SMA Termination - 50 Ohm Male and Female
L-com SMA terminations deliver controlled 50 Ohm loads for RF and microwave systems across telecommunications, test and measurement, and wireless infrastructure applications. Available in male and female configurations, these connectorized loads terminate unused ports in coaxial systems operating up to 1 GHz. Gold-plated brass construction ensures consistent impedance matching for amplifier testing, WLAN deployments, and laboratory environments.
For a complete range of RF load termination solutions beyond High Performance Type N Plug 0–6 GHz 50 Ohm Terminators, explore our comprehensive Coax Terminators - SMA, BNC, Type-N & Type-F category, which includes SMA, BNC, Type N, and Type F terminations designed for impedance matching, signal integrity, and stable performance across RF and microwave systems.
Related Categories:
- High Performance SMA Plug 0-6 GHz 50 Ohm Terminator
- High Performance RP-SMA Plug 0-6 GHz 50 Ohm Terminator
- BNC Terminators - Male and Female 50 &75 Ohm
- Coaxial Terminators with Chain - Various Impedances and Interfaces
- BNC Terminators - Male and Female Interfaces with Ground Cable
FAQs
What are SMA terminations used for in RF systems?
SMA terminations provide controlled 50 Ohm loads that terminate unused ports in RF and microwave systems using SMA interfaces. These connectorized RF load terminations prevent signal reflections in 50 Ohm coaxial systems by absorbing RF energy. Engineers commonly use these terminators during amplifier testing to isolate signal paths, in WLAN systems to maintain proper impedance matching, and throughout laboratory setups for general-purpose RF signal conditioning applications. The metal film resistor and RF load design support stable impedance matching across the operating frequency range up to 1 GHz.
How do 50 Ohm SMA terminations prevent signal reflections?
The 50 Ohm resistive design within SMA terminations matches the characteristic impedance of standard coaxial transmission lines, eliminating mismatches that cause signal reflections. These terminators absorb incident RF power while presenting the correct impedance to the system. The PTFE dielectric supports signal integrity across the operating frequency range, while gold-plated contacts maintain consistent electrical performance. Maximum VSWR ratings of up to 1.5 for female and 2.0 for male versions are maintained within specified operating conditions, ensuring proper impedance matching in both laboratory and field environments.
Can SMA terminations handle high-power RF applications?
SMA terminations support continuous-wave input power levels up to 0.25 watts, suitable for signal-level RF applications including testing and signal conditioning. The metal film resistor design converts RF energy to heat within the compact form factor measuring approximately 0.8 inches in length and 0.34 inches in diameter. These terminators are designed for general-purpose RF signal conditioning applications where proper impedance matching and port termination are required. The 50 Ohm load design maintains stable performance within the specified power rating for amplifier testing, WLAN systems, and laboratory RF circuit applications.
Why do SMA terminations use gold-plated brass construction?
The brass body with gold plating and gold-plated contacts support consistent electrical performance and corrosion resistance in SMA terminations. This construction ensures reliable impedance matching and maintains stable contact resistance across various environmental conditions. The gold plating provides superior protection in both controlled laboratory settings and field-deployed installations.
What industries and applications use SMA terminations?
SMA terminations are commonly used in amplifier testing, WLAN systems, and general coaxial termination applications across multiple industries. Telecommunications providers use these terminators to cap unused ports on RF equipment, ensuring proper impedance throughout systems. Test and measurement facilities deploy SMA terminations during equipment characterization and network testing procedures. These connectorized RF load terminations support reliable termination of SMA-equipped RF circuits in laboratory and field environments.
How does the green color-coded cap benefit SMA termination use?
The green color-coded cap helps identify the 50 Ohm impedance value during installation and maintenance activities. This visual identification supports proper selection when working with multiple impedance ratings in complex RF systems. Combined with the compact form factor and straight body style, this feature enhances usability in both laboratory test setups and field-deployed coaxial systems where multiple terminations may be present.
What compatibility features do SMA terminations provide?
SMA terminations feature compatibility with RG58 coaxial cable systems and SMA interfaces commonly found in RF and microwave equipment. The straight body style measuring approximately 0.8 inches in length and 0.34 inches in diameter allows installation in space-constrained environments. These terminators use standard SMA threading and are available in male and female configurations to mate with corresponding connector genders. The PTFE dielectric and brass body with gold plating ensure mechanical and electrical compatibility across the operating frequency range up to 1 GHz for reliable termination in 50 Ohm coaxial systems.
Need assistance selecting the right SMA termination for your RF system or coaxial termination project? Our engineering team provides expert technical guidance on connector configurations, impedance requirements, VSWR specifications, and power handling for your specific application requirements.
Contact Sales: Sales@L-com.com
Product Technical Support: techsupportrf@infiniteelectronics.com
