Designers also need to consider the minimum bend radius when selecting an assembly. Due to their complex construction, RF cables tend to be rather stiff. For situations that require tight turns, look for solutions like the flexible microwave assemblies from Molex (Figure 4). These cables are specifically designed for a smaller static bend radius. Temperature extremes can also be an issue, particularly for outdoor applications like those in the telecom sector. For such applications, the thermoplastic jackets common on RF cable assemblies are not suitable.
STATIC BEND RADIUS (MIN.)
CABLE PART NO.
CENTER CONDUCTOR
OUTSIDE DIAMETER
CUTOFF FREQUENCY
IMPEDANCE VOP CAPACITANCE
INSULATION JACKET
0.20"
0.0113"
0.061"
112 GHz
100067-1047
70% 29 pF/ft
100067-1086
0.30"
0.0201"
0.101"
62 GHz
100067-1141
0.50"
0.036"
0.158"
41 GHz
100054-0007
23.0 pF/ft
0.30"
0.0126"
0.056"
143 GHz
PFA
FEP
50±1 Ohms
100054-0006
23.4 pF/ft
0.38"
0.0253
0.158"
42 GHz
100054-0008
0.75"
0.0453"
0.158"
42 GHz
87%
100054-0027
1.00"
0.0571"
0.210"
31 GHz
23.3 pF/ft
100054-0028
1.60"
0.0907"
0.310"
19 GHz
Figure 4: Shown is a sampling of RF cables with a small static bend radius. (Image source: Molex)
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