Skip to main content
Molex SMPS board-to-board and cable-to-board RF connectors.

SMPS Connectors

Providing rugged and future-proof connectivity in next-generation high-reliability electronics, 5G/6G, and test-and-measurement applications, high-frequency Subminiature Push-On Sub-Micro (SMPS) Connectors deliver precision performance up to 65 GHz in a microminiature 2.65mm footprint. Blind-mate push-on coupling, versatile options and compliance with industry standards help streamline integration, accelerate assembly and improve reliability.

Contact Us
Frequency VSWR Configurations Dielectric Withstanding Voltage
DC to 65 GHz 1.1:1 at DC to 10 GHz
1.18:1 at DC to 26.5 GHz
1.25:1 at 26.5 to 40 GHz
1.376:1 at 40 to 65 GHz		 Full-detent or
smooth-bore surface mount		 250V AC (RMS)

Features and Benefits

Advanced applications such as quantum computing, satellite communications, ruggedized embedded RF systems (e.g., VITA 67.3-aligned architectures), 5G/6G networking, and test-and-measurement systems increasingly require high frequencies well beyond 40 GHz. Manufacturers need connectivity solutions that support these systems while minimizing PCB space usage.

Standardized, compact and high-performance coaxial connectors deliver exceptional high-frequency performance in a tiny package while meeting industry standards for durability and reliability. Features such as board-to-board blind-mate capability and misalignment tolerance help make assembly faster and more accurate, improving manufacturing efficiency, while versatile configuration options can enhance design flexibility and streamline system integration.

SMPS Connectors from Molex provide exceptional performance up to 65 GHz, with low voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) and insertion loss even in challenging conditions. The 2.65 by 2.65mm footprint is 30% smaller than subminiature push-on micro (SMPM) connectors, allowing higher-density boards without sacrificing signal integrity. Durable construction meets VITA 67.3 industry standards for interoperability and reliability in demanding advanced communications infrastructure applications. Versatile PCB-mounting and bullet-size options, along with blind-mate capability, help simplify and accelerate design work.

Operates from DC to 65 GHz with Low VSWR

Compact SMPS Connectors provide reliable performance at up to 65 GHz, supporting microwave, millimeter wave (mmWave) and ultra-wideband systems. Low VSWR and insertion loss ensure consistent signal integrity for precision 5G/6G and test-and-measurement applications.

Molex SMPS cable-to-board connector.

Compact 2.65mm Design with Blind-Mate Capability

The SMPS design delivers high-frequency performance in a microminiature form factor, with a 2.65 by 2.65mm footprint that is 30% smaller than SMPM connectors. SMPS Connectors also offer blind-mate capability with audible and tactile mating feedback that accelerates manufacturing processes and minimizes assembly errors.

Molex SMPS board-to-board connector.

Multi-Port, Ruggedized Options

Support for multi-port configurations, including two- and four-port PCB receptacles, helps accommodate complex routing needs. These robust connectors meet standards such as VITA 67.3 for multi-port RF data transmission in VPX systems, ensuring interoperability for applications that are subject to harsh environments.

Bullet insert for a Molex SMPS Connector.

Reduces PCB space usage
The microminiature SMPS Connector is 30% smaller than SMPM connectors, with a PCB footprint of 2.65 by 2.65mm that enables the use of smaller boards in space-constrained applications.

Enhances design flexibility
Various available bullet lengths, PCB mounting styles and multi-port configuration options enable greater board design freedom and reduce design constraints.

Complies with industry standards
These connectors meet VITA 67.3 standards for interoperability and durability, minimizing validation requirements for high-reliability, harsh-environment applications.

Helps avoid costly and time-consuming redesigns
The 65 GHz performance of the SMPS Connector helps future-proof designs and enables use with advanced microwave, mmWave and ultra-wideband applications.

Improves manufacturing efficiency
With blind-mating capability that features positive tactile and audible mating responses, the SMPS design allows for easier mating during the assembly process, minimizing errors and increasing speed.

Delivers exceptional reliability
Available gold plating provides corrosion resistance and stable electrical performance in harsh environments.

Datasheets and Guides

Applications by Industry

Instrumentation panels
Radar systems
Satellite communication equipment

Global positioning satellite system equipment
Handheld radios
Improvised explosive device-jamming modules

VITA 67.3 data transmission equipment

Oscilloscopes
Vector network analyzers

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are SMPS Connectors?

SMPS Connectors from Molex are microminiature, high-frequency, board-to-board and cable-to-board RF connectors that deliver high-precision connectivity at mmWave frequencies up to 65 GHz. The connector’s compact 2.65 by 2.65mm footprint is 30% smaller than SMPM alternatives, while the rugged construction complies with VITA 67.3 standards for high-density RF connectivity in advanced communications infrastructure applications.

What makes Molex SMPS Connectors different from the competition?

Unlike alternative microminiature connector options that are proprietary designs, the SMPS design is an industry-standard interface that ensures broad compatibility and intermateability. Molex SMPS Connectors are manufactured to rigorous quality standards to ensure reliable, high-precision signal integrity and consistent operation. The SMPS design also meets MIL-STD-348B interface specifications, unlike some alternative proprietary designs, enabling use in advanced communications infrastructure applications.

How do SMPS Connectors create value for manufacturers?

The small footprint and compact board spacing of SMPS Connectors maximizes PCB real estate. These connectors support next-generation high-frequency applications, reduce assembly errors by offering misalignment tolerance and ensure high data throughput. This enables manufacturers to develop scalable, future-proof designs that result in faster time to market.

Why choose SMPS over other standard interfaces?

The SMPS Connector uses a compact, robust design with many options for RF connectivity. Its dependability makes it ideal for high-performance systems and miniaturized applications. Molex provides technical support for all SMPS products.

What is the difference between SMPS Connectors and similar microminiature RF connectors?

Compared to SMPM connectors, SMPS Connectors reduce the PCB footprint size by 30% while maintaining a frequency range up to 65 GHz. They also feature a unique blind-mating design with 0.25mm radial and axial misalignment tolerance, enabling faster assembly, improved reliability and better cost efficiency in high-density, high-performance systems.

How does the SMPS Connector ensure alignment during mating?

SMPS Connectors accommodate up to 0.25mm of both radial and axial misalignment. This tolerance, combined with the push-on or snap coupling design, facilitates easier and more reliable blind-mate board-to-board connections, minimizing mechanical stress, and ensuring consistent electrical performance.