Most connector decisions at lower frequency ranges come down to interface compatibility and cost. Push past 40GHz and the decision gets considerably more involved. At millimeter wave frequencies the connector isn't just a mechanical interface — it's an active participant in how the signal behaves. A connector that introduces unexpected impedance discontinuity, poor contact geometry, or inadequate shielding at these frequencies doesn't just degrade performance slightly. It can make a measurement or a circuit behave in ways that are difficult to diagnose and expensive to troubleshoot.
What a Vertical Launch PCB Connector Actually Does
A vertical launch PCB connector provides a transition between a coaxial interface and a transmission line on the PCB surface, with the connector body oriented perpendicular to the board. The signal enters or exits the connector vertically and transitions onto the board through the centre pin making contact with the trace.
This vertical orientation suits applications where the coaxial connection needs to arrive at the board from above rather than from the edge — test fixture arrangements, board-level sub-assemblies, and designs where end-launch geometry doesn't work with the physical layout of the system.
The quality of the coaxial-to-microstrip transition at the PCB surface determines how much of the connector's rated performance translates into actual circuit performance. Poor centre pin geometry, inadequate ground contact, or inconsistent dielectric support all create reflection and loss at the transition point that shows up clearly in S-parameter measurements.
The 1.85mm connector was developed to extend reliable coaxial performance to 67GHz — covering the millimeter wave frequencies that 1.85mm coaxial interfaces are designed for. The precision-machined interfaces, tight dimensional tolerances, and controlled dielectric geometry of the 1.85mm standard maintain consistent impedance and repeatable electrical performance across the frequency range in a way that larger connector interfaces can't sustain past their rated cutoff frequencies.
For test and measurement applications, PCB characterisation, and high-frequency circuit development pushing into the V-band and beyond, the 1.85 vertical launch PCB connector provides the interface precision the frequency range demands.
Gwave Technology supplies vertical launch PCB connectors and 1.85mm vertical launch PCB connector options alongside a full range of RF and microwave connectors, adapters, cable assemblies, and components covering DC to 110GHz — same-day shipping on in-stock items.
No comments:
Post a Comment