SMA RF Coaxial Connectors
SMA connectors are threaded RF coaxial connectors designed for reliable, high-frequency signal transmission up to 34 GHz, with a 50-ohm impedance. They are widely used in industrial, automotive and wireless applications.
Overview
SMA coaxial connectors are a compact, high-performance interface designed to deliver reliable signal integrity in demanding applications up to 18 GHz with extended capabilities to 34 GHz. Amphenol RF offers a broad portfolio of precision SMA RF connectors engineered for durability, repeatable mating, and consistent electrical performance across industries including Aerospace, Mobile Networks, Instrumentation and Military and Defense.
Crafted in stainless steel or brass per MIL‑C‑39012 standards, SMA interfaces provide repeatable contact, excellent phase stability and compatibility with industry-standard cables, semi‑rigid and LMR series. Available in a variety of plug, jack, and adapter configurations, these 50 Ω connectors provide secure threaded coupling and dependable connectivity for critical RF systems. Designed to handle up to 34 GHz in extended‑range versions, SMA connectors are trusted in portable radios, radar systems, aerospace and precision test solutions where signal integrity is paramount and mechanical ruggedness is essential.
Features and Benefits
- Precision ¼‑36 threaded coupling for robust vibration resistance
- Frequency range DC–18 GHz (up to 34 GHz extended‑range)
- High durability: up to 500 mating cycles
- Materials: stainless steel or brass, gold/nickel/passivated finishes
- Compatible with flexible, low‑loss and semi‑rigid/coaxial cables
- Precision-grade options ideal for phase‑sensitive microwave applications
Key Technical Details
- Impedance: 50 Ω
- Frequency Range: DC–18 GHz (connector/cable dependent; extended range to 34 GHz)
- Voltage Rating: 335 Vrms continuous; 1000 Vrms dielectric withstand
- Dielectric Material: PTFE
- Coupling Torque: 3–5 in·lbf (brass), 7–10 in·lbf (stainless steel)
Applications
- RF and microwave test and measurement systems
- Antenna feedlines and base station radios
- Aerospace and defense instrumentation
- Precision phase‑matching in radar and navigation systems
- OEM and lab RF interconnects requiring durability and accuracy
Browse our range of standard SMA Connectors or contact our engineers for custom rotary, phase-matched, or ultra-low-loss solutions.
Related Products
Amphenol RF offers a full range of compatible SMA Adapters and SMA Cable Assemblies
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Specifications
SMA Connectors
Electrical
| Impedance | 50 Ohm |
| Frequency Range | DC - 18 GHz (Up to 34 GHz on Extended Range Designs) |
| Voltage Rating | 335 Volts RMS Continuous |
| Dielectric Withstanding Voltage | 1000 VRMS Min |
| VSWR (Return Loss) | |
M39012 Straight Connectors |
|
.141" OD Copper Jacket Cable |
1.05 + .005 f (GHz) |
RG-58/RG-142 Group |
1.15 + .011 f (GHz) DC-12.4 GHz |
RG-174/RG-316 Group |
1.15 + .02 f (GHz) DC-12.4 GHz |
RG-178 Group |
1.20 + .025 f (GHz) DC-12.4 GHz |
M39012 Angle Connectors |
|
.141" OD Copper Jacket Cable |
1.10 + .01 f (GHz) |
RG-58/RG-142 Group |
1.15 + .02 f (GHz) DC-12.4 GHz |
RG-174/RG-316 Group |
1.15 + .03 f (GHz) DC-12.4 GHz |
RG-178 Group |
1.20 + .03 f (GHz) DC-12.4 GHz |
| Insulation Resistance | 5000 MΩ Min |
| Center Contact Resistance | 3.0 mΩ Max |
| Outer Contact Resistance | 2.0 mΩ Max |
| RF Leakage | -60 dB Max (DC - 3 GHz) |
| Insertion Loss | .06 √(f(GHz)) dB Max |
| Power Handling | 75 W @ 10 GHz @ 25ºC |
Environmental
| Temperature Range | |
Typical |
-65°C to +165°C |
Styrene Insulator or Phosphor Bronze Contact |
-40°C to +85°C |
| Thermal Shock | MIL-STD-202, Method 107 (Test Condition B) except high temp test @ +200°C |
| Corrosion | MIL-STD-202, Method 101 (Test Condition B) - 5% Salt Solution |
| Vibration | MIL-STD-202, Method 204 (Test Condition D) |
| Mechanical Shock | MIL-STD-202, Method 213 (Test Condition I) - No Discontinuity Permitted |
| Moisture Resistance | MIL-STD-202, Method 106 |
| Altitude | MIL-STD-202, Method 105 (Test Condition C) |
Mechanical
| Mating Cycles | 500 Min |
| Coupling Mechanism | Threaded |
| Interface Specification | MIL-STD-348 |
| Mating Torque (Stainless Steel Plug) | 0.8 - 1.1 N-m (7 - 10 in-lbs) |
| Mating Torque (Brass Plug) | 0.3 - 0.6 N-m (3 - 5 in-lbs) |
Note: These characteristics are typical and may not apply to all connectors.
Connector configurations may affect performance.
Interface Dimensions
Plug
Jack
Frequently Asked Questions About SMA Connectors
What is an SMA connector?
SMA connectors are 50 ohm coaxial RF connectors with a threaded interface, commonly used in microwave systems, antennas, and test equipment.
What is the frequency range of SMA connectors?
Standard SMA connectors operate from DC to 18 GHz, with precision versions supporting up to 34 GHz.
How do I select an SMA connector for a cable?
Select an SMA connector based on the cable type, connector gender, frequency range, mounting configuration, and environmental requirements of your application. Amphenol RF offers SMA connectors for flexible, semi-rigid, and conformable coaxial cables, including common cable types such as RG-58, RG-142, RG-174, RG-178, and RG-316. For pre-configured solutions, explore our SMA Cable Assemblies.
What torque should be used for an SMA connector?
The recommended mating torque depends on the SMA connector material. Amphenol RF specifies 3–5 in-lbf (0.3–0.6 N·m) for brass plugs and 7–10 in-lbf (0.8–1.1 N·m) for stainless steel plugs. Always check the individual product drawing or datasheet for the specific connector before installation.
What is the difference between SMA and RP-SMA?
RP-SMA connectors reverse the gender of the center pin while maintaining the same threaded interface. Amphenol RF offers RP-SMA Connectors and RP-SMA Adapters for applications requiring this interface.
How many mating cycles are typical for SMA connectors?
SMA connectors are typically rated for 500 mating cycles minimum, although the actual durability can vary depending on the connector design, materials, and application. Amphenol RF also offers specialized SMA designs and cable assemblies for applications requiring repeated mating and long-term mechanical durability.
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