[SOLVED] Can RF connector/cable stand 200mA current?

[mmitchell]

Hello,

In one of our application (non-RF) we looked for small connectors for Hirose, Molex and TE Connectivity, and our search shows that RF connectors are probably the type of the smallest PCB footrprint.

My questions is how much current such connector could stand? For example, one of the RF connector we are looking at is Hirose W.FL2 **broken link removed**, with a board area of only 2mm×2mm.


However, no information is given in the datasheet regarding its current rating. Our application uses constant current (not-alternating), and the current value is about 200mA. Can the RF connector and its associated connector stand such current?


Matt

 

[jiripolivka]

Hello,

In one of our application (non-RF) we looked for small connectors for Hirose, Molex and TE Connectivity, and our search shows that RF connectors are probably the type of the smallest PCB footrprint.

My questions is how much current such connector could stand? For example, one of the RF connector we are looking at is Hirose W.FL2 **broken link removed**, with a board area of only 2mm×2mm.
View attachment 97120

However, no information is given in the datasheet regarding its current rating. Our application uses constant current (not-alternating), and the current value is about 200mA. Can the RF connector and its associated connector stand such current?


Matt

Any coaxial connector can allow also DC current. The rule is not about the connector but the inner conductor of the coaxial cable connected to it.
For a copper conductor, 200 mA DC requires approx. 0.25-0.3 mm diameter. A 0.5 mm dia. wire can hold more than 1A DC current.
The coaxial cable can dissipate several watts by thermal conduction. In a connector the joint is assumed to be soldered, and again-the connector may get warm but not so hot that insulation may be affected.
Run a test with what you have and measure cable and connector temperature to be sure nothing bad can happen.

 

[mmitchell]

Do you mean that the "solid" metal part (soldered on the board) is no problem. How much current can they stand?

Is there any datasheet of similar connetors with current rating?

 

[jiripolivka]

Do you mean that the "solid" metal part (soldered on the board) is no problem. How much current can they stand?

Is there any datasheet of similar connetors with current rating?

The "solid part" should be thicker than the coaxial cable inner conductor. The weakest part is always important.
Again, run a temperature test.

I have not seen any DC current specification for any RF connector. Check if the maximum power is specified, and derive the current from it and the nominal impedance.