Samtec Expands Threaded SMPM RF Connectors For High-Vibration Systems

High-frequency RF interconnects are often chosen for electrical performance first, but the mechanical interface becomes just as important once the assembly is exposed to vibration, shock, or repeated movement. Samtec has expanded its SMPM cable-to-board Precision RF connector family with new small-form-factor threaded cable-to-board mated sets for high-vibration environments.

The new Samtec threaded SMPM connector assemblies use an SMPM MIL-STD-348 interface with a retractable threaded coupling nut. They are designed for RF and millimeter-wave applications where traditional push-on interconnects may not provide enough retention force under demanding mechanical conditions.

Samtec is positioning the connectors for military, aerospace, and communications systems where compact RF connections need to remain stable while still supporting high-frequency signal performance.

Threaded SMPM Interface For Stronger Retention

Push-on SMPM connectors are useful where compact size and quick mating are important, but vibration can expose the limits of that retention method. Samtec’s new threaded SMPM mated sets add a mechanically secured interface while keeping the small form factor associated with SMPM designs.

The family includes RF047-A and RF086 low-loss millimeter-wave cable assembly options. These support frequencies up to 67 GHz, while the SMPMT threaded board-mount plugs are available up to 60 GHz. That gives designers a cable-to-board RF path suited for compact systems where connector retention, board stress, and signal integrity all have to be considered together.

Cable And Board Options For Millimeter-Wave Layouts

Samtec offers the assemblies with .047-inch and .086-inch low-loss flexible millimeter-wave cable types. The connectors are also available with full detent or smooth bore options, allowing designers to select different retention forces depending on the application.

For the board side, the SMPMT threaded SMPM plugs use mixed-technology board termination. Samtec says this helps resist mechanical stress while still supporting high-frequency performance. The SMPMT connector is specified with a typical VSWR of 1.35:1 from 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz.

Standard Options With Application Flexibility

Samtec is also offering a range of end options for the assemblies, allowing engineers to adapt the interconnect to different system requirements without moving fully into a custom connector design. That matters in RF systems where cable routing, board stack-up, enclosure geometry, and available mating space can all influence the final connector selection.

The SMPM cable-to-board Precision RF connectors are available from stock directly from Samtec. RF047-A cable assemblies and SMPMT threaded plugs are also included in the Samtec Reserve program with one-day shipment.

Learn more and read the original announcement at www.samtec.com

Technology Overview

Samtec’s expanded SMPM Precision RF connector family includes threaded cable-to-board mated sets for high-vibration RF and millimeter-wave systems. The assemblies use a threaded SMPM MIL-STD-348 interface with a retractable threaded coupling nut.

The RF047-A and RF086 cable assembly families support frequencies up to 67 GHz, while SMPMT threaded board-mount plugs are available up to 60 GHz. The SMPMT connector is specified with typical VSWR of 1.35:1 from 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Samtec’s threaded SMPM connectors used for?

They are used for cable-to-board RF connections in high-vibration environments such as military, aerospace, and communications systems.

What frequency range do the new Samtec SMPM assemblies support?

The RF047-A and RF086 cable assemblies support operation up to 67 GHz, while SMPMT threaded board-mount plugs are available up to 60 GHz.

Why use a threaded SMPM connector instead of a push-on connector?

A threaded interface provides stronger mechanical retention, which can be useful in environments where vibration may exceed the retention capability of traditional push-on RF interconnects.