Solderless coaxial connectors

L-com has introduced a new line of coaxial connectors that do not require solder to terminate, making them ideal for terminating cable in the field. The connectors feature a captive center pin designed to clamp around the center conductor of the cable, eliminating the need to attach it separately since it is already assembled into the connector body.

Until now, L-com only offered three types of coaxial connectors: one-, two-, or three-piece crimp connectors, single-piece clamp connectors, and twist-on or tap connectors. In order to get the best termination on a coaxial cable, however, they would require the center pin to be separately soldered or crimped on the center conductor before crimping the rest of the connector body to the cable.

The new connectors eliminate that step: simply strip the cable per the recommended dimensions, then slide the ferrule over the cable and insert the stripped cable into the connector body. After sliding the ferrule back up to the connector body and crimping, the connector has the same superior connectivity and hold as older solder crimp connectors.

"Technicians often need to attach coaxial connectors in the field and in wireless applications," said Patrick Pesa, Director of Product Development for L-com. "Handling and soldering of the center pin is time consuming and tedious even in the best of situations, and more-so in the field. These new connectors will greatly help field installers."

Currently, L-com offers:

ANM-1420 - Solderless Type N Male Connector for 400-Series Low-Loss Cable
ARSP-1726 - Solderless Reverse Polarity SMA Plug Right Angle for 195-Series Low-Loss Cable
ARSP-1728 - Solderless Reverse Polarity SMA Plug Straight for 195-Series Low-Loss Cable

There are plans to add additional types throughout 2013. In addition to the improved termination process, the connectors also feature gold plating on the center pin and a nickel-plated brass body that is ideal for outdoor use.

From the Archives: Coaxial connectors: a dinosaur, or a tool for the future?