Understanding 2.4mm and 1.85mm Loads & Terminations: What Engineers Need to Know

 

Accuracy is the most important part of the RF and microwave testing world. During signal debugging or when building a high-frequency test bed, the quality and production of your terminations can mean the difference between your success and failure. This is where 2.4mm load / 2.4mm termination comes into the picture because they are both small but with immense responsibility of producing correct performance.

At GwaveTech, we realize how much importance is placed on reliable terminations, particularly as frequencies rise and systems grow smaller and more intricate. Let's dismantle the fundamentals of 2.4mm and 1.85mm loads, and why selecting the correct termination isn't only clever—it's indispensable.

Why 2.4mm Loads and Terminations Remain Relevant

The 2.4mm connector system is a standard in high-frequency test situations, capable of performing to 50 GHz. It's tough, rugged, and offers a solid connection—ideal for demanding lab environments or field uses where repeatability is key.

A 2.4mm load is generally employed as a precision termination at the terminal of a transmission line or signal path to mimic matched impedance. This prevents reflections and provides consistent test results. Whether you're measuring return loss or characterizing a DUT (device under test), a quality 2.4mm termination can prevent noisy data and wasted time.

Moving Higher with 1.85mm Loads and Terminations

Since applications continue to move further into the millimeter-wave range, engineers are looking at 1.85mm terminations. These miniature connectors operate up to 65 GHz and are perfect for next-generation telecom, radar, and high-speed digital systems.

1.85mm terminations do the same thing—deliver a clean, impedance-matched termination—but are constructed to handle much tighter tolerances at much higher frequencies. They are commonly found in vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration kits, probe stations, and other high-precision RF equipment.

It is not merely the size difference between 1.85mm load / 1.85mm termination but it is also the functionality that matters. The two connector types resemble each other, yet they are not interchangeable. Incorrect usage may lead to damage to the connector or even wrong results. Once again, make sure you check your specs before making any connection.

Why Choose GwaveTech Loads? 

At GwaveTech, our 2.4mm load / 2.4mm termination and load is constructed to rigorous performance standards. They're precision-machined and tested for repeatable, low-VSWR performance. From setting up a test lab or simply needing a quality termination to get through your next measurement, we've got options that provide performance without sacrifice.

Precision at High Frequencies: Choosing Between 2.92 and 1.85 Vertical Launch PCB Connectors

You might not be able to use high-frequency RF or microwave equipment correctly if you don't connect them right. 2.92 and 1.85 vertical launch PCB connectors are used for fast, sensitive part connections. What's different about them, though?

 

Understanding the Frequency Range of 2.92 Vertical Launch PCB Connectors

You can use the 2.92 vertical launch PCB connector if you need a connection that works well at frequencies up to 40 GHz. A lot of people use it in radars, phones, and lab tests. Its design strikes a good mix between speed and longevity, which makes it perfect for most high-frequency PCB needs that aren't very high.

Why the 1.85 Vertical Launch PCB Connector Excels in Ultra-High Frequency Applications

The 1.85 vertical launch PCB connector is the best choice for frequencies higher than 40 GHz, up to 67 GHz. This link is almost lossless, and it is very accurate at millimeter-wave frequencies. The connection unites military, scientific, high-tech, and other professionals.

Key Differences Between 2.92 and 1.85 Launch Styles

Both connections have a vertical launch design that cuts down on signal reflection and makes performance better. The primary difference is in how big they are and how often they can work. The 1.85 mm connection can work at higher frequencies than the 2.92 mm variant because it has tighter tolerances and a smaller interface.

Insertion Loss and VSWR Comparison for 1.85 and 2.92 Connectors

Both connections have low insertion loss and high VSWR. At higher frequencies, though, the 1.85 vertical launch PCB connector keeps the signal better than the 2.92 mm kind. 1.85 mm is the clear winner for signal routes that need a lot of power.

 

Use Cases for Each Connector Type: When to Choose 2.92 vs 1.85

If you're working in the 18–40 GHz band, especially for commercial or general RF systems, you should use a 2.92 vertical launch PCB connector. If you need to do very accurate work over 40 GHz, the 1.85 vertical launch PCB connector is the best choice for top-notch performance.

Mounting Considerations for Vertical Launch PCB Connectors

Screw-mount flanges make it easy to install both types of links without soldering, so they are a great choice for thin or delicate PCBs that cannot tolerate solder heat. 

Do you require accurate, reliable high-frequency PCB connections? Gwave makes both 2.92 and 1.85 vertical launch PCB connections that are accurate, reliable, and easy to install. Check out Gwave's selection now to get the right connection for your next project.