Coaxial Adapter

When the plugs of a cable don't fit into the socket where they are intended, Coaxial Adapters can quickly and easily resolve the issue. However, unlike Coaxial Pigtails, it's often not possible to connect thick cables to the small connectors of WiFi devices using an adapter. As there are many different connector systems, adapters offer a cost-effective and straightforward solution when connecting devices from different manufacturers via coaxial cables, for example. Coaxial adapters are simply screwed onto the existing connectors of the coaxial cable and can be used directly.
 

Use of a Coaxial Cable:
Coaxial cables are high-frequency antenna cables used when connecting an external antenna, such as with a router. They typically consist of four different components: an inner conductor, usually made of copper wire; a non-conductive dielectric, ideally made of foam; one or two shields made of foil or braid; and an insulating outer sheath. The skin effect, problematic for coaxial cables, occurs when covering longer distances and causes signal damping. Even at two meters, damping of about 40% can be observed. Thicker cables reduce this effect but are often incompatible with the small connectors on WiFi components. However, it's not always feasible to use low-loss network or LAN cables for networking, so coaxial cables specifically designed for antenna-to-router connections are used.

Use of a Coaxial Adapter:
Various types of connectors have become established. Some were developed because they were suitable for different requirements—either particularly robust, flexible, or small. However, different manufacturers also use their own connector systems for their devices. This creates the challenge of having a cable with a specific connector type and a device with, in the worst case, two different sockets at each end. To avoid having to purchase a new, specially configured cable each time, there are adapters for both ends of the cable. These adapters are not only cost-effective but also easy to use, reusable, and do not damage the cable. They can be easily applied by amateurs, as they only need to be plugged into the appropriate end. If you are unsure which adapter fits your connector system, feel free to contact our customer service—we are happy to help! By the way, a photo always helps greatly with identification.

Various Connector Types:

• TNC (Threaded Neill-Concelman): One of the classic connectors, comparable to a BNC connector but with a threaded rather than bayonet lock. The TNC connector is also available in a reverse version as RP-TNC, with the male and female components reversed. The inner resistance is 50 ohms, and the highest frequency is approximately 18 GHz.

• SMA (Sub Miniature A): The SMA connector is commonly used in connecting WiFi devices to WiFi antennas, making it an essential component for increasing WiFi range. It can be used in the frequency range between 1 to 26.5 GHz. The standard SMA connector has a male inner conductor pin and a female socket, but it is also available in a reverse version with inverted polarity. The SMB connector (Sub Miniature B) is suitable for frequencies up to 4 GHz and, as a connector without threading, is only suitable for use inside devices.

• FME (For Mobile Equipment): The FME connector is visually a smaller version of the SMA connector and is suitable for the frequency range up to 3 GHz. Its small size makes the FME connector ideal for smaller mobile devices and for use with particularly thin coaxial cables.

• N Connector: N connectors have been on the market for decades and can be used in the high-frequency range up to 18 GHz. With double shielding, the connector provides excellent protection against external influences and can therefore be used outdoors. A stable connection to the connected device can be ensured through screwing. N connectors and sockets are also available in a reverse version called N-Reverse.

• 90° Angle: An adapter in a 90° angle allows not only the connection of multiple components via a single coaxial cable but also facilitates a secure change of direction during cable installation.