New eSMATM Connector Creates Rugged, Flexible, High Performance Cable Assemblies

Santron Inc., a manufacturer of RF coaxial connectors and cable assemblies, has announced the release of a new high performance connector to address the problem of signal transmission and fragility of solder joints in hand-formable cable assemblies. Santron’s new eSMA connector features a new extended ferrule and enhanced performance from an innovative internal design. This connector also features: failure-proof coupling nuts; EZ style, solder free, captivated center contacts; and a solder damming positive cable stop. Santron eSMA connectors feature the following VSWR performance: 1.10 up to 12.4 GHz, 1.20 from 12.4 to 18 GHz, and 1.31 from 18-26 GHz. Cable assemblies are delivered with these eSMAs professionally installed on Times Microwave Systems TFlexTM cable. They provide a typical VSWR of 1.38 at 14 GHz and can be bent firmly and simply even up close to the connector, where many solder joints in hand-formable assemblies often break. And unlike hand-formable assemblies, which inherently spike unpredictably, the flat and predictable broadband VSWR performance of Santron eSMA cable assemblies allows designers to consider these flexible assemblies over higher cost semi-rigid assemblies. An additional feature of Santron eSMA assemblies is passive intermodulation performance of < -150 dBc Typ. (2 x 20 watt carriers). They’re also lighter weight than, and have comparable loss to standard semi-rigid coax. The flexible nature of TFlex eliminates the need for hand or precision machine bending and allows cables to be routed through the most convenient or desired path. TFlex cable is lightweight, FEP jacketed, corrosion resistant, phase and attenuation stable, and provides excellent shielding. The combined mechanical design of this new eSMA and TFlex cable creates a unique assembly when performance, cost and flexibility are key application requirements. eSMA assemblies are built-to-spec in desired lengths and delivered with short lead times. They are available in cable sizes.086 (TFlex 405) and .141 (TFlex 402). Prices start at $24.95 in one foot lengths in quantities of 10-50. About Santron Established in 1955, Santron designs and manufactures RF coaxial connectors and cable assemblies in a variety of standard and custom configurations from SMA through LC style. With headquarters in Ipswich, Massachusetts and a wholly owned manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China, Santron offers a balanced approach to meeting market demands for high quality and competitive pricing. About Times Microwave Systems Times Microwave Systems has over 50 years experience in designing innovative, high-reliability, coaxial cables, connectors and assemblies for demanding interconnection problems. An engineering oriented organization, the company specializes in the design and manufacture of high performance flexible and semi-rigid coaxial cable, connectors, and cable assemblies for RF transmission from HF through microwave frequencies. • Frequency Range: DC-18 GHz • Voltage Rating: 355 to 500 V RMS (sea level) • Nominal Impedance: 50 ohms • DWV: 500 to 1500 V RMS (sea level) • Insulation Resistance: 10,000 megohms • Temperature Range -65ºC to +165ºC • Dielectrics: PTFE Fluorocarbon per ASTM-D-1710, Type 1, GR1, CLA • Contacts (Female): Beryllium copper per ASTM-B-196 • Gaskets: Silicone rubber per ZZ-R-765, CL II, GR 50-60 • Crimp Sleeves: DHP copper, CDA-122, soft temper • Other Metal Parts: Brass per ASTM-B-16 • Locking Rings: Beryllium copper per ASTM-B-194 • Center Contacts: Gold per MIL-G-45204 • Other Metal Parts: Silver per QQ-S-365, nickel per QQ-N-290 or Albaloy