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Space Grade RF Coaxial Components: Key Benefits and Leading Manufacturers

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Introduction

Space grade RF coaxial components are engineered to meet the stringent demands of satellite communications, deep space missions and high reliability aerospace systems. These components include interconnects, cables, adapters, connectors and terminations. They are built to withstand extreme temperature variations, vibration, radiation and vacuum conditions. Let us explore key benefits of space grade RF coaxial components and highlight leading manufacturers.

Space qualified components

Following specifications should be met by components to be used for space applications.

  1. Components must withstand ionizing radiation.
  2. Components should operate over extreme temperature variations from intense heat to deep cold (usually from -55 degreeC to +125 degreeC)
  3. In vacuum of space, materials can outgas which releases volatile substances that may contaminate sensitive equipment. Components are selected and tested which can minimize outgassing and adhers to ASTM E-495 standard and similar ones.
  4. Components should withstand significant vibration and shock.
  5. Components must meet quality assurance requirements as per AS9100 and IPC standards.
  6. Component must meet space qualification requirements mentioned in standards such as MIL-PRF-38534 for military applications or ESCC standards for European space missions.

Advantages

Following are some of the benefits of space qualified components.

  • Components exhibit higher reliability which reduces risk of mission failure due to component malfunction.
  • Withstands harsh conditions which extends operation life of satellites and spacecrafts.
  • Components are quality tested which assures mission success and safeguards huge amount of investments.
  • Space qualified components facilitate easy approval for space missions.
  • Although these components are expensive, overall mission cost is less due to reduction in repairs or replacements.

Top manufacturers

ManufacturersProducts
RadiallOffers comprehensive range of space qualified components, including coaxial connectors (e.g., SMA, TNC, SMP), microwave and rf components, cable assemblies and rf switches. Products are available for frequencies up to Ka band.
Times Microwave SystemsRenowned for their high-performance RF coaxial cables and assemblies tailored for space applications, Times Microwave offers products that endure extreme temperatures, radiation, and mechanical stress.
PasternackCompany offers a wide array of high reliability, COTS grade RF components and cable assemblies. They are suitable for both terrestrial and space applications as they withstand extreme environmental conditions.
MegaPhaseManufactures cable assemblies suitable for space, military and commercial applications up to 110 GHz.
DucommunThe company designs and manufactures coaxial SPDT and transfer switches for space and launch applications. Operate up to 18 GHz and withstand temperature from -55 to 100 degreeC.
Smiths Interconnectoffers an expanded range of coaxial coupler components for LEO, MEO and GEO payloads.
CoaxicomManufactures custom and standard RF coaxial cable connectors and assemblies.
SL Test LinxSpecializes in the design and manufacturing of space qualified RF coaxial connectors and components.

Summary

When it comes to mission critical space applications, choosing the right RF coaxial components is essential for ensuring performance, reliability and long term durability. Space grade RF components and solutions offer superior shielding, low insertion loss and rugged construction designed to operate flawlessly in some of the most demanding environments.