Samtec adds low-profile RF ganged connector

Samtec has expanded its ganged, multi-port SMPM Magnum RF product family with a low-profile 3.94-mm (.155″) body height, right-angle option for maximum channel density in low- or mid-band systems. Claimed as the industry’s first low-profile, right-angle multi-port solution with performance up to 50 GHz, the GPPC RF ganged connector series targets space-constrained applications that require high operating frequency.

Magnum RF achieves a 40-percent greater density, Samtec said, and better positional alignment per channel compared to traditional, discrete SMPM interconnects. Applications include phased array radar, 5G/6G networking, military, defense and test & measurement.

(Source: Samtec)

The new low-profile, right-angle option in the GPPC Series interconnect is specified with a GPPC -RA-SM part number scheme. The 3.94-mm body height suits highly dense systems while the push-on interface helps with mating/unmating.

Samtec said one way to leverage the new low-profile GPPC -RA-SM design is to assemble it into a belly-to-belly application, with top and bottom placement close to the edge of the board. This maximizes board real estate while doubling the density and throughput. The GPPC -RA-SM will operate mode-free up to 50 GHz per channel with 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 channels available. It is also suited for low-profile, mid-board connections.

When integrating with cable assemblies, Samtec said, the micro-miniature SMPM design can be used with smaller diameter materials and smaller bundle sizes for weight savings and increased system airflow for cooling. Ganged Magnum RF cable assemblies (GC47 or GC86 Series) with .047″ or .086″ size cables are available with a minimum static bend radius of 0.125″ or 0.350″.

The SMPM interface offers several advantages when connecting two PCBs. This includes compensating for misalignment when paired with a bullet adapter, eliminating axial gap when paired with a spring-loaded adaptor, which improves return loss, as well as enabling high mating cycles and accommodating varying retention force requirements.

Standard Magnum RF products are single-row interconnects with a 3.56-mm (.140″) channel pitch. This family of products with SMPM interfaces operates from DC to 65 GHz. Custom channel pitch, custom channel counts and multi-row designs are available.