SMP Terminators

The SMP terminator family from Amphenol RF provides designers and system integrators with a termination solution that aligns with the SMP connector interface. The SMP interface is a sub-miniature coaxial format supporting broadband operation (up to DC–40 GHz in its connector family) and is commonly used in miniaturized, high-frequency coaxial modules and cable-to-board or board-to-board assemblies.

When unused ports or signal paths exist in RF systems—whether in instrumentation, communication modules or dense RF assemblies—SMP terminators provide proper 50 Ω matching, reduce reflections and help preserve system integrity. Capable of handling high frequencies and compact form-factors, these terminations are ideal for modern RF architectures.

Features and Benefits

• Standard 50 Ω impedance termination, matching the SMP connector family, simplifying inventory and selection.
• High-frequency capability: SMP connectors support DC to ~26.5 GHz (and up to ~40 GHz in extended designs), ensuring terminators can support advanced RF module requirements.
• Compact push-on or snap-on coupling style allows quick installation and removal—beneficial in high-density module environments.
• Miniature footprint supports dense board-to-board or cable-to-board layouts where space savings are critical.
• Trusted manufacturing and documentation via Amphenol RF provide confidence in specification adherence and supply chain support.

Key Technical Details

• Impedance: 50 Ω standard for the SMP terminator product line.
• Frequency Range: While exact terminator performance depends on part number and cable/assembly, data shows SMP terminators up to ~26.6 GHz in many catalogued items.
• Mating Cycles: The SMP connector family is rated for minimum 100 mating cycles under standard conditions. Terminator durability will vary with usage environment.
• Temperature Range: Typical operating range referenced is –65 °C to +165 °C for the connector family and in cataloged SMP terminators.
• Special Features: Miniature size, push-on coupling, high-frequency capability. Note: standard SMP terminators are not hermetically sealed or IP67 rated unless explicitly stated in the part datasheet.

Applications

• RF modules and subsystem boards where the SMP interface is used and unused ports require proper termination to preserve signal integrity.
• High-frequency instrumentation and test equipment taking advantage of SMP’s broadband ability and terminations for unused ports or calibration paths.
• Dense cable assemblies or backplane interconnects where board-to-board spacing is constrained and terminations must occupy minimal space while maintaining performance.
• Wireless communications assemblies, aerospace or defence RF modules where compact form-factor and termination reliability are key.
• Coaxial cable assemblies and high-speed data paths using SMP connectors where matched terminations are needed to limit reflections and maintain system stability.

Explore our full SMP terminator portfolio from Amphenol RF. If your application requires a non-standard power rating, custom cable lead, specialized finish or environmental sealing beyond the standard catalog, contact our engineering team to tailor a solution to your needs.