What is an N-type RF Coaxial Connector?

The N-type RF coaxial connector is a universal threaded RF coaxial connector designed by Paul Neill of Bell Labs in the 1940s ("N" is taken from the first letter of his surname). It has the characteristics of high power, low loss, and high frequency, and is widely used in communications, radar, test instruments and other fields.

1. Core features of N-type connector
(1) Frequency range
Standard type: 0~11 GHz (some precision models can reach 18 GHz).
High performance type (such as precision N type): supports up to 18 GHz, or even higher (such as 40 GHz).

(2) Impedance matching
50Ω (mainstream, used for communications and test equipment).
75Ω (less common, used in specific scenarios such as video transmission).

(3) High power carrying
Average power: hundreds of watts to kilowatts (depending on frequency and design).
Peak power: up to tens of kilowatts (short pulse applications).

(4) Durability
Threaded coupling structure (more stable than BNC) and strong vibration resistance.
Metal shell (brass/stainless steel) provides good electromagnetic shielding.

(5) Low loss
Insertion loss: <0.1 dB@3 GHz (high-quality model).
Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR): <1.3:1 (precision type can reach 1.1:1).

2. Structure of N-type connector
(1) Outer conductor (shell)
Metal material (gold plating/silver plating/nickel plating), threaded design ensures tight connection.
(2) Inner conductor (center pin)
Gold or silver plating, providing low resistance contact.
(3) Insulation medium
Usually PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), high temperature resistant and low dielectric loss.
(4) Interface type
Male: with center pin and external thread.
Female: with center hole and internal thread.

3. Key Points for Selecting an N-type Connector
Impedance Matching: 50Ω models are preferred (unless 75Ω is specifically required).
Frequency Requirements:
General Applications (<6 GHz): Standard N-type.
High-Frequency Applications (>11 GHz): Precision N-type (such as the HPN series).
Environmental Compatibility:
Outdoor/Military Grade: Choose a stainless steel housing with waterproof sealing (such as IP67).
Laboratory Applications: Gold-plated models (reduce contact resistance).
Interface Compatibility:
Pay attention to male-to-female connector pairing (such as male-to-female adapters).

4. Common Problems with N-type RF Coaxial Connectors
(1). Can N-type connectors replace SMA?
Yes, but there are trade-offs: N-type connectors offer better power and durability, but are larger and less suitable for high-density, miniaturized devices. SMA connectors are more suitable for high-frequency, compact designs (such as PCB modules).

(2). How to avoid damage to N-type connectors?
Correct operation: Align the threads and tighten (avoid forcing the screws to bend the center pin). Use a torque wrench (recommended torque: 15~20 in-lb).

(3). Does N-type connector require regular maintenance?
Recommendation: Clean the contact surface regularly (alcohol + dust-free cloth). Check if the threads are oxidized (replace when the plating is worn).