The SMA standard has been around since the 1960s. They are small connectors that are connected to each other by means of screw thread. The SMA standard (SubMiniature Version A) was devised because there was a need for small connectors to connect coaxial cables for high-frequency signals in an easy, solid and reliable way. SMA connectors have long been used to connect antenna cables together. In the late 1990s they were widely used in coaxial computer networks. Nowadays, a new application has been found and they are widely used to increase the range of WiFi networks.
Difference with the F-connector
The SMA connector is often confused with the F connector. It is very similar and is used for approximately the same applications. But the two types of connectors differ by 2 millimeters in size and cannot be connected directly to each other. There is also a difference in quality. F-connectors are known for not always providing good shielding, causing radiation. The strain relief of the connectors is also regularly under fire. Although both connectors do not fit directly together, adapters are available to connect F-connectors to an SMA connector.
Different types of SMA connectors
There are four different SMA connectors, consisting of two pairs: two male and two female. The pairs are distinguished by their polarity. The screw thread is on the outside of all female plugs. With the e-male connector, the thread is always on the inside. Nevertheless, the polarities are not interchangeable. This is because a standard male connector has a pin; a male with reverse polarity has an input for a pin. With the female connectors this is a mirror image. That is also the reason they are not interchangeable. A standard male only fits a standard female and a male with reverse polarity only fits a female with reverse polarity.
SMA cable: many versions
There is a wide variety of connectors and adapters with an SMA cable. This is partly because the SMA connectors of different polarities are not interchangeable. This means there is a cable from every type of SMA connector to every other type of SMA connector. There is even a cable from standard male to standard male. The total number of different SMA cables is therefore already 16. In addition, there are many cables and adapters that enable connections to other standards for high-frequency technology.
Technical background of these cables
High-frequency signals must be properly shielded to prevent interference. Transitions at connectors are usually weak spots in such connections. That is why these connectors are always made of metal, often even with a contact surface made of precious metal, such as gold or silver. These high-quality metals will not rust. This prevents these connections from deteriorating in the long term due to corrosion. A male and a female SMA connector are screwed together. The construction of the connector guarantees good shielding. The impedance of an SMA cable is 50 ohms. These cables are suitable for high-frequency connections with a frequency up to 18 GHz.
SMA cable in the webshop
You can easily order these cables in the Mediawinkel.eu webshop. Mediawinkel.eu specializes in finding solutions that can increase the range of WiFi. This means you can quickly find the right cable such as the SMA, but also the splitter for your situation. There are SMA cables from well-known brands, but also specialized products that are sometimes less well known. Thanks to great discount promotions from Mediawinkel.eu, you can benefit from great offers. If you are unable to find the right SMA cable yourself, you can contact our customer service. Then you will quickly have the SMA cable you are looking for.
