CONSMA005-R178
AI

The **CONSMA005-R178** is a high-quality, precision RF (Radio Frequency) connector manufactured by **Linx Technologies** (now part of TE Connectivity). It is specifically designed for mounting on thin-walled enclosures or bulkheads.
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### 1. Key Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the core electrical and physical characteristics of the component:
| Feature | Specification |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Connector Type** | SMA Female (Jack) |
| **Mounting Style** | Bulkhead Mount (Rear Mount) |
| **Termination** | Solder Pot / Solder Cup |
| **Impedance** | 50 $\Omega$ (Ohms) |
| **Frequency Range** | 0 to 18 GHz |
| **Body Material** | Gold-plated Brass |
| **Dielectric** | PTFE (Teflon) |
| **Fastening Type** | Threaded (1/4"-36 UNS-2A) |
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### 2. Functional Design Parts
The CONSMA005-R178 consists of several critical sub-components that ensure signal integrity:
1. **Outer Body:** Made of gold-plated brass to provide excellent corrosion resistance and a low-resistance electrical path to ground.
2. **Center Contact:** A gold-plated female socket designed to receive a standard SMA male pin. It features a "solder cup" on the rear for manual wire attachment.
3. **Insulator:** High-grade PTFE provides stable insulation and maintains the 50-ohm characteristic impedance across high frequencies.
4. **Hardware Kit:** Usually includes a **hex nut** and a **lock washer** to secure the connector to a panel or chassis.
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### 3. Common Applications
Due to its robust build and frequency range, this part is used in:
* **Wireless Infrastructure:** WiFi routers, base stations, and cellular gateways.
* **Enclosure Transitions:** Passing an RF signal from internal circuitry (via a wire) to an external antenna.
* **Test Equipment:** Providing a durable interface for signal generators or oscilloscopes.
* **IoT Devices:** Connecting external high-gain antennas to small-form-factor sensor nodes.
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### 4. Installation Considerations
* **Panel Thickness:** The "R178" designation often refers to the specific dimensions or the compatible cable/panel thickness; ensure your enclosure wall is thin enough for the threads to clear for the nut.
* **Soldering:** Use a fine-tip soldering iron. Excessive heat can melt the PTFE dielectric, causing the center pin to shift and ruining the 50-ohm impedance.
* **Torque:** Do not over-tighten the mounting nut, as this can deform the chassis or strip the fine 1/4"-36 threads.
- ⤷
What is the maximum panel thickness supported by the CONSMA005-R178?
- ⤷ How does gold plating affect the RF performance compared to nickel plating?
- ⤷ Is this connector compatible with RG-178 coaxial cables?