Discover the future of RF connections with MBX and MCX connectors. We explain how these specialized, miniature components solve the challenges of board-to-board and device-level connections in cutting-edge technology.
MBX Connectors
MBX connectors are push-on, small RF coaxial connectors made especially for electronic equipment’s board-to-board and board-to-module connections. Their main function is to supply dependable, blind-mateable connections in multi-board, high-density applications where exact alignment can be difficult.
The MMBX and MFBX connectors are members of the MBX connector family, which was developed to solve the problem of joining closely spaced printed circuit boards (PCBs) in contemporary communication systems.
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MBX Connectors Key Features and Technical Data
Impedance: 50 ohms is the impedance of MBX connectors.
Frequency Range: They usually run between DC and 6 GHz, while some models can handle up to 8 GHz.
Mechanical Misalignment Tolerance: This is an important feature because MBX connectors can be misaligned axially (usually up to ±1.2 mm) and radially (usually up to ±1.0 mm) due to its “floating” nature. This feature makes assembly easier and enables PCBs and other components to have larger manufacturing tolerances. The sources regularly assert that MBX can retain exceptional electrical performance while managing extremely high tolerance correction between boards.
Blind Mateability: Because of their architecture, connections can be made without visual confirmation, which is crucial for intricate stacked-board assemblies.
High Power Handling: High-power radio modules and other demanding applications can benefit from the high power levels that certain MBX connectors can handle despite their small size.
Applications:
Because of these characteristics, MBX connections are mostly utilized in telecommunications infrastructure, such as test equipment, antennas, and cellular base stations, where high durability and high-density packing are essential.
MBX Connectors Product Variants and Packaging
Several MBX coaxial connector types are displayed by the sources, including:
- Edge mount PCB jack (female)
- Right angle cable plug (male)
- Straight bulkhead cable jack (female)
- Straight bulkhead receptacle, jack (female)
- Straight cable plug (male)
- Straight PCB jack (female)
There are various packaging possibilities for these connectors, including bulk, single, and tape and reel packing.
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MCX Connectors
Micro Coaxial (MCX) RF coaxial connections were invented in the 1980s. “MCX” stands for “Micro-CoaX,” or “micro coaxial connector.” Huber and Suhner were the ones who first created these connectors under the brand name MCX.
In the cellular phone business, where size, cost, and performance are critical factors, they were created to satisfy the increasing demand for high-quality, affordable, and compact connectors. When weight and physical space are restricted and an easy-to-connect solution is required, MCX connections address a market demand.
MCX Connectors Key Features and Specifications
Size: Compact size is a well-known characteristic of MCX connections. When compared to SMB (Sub-Miniature B) connectors, they are around 30% smaller in both size and weight. Their external diameter is roughly 3.6 mm (0.14 inches), but their interior contact and insulator dimensions are identical to those of SMB connections.
Impedance: They come in varieties that are 50 ohm and 75 ohm. Video transmissions usually use the 75-ohm variant, although data and radio frequency applications use the 50-ohm version more frequently.
Frequency Range: Broadband functionality is available from DC to 6 GHz with MCX connections. They are therefore appropriate for a wide range of wireless communication uses.
Mating Mechanism: Their rapid, easy, and secure snap-on/snap-off coupling is vital. A threaded connection is not necessary with this push-on interface, which speeds up assembly and installation. Full rotation is made possible by the snap-lock construction. Their rated lifespan is 500 mating cycles.
Cable Accommodation: Their versatility in design and production allows them to support a large variety of tiny RG flexible coaxial cables, including semi-rigid cable.
Electrical Performance: Broadband performance with minimal reflection and outstanding VSWR performance are among the extremely good electrical performance offered by MCX connectors.
Materials: Usually, the contact surfaces have a gold plating.
Standards Compliance: The EU standard CECC 22000 covers MCX connectors, which meet the European CECC 22220 specification.
Availability: Printed circuit board (PCB) and cable connectors are among the wide variety of connectors that are available. Straight and 90° plugs for semi-rigid and flexible wire are also available, as are panel and PCB-mount jacks (female).
Benefits:
Because of their compact size, strong performance, and simple snap-on connection, MCX connectors are widely used in contemporary electronic systems and gadgets. In situations where weight and physical space are restricted, they are valued.
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MCX Connectors Common Applications
MCX connections are extensively utilized in many different fields, such as:
Wireless Communication: WiFi antennae, laptop and tablet cellular modems, GPS receivers, and telecom devices.
Consumer Electronics: Compact wireless modules, such as digital TV receivers and drones.
Automotive: Telematics and vehicle navigation systems.
PC/LAN: For connecting external antennas to desktops and laptops, USB DVB-T tuners are included.
Test and Measurement: Used in lab settings to test temporary connections and tiny modules. Software-defined oscilloscopes and signal generators for low-frequency applications where compact size is crucial also employ them.
Other Applications: Radios, wireless/network antennas, head end devices, base stations, and data telemetry.
MCX vs. Other Connectors
SMB Connector: A rapid snap-on interface, an inner contact, and an overlapping dielectric insulator structure are all features that MCX connectors share with SMB connectors. Although their outer diameter is around 30% smaller than the SMB’s, they have the same inner contact and insulator dimensions.
MMCX Connector: Even smaller than the MCX, the MMCX (Micro-Miniature Coaxial) connector has a snap-on mechanism that is comparable to that of the MCX. Their main distinction, despite the fact that they have many things in common, is size; MMCX connectors are much thinner and enable even higher package densities. Operating frequencies for MCX and MMCX are DC to 6 GHz.
4.3-10 Connectors: Although they are also listed in the sources, 4.3-10 connectors are a different series that have a sturdy design that is comparable to that of 7-16 connectors but lighter and smaller. These devices, which have silver-plated contacts and White Bronze-plated casings, offer steady PIM performance and are IP67 suitable for outdoor use.
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