N to U.FL Cables
N-Type Connector to U.FL: Cables for Antennas
A U.FL to N-connector adapter cable is a short length of mini or micro coax capped at the ends with:
[A] a U.FL connector at one end, and
[B] a Type N connector at the other.
It is also known as a U.FL to N pigtail or transition cable.
[A] The U.FL connector is a micro-miniature connector designed by the Japanese manufacturer Hirose and is compatible with contemporary radio frequency connectors like the I-PEX, IPX, and UMCC. U.FL connectors can support microwave frequencies up to 6 GHz.
[B] Type N or N connectors are medium-sized radio frequency connectors that support frequencies up to 11 GHz. They are known for their ruggedness and reliable performance in outdoor conditions.
The interconnecting length of mini or micro-coaxial can be 1.13, 1.32, and RG 174. The cable is usually kept short to minimize signal loss.
U.FL connector physical specifications
- This is an extremely small connector with a mated height of just over 2mm.
- Lightweight - weighing around 50mg.
- U.FL connectors consist of a phosphor bronze shell, the male or female central contact, and a surrounding insulator.
- Male connector: surface-mounted plug with a central solid pin.
- Female connector: jack with a central receptacle for the male pin.
- Sure mating carries a clicking sensation.
- Rated for 30 mating cycles.
U.FL connector electrical specifications
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Max frequency: 6 GHz
- V.S.W.R: is 1.3
- Max voltage: 60V and is capable of being used with frequencies up to 6GHz.
Type N connector
The size and ruggedness of an N-connector make it useful for outdoor applications, so radio devices that are primarily used or installed outdoors use this connector. When used in a pigtail adapter with the MCX or MMCX connector, the N connector can be used to connect a larger antenna to a PCB-mounted MMCX connector. This is because the N connector is more rugged, easier to handle, and will withstand repeated mating. Here are the Type N connector specifications:
Physical specifications of the N connector
- Threaded medium-size connector
- 5/8 - 24 pitched UNEF threading
- Mates by screw coupling; rated for 500+ mating cycles
- Material: nickel-plated brass or stainless steel
- Male N connector: diameter of 0.800 inches (20.3 millimeters) with internalized threads and hex nut
- Female N connector: diameter of 0.620 inches (15.7 millimeters)with externalized threads
- O-ring seal achieves an IP 67 rating, making the connection dust and moisture-free
- Standard N connectors do not have a dielectric
Electrical specifications of the N connector
- Nominal impedance: 50 ohms
- Maximum frequency: up to 11 GHz
- Peak voltage rating: 1500 volts
- Dielectric withstanding voltage: up to 2500 volts.
- VSWR of 1.3.
- Contact resistance: 1 milliohm
- Insertion loss: 0.15 dB.
- Radio frequency leakage: -90 decibels at 3GHz.
U.FL to N connector cable applications
The U.FL to N connector provides a useful conversion of size and caliber. The marked size transition means that a large outdoor antenna with an N can be connected to a device via a PCB-mounted U.FL connector. These short pigtails protect the radio frequency performance of device they are used on, maintaining the impedance along the line.
The U.FL connector increases connectivity in small spaces while the large and rugged N connector can be externalized for connecting an outdoor antenna. The use of an N connector means that antennas can be repeatedly connected and disconnected via the more robust N connector.