San-tron Inc., a manufacturer of RF coaxial connectors and cable assemblies, has announced a full line of field-replaceable SMAs for applications from DC to 26.5 GHz (and with usable performance to 31 GHz). The connector families include models for mating with 0.012-, 0.015-, 0.018- and 0.020-in. center pins to accommodate a wide range of RF/microwave circuit dimensions, with the smallest center pins offering the best high-frequency performance.

These rugged 50-Ω field-replaceable SMAs feature passivated 303 stainless-steel bodies with gold-plated center contacts and PTFE insulators for superior voltage-handling capabilities. All models are rated for maximum dielectric withstanding voltage (DWV) of 1000 V RMS at 60 Hz and sea level. The operating-voltage ratings of the connectors is a function of the center-pin dimensions. For example, connectors designed to accept 0.012-in. center pins are rated for operating voltages to 335 V RMS at sea level. Connectors designed to accept 0.020-in. center pins are rated for operating voltages to 500 V RMS at sea level.

San-tron's field-replaceable SMAs are RF tuned to achieve mode-free performance from DC to 26.5 GHz. These reliable connectors feature VSWR of 1.07:1 or better from DC to 11 GHz, 1.25:1 or better through 20 GHz and 1.38:1 or better through 26.5 GHz. The connectors meet the mechanical interface requirements of MIL-STD-348.

San-tron field-replaceable SMAs are available in versions with integral EMI gaskets and for ground-plane mounting (without EMI gaskets). They can be supplied with a wide range of mounting options, including two-hole and four-hole mounting configurations, and are designed for operating temperatures from -65° to +165°C.

Fred Hull, San-tron's director of engineering, explains that the outstanding frequency range of these field-replaceable SMA receptacles can help extend a component or system's usable frequency range: "Especially when using the connectors for 0.012-in. center pins, these connectors can provide additional mode-free operation, out to 31 GHz, for many applications." The new SMA receptacles are suitable for components and systems requiring broadband frequency coverage in a wide range of commercial and military applications.