Southwest Microwave End Launch Connectors | SMA, 2.92mm, 2.4mm, 1.85mm up to 125GHz
Southwest Microwave End Launch Connectors Overview
High Frequency RF PCB Connectors up to 125GHz
End launch connectors, also known as edge mount RF connectors, are critical components for high-frequency signal transmission between coaxial cables and printed circuit boards (PCB). Among leading manufacturers, Southwest Microwave is widely recognized for its precision-engineered connectors designed for microwave and millimeter-wave applications.
These connectors provide excellent signal integrity, low insertion loss, and consistent impedance performance across a wide frequency range — from DC up to 125GHz.
What is an End Launch Connector?
An end launch connector is mounted at the edge of a PCB, allowing a direct transition from a coaxial interface to a planar transmission line such as:
Microstrip
Grounded Coplanar Waveguide (GCPW)
This design minimizes signal discontinuities and ensures optimal RF performance, making it ideal for:
RF test boards
High-speed digital systems
Microwave and millimeter-wave circuits
Aerospace and radar systems
Product Series Overview (By Frequency Range)
Southwest Microwave offers a complete portfolio of end launch connectors categorized by frequency capability and interface type:
| Series | Frequency Range | Interface Type | Typical Models |
| SMA / SuperSMA | DC – 27GHz | SMA | 292-04A-6, 292-07A-9 |
| 2.92mm (K) | DC – 40GHz | K Connector | 1092-01A-9, 1093-03A-6 |
| 2.4mm | DC – 50GHz | 2.4mm | 1492-02A-9, 1493-01A-6 |
| 1.85mm (V) | DC – 67GHz | V Connector | 1892-04A-6, 1893-03A-6 |
| 1.0mm | DC – 125GHz | 1.0mm | 2492-04A-6 |
These connectors are designed to support high-frequency applications with minimal reflection and maximum reliability.
Typical Applications
End launch RF connectors are widely used in:
Telecommunications
5G infrastructure
High-speed data transmission
Automotive Radar
ADAS systems
77GHz radar modules
Aerospace & Defense
Radar systems
Electronic warfare
Test & Measurement
Vector network analyzers (VNA)
RF test fixtures
Research & Development
Millimeter-wave experiments
Advanced communication systems
How to Choose the Right End Launch Connector
When selecting an end launch connector, consider the following factors:
Frequency Requirement
Up to 27GHz → SMA
Up to 40GHz → 2.92mm
Up to 50GHz → 2.4mm
Up to 67GHz → 1.85mm
Up to 125GHz → 1.0mm
PCB Thickness
Ensure compatibility with your board thickness and transmission line design.
Interface Type
Choose between male (plug) or female (jack) depending on system requirements.
Application Environment
Consider mechanical stress, mating cycles, and environmental conditions.
Core is one of the agents of SOUTHWEST Microwave. If you need to know more about and purchase Southwest products, you can consult CORE customer service or fill out the RFQ.
