Flexible low loss cables save space and reduce test time

10th July 2017

AtlanTecRF

Alice Matthews

0 0

Datasheet

Global RF and microwave components and equipment manufacturer, AtlanTecRF, has announced the launch of its range of ultra flexible low loss test cables. The new APC series features a degree of flexibility not previously seen in assemblies of this type. Key to its ultra flexible performance is the cable construction in five layers from a silver plated copper centre conductor through low density PTFE dielectric, silver plated copper shield and silver plated copper outer shield, to the polyurethane jacket.

This last ingredient holds the key and although not having the operating temperature range of more traditional materials, such as FEP, it is considerably more flexible and still operates over the full military range of -55 to 85°C.

This flexibility, demonstrated by the minimum bend radius of just 20mm, not only improves ease of use in the test environment, along with very low stress levels on the cable, it also enables the test engineer to create a higher density test set up, saving space and reducing testing time.

With operating frequency ranges up to 26.5GHz, the APC cable assemblies are available with SMA male connectors as standard and also with type N male with 18GHz versions.

Standard stock lengths offered are from 0.5-5m in 0.5m intervals. Custom lengths are also available up to 25m and beyond. Insertion loss is 1.0dB per metre at 6GHz and 2.5dB per metre at 26.5 GHz, plus stability is ±3° and shielding effectiveness is greater than 90dB.

Speaking at the product launch at AtlanTecRF’s R&D Centre in Braintree in the UK, CEO Geoff Burling said: “Again in this new test cable design we have put the user at the forefront of our thinking in providing an incredibly flexible cable with excellent RF performance, typified by its velocity of propagation of 76%.”

All assemblies are RoHS compliant and individual test data is also available.