RF cabling is utilized in many mission-critical applications for radar, communication, and navigation systems which may be ground-, sea-, or space-based. To ensure the correct RF cable assembly is chosen, a number of factors need to be considered. Smiths Interconnect’s SpaceNXT™ QT RF cable assemblies equipped with the NEW Mini-Lock connectors provide a superior solution to addresses them all.
Excellent Performance
When considering performance, many aspects should be included. SpaceNXT™ QT / Mini-Lock cable assemblies can operate up to 110 GHz with very low insertion loss and VSWR covering a wide variety of applications. Patent pending technology is utilized to avoid common electrical bead resonance and other RF issues found at very high frequencies. The RF cable assemblies are excellent in harsh environments with an operating temperature range between -65 °C to 165 °C and are made with low loss fluoropolymer dielectric and constructed with materials which meet the outgassing requirements of NASA/ESA when tested per ASTM E595. Phased matched pairs and sets are available with a standard tolerance of +/- 1° per GHz, or +/-2.8 picoseconds.
Figure 1 Typical VSWR versus frequency for SpaceNXT QT cable.
Ultimate Reliability
In mission critical applications, it is essential that RF cable assemblies are properly connected, remain connected when mated, and mate/demate many times without degradation. SpaceNXT™ QT / Mini-Lock cable assemblies have an audible click when properly installed. The connectors have a >50 lbs pull strength, meaning the cable would likely break before the connection would be lost. In addition, they have been qualified to meet MIL-STD-202G, Method 204 (vibration standards) and MIL-STD-202G, Method 213, Condition I (shock standards) and incorporate an ETFE material for maximum radiation resistance. Should multiple connections be required, the Mini-Lock connectors can be mated and demated >100 times without degradation. This superior dependability is be backed with reliability data and lot traceability. To view the connection mechanism in action, go to High Frequency Mini-Lock Connector.
Ease of Integration
To take advantage of excellent performance and ultimate reliability, RF cable assemblies need to be easy to integrate. The Mini-Lock connector has a quick lock mechanism for blind-mate connections with low insertion force enabling faster, lower labor cost integration. Since there is no coupling nut requiring a torque wrench, the small and light weight connectors are ideal for use in tight spaces or high-density applications.
Figure 3 Mini-Lock connector with quick-lock mechanism.
Proven Supplier
Smiths Interconnect products have been trusted for use in hundreds of military/defense, commercial, and scientific programs on land, at sea and in space, such as the Mars Exploration Program. With long-standing relationships with the world’s leading companies and organizations, Smiths Interconnect’s capabilities have been employed from application concept to deployment/launch and have included design reviews, qualification testing, special process documentation, lot traceability, and custom packaging. RF cable assemblies can be involved in many mission critical programs involving GEO/MEO/LEO satellite systems, radar systems, electronic warfare, unmanned vehicles and many other demanding applications. To ensure success, only select RF cable assemblies that provide excellent performance, have the ultimate reliability, are easy to integrate, and are readily available from proven suppliers. Smiths Interconnect SpaceNXT™ Q / Mini-Lock cable assemblies are the ideal solution trusted by industry-leaders around the world.