing validation and supply chain risks while accelerating timelines and ensuring consistent performance in extreme conditions.

Molex SMPM smooth-bore RF plug connector.

Wide Frequency Range up to 65 GHz

SMPM connectors offer high-precision signal integrity at millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies up to 65 GHz, supporting next-generation, harsh-environment applications that require exceptional reliability.

Molex SMPM straight crimp jack for RF connectors.

Compact 4.00mm Footprint with Blind-Mate Capability

The 4.00 by 4.00mm PCB footprint is 30% smaller than SMP connectors, improving design density and layout flexibility. Tool-free blind-mate capability with misalignment correction and an audible/tactile “click” accelerates assembly work and reduces mis-mating risks in tight assemblies.

Molex SMPM two-port panel-mount RF plug connector.

Minimizes volume and weight for complex systems
The microminiature 4.00 by 4.00mm footprint is 30% smaller than SMP connectors, which combines with a 4.30mm pitch and 7.88mm board-to-board separation to support higher channel density, smaller modules and fewer PCB design constraints.

Reduces signal degradation and performance variations
Low insertion loss (typically <0.213 dB up to 40 GHz) and controlled VSWR of 1.10 to 1.35:1, or 1.45:1 maximum, preserve signal integrity and increase the link margin, enhancing performance and reliability at high data rates.

Future-proofs RF subsystems
The wide DC to 65 GHz frequency range enables use with broadband and mmWave designs, simplifying upgrades and permitting use with wide-frequency applications such as test-and-measurement systems.

Reduces routing complexity
Two- and four-port PCB receptacles and three-piece board-to-board designs enable designers to reduce the number of discrete connectors, simplify assembly and inspection, and minimize routing/tolerance stack-up.

Streamlines sourcing and validation
MIL-STD-348 and VITA 67.1/67.2 compliance and intermateability with other SMPM vendors enable multi-vendor sourcing and simplify re-qualification.

Mitigates assembly errors
A blind-mate female interface with 0.25mm radial/axial alignment tolerance and push-on/snap-on coupling with an audible and tactile click enables reliable field assembly, fast mating without tools, a reduced risk of contact damage and improved operational reliability.

Minimizes total cost of ownership by enhancing long-term reliability
Durable, corrosion-resistant materials and plating options, together with rugged mechanical and environmental specifications, support ultra-reliable performance and a predictable product lifespan in harsh conditions subject to shock, vibrations and extreme temperatures.

Datasheets and Guides

Applications by Industry

Global positioning system satellites
Radar and antenna subsystems
Satellite communications equipment
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
VPX assemblies

Military radios
Rack-level interconnects
Radar systems
Rugged VPX connections
Signal-jamming equipment

High-frequency diagnostic equipment
High-frequency test instruments

High-frequency diagnostic subsystems
Medical equipment

Front-end RF modules
Miniaturized RF subsystems
Module-to-module connections

High-speed data communications modules
Networking equipment
Transceiver interfaces

High-density board-to-board RF interconnects
Modular rack electronics

4G/5G base stations
Antenna feeds
Broadband antenna systems
Satellite communications ground terminals

Antenna feeds
Mobile towers
Remote radio heads

This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are SMPM Connectors?

SMPM (subminiature push-on micro) connectors are compact, high-performance RF connectors that use a push-on/snap-on coupling with an audible and tactile click to ensure reliable connection. These connectors deliver superior performance at frequencies up to 65 GHz and are approximately 30% smaller than SMP connectors. Configurations include PCB-mount, cable-mount and in-series adapters that enhance port density in board-to-board, blind-mate and rack-and-panel designs.

Why choose SMPM Connectors over other standard interfaces?

SMPM Connectors are robust, space-efficient 50-Ohm RF interconnects designed to meet or exceed MIL‑STD‑348 interface requirements. These connectors are well suited for high‑priority systems and compact designs where high-frequency performance and density are required.

What is the difference between SMPM and other mini‑SMP connectors?

Some manufacturers offer interfaces with various brand or series names that are intended to be SMPM compatible. They may be dimensionally compatible, but conformance claims and performance can vary by supplier. Molex designs to MIL‑STD‑348 SMPM interface requirements to support interoperability with other compliant products.

What frequency range can SMPM Connectors support?

SMPM Connectors are designed for operation from DC to 65 GHz, making them suitable for high‑frequency RF and microwave applications where maintaining controlled impedance and low reflection is crucial.

What are typical VSWR and insertion loss specifications for SMPM Connectors?

Performance depends on the exact connector, launch and mated pair, but Molex SMPM Connectors are designed for low loss and low reflection at high frequencies. As a general reference, Molex SMPM Connectors are rated for VSWR of 1.45:1 (max.) up to 40 GHz.

How does the SMPM Connector support reliable performance in harsh environments?

SMPM Connectors are built for mechanically demanding applications, providing robust coupling, corrosion-resistant plated interfaces and designs intended to maintain electrical stability under shock, vibration and wide temperature ranges (product dependent). This is why they are commonly selected for aerospace/defense-style environments.

What PCB launch options are available for SMPM Connectors?

SMPM solutions are available with multiple PCB interface styles (product dependent), including surface-mount, through-hole, edge-mount and right-angle/vertical PCB receptacles. Use the recommended footprint and layout guidance to maintain impedance control and minimize discontinuities at the launch.

Can SMPM Connectors be used for automated assembly?

Yes, many SMPM PCB-mount options are designed to be compatible with pick-and-place and standard soldering processes, supporting improved assembly repeatability and throughput (exact capability depends on the specific part number and packaging).

How does Molex ensure compatibility with SMPM Connectors from other manufacturers?

Molex adheres to MIL‑STD‑348 interface dimensions for SMPM Connectors, supporting dimensional compatibility with other manufacturers that also follow the same standard—helpful for multi-vendor sourcing and system integration.