QMA and QN connectors are quick-connect

RF connector A coaxial RF connector (radio frequency connector) is an electrical connector designed to work at radio frequencies in the multi-megahertz range. RF connectors are typically used with coaxial cables and are designed to maintain the shielding t ...

s that were designed to replace the widely used SMA (used in low power transmissions; DC–18 GHz) and Type N (used in medium power transmissions; DC–11 GHz) connectors. The connectors have been available since 2003. The connector family was created by the Quick Lock Formula Alliance, which consists of Huber+Suhner, Radiall,

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, and

Amphenol Amphenol Corporation is a major producer of electronic and fiber optic connectors, cable and interconnect systems such as coaxial cables. Amphenol is a portmanteau from the corporation's original name, American Phenolic Corp. History Amphenol ...

. QMA and QN connectors are the quick lock version of SMA and N connectors. This design can save much handling time because it allows quick mating and demating without tools. Due to the smaller overall size, it can save the operating space and allows for high density arrangement. To make cable routing easier, it can rotate 360 degrees after installation.

Design goals

The design had three main goals: #replace the traditional threaded connection of SMA and N with a snap-fastening to allow for faster mating and de-mating and eliminate the need for a torque wrench #decrease the overall size of the connector while still matching the electronic performance and reliability of their extremely popular predecessors #allow for 360° cable rotation after installation in order to make cable routing easier.

Applications

Common applications for the QMA and QN connectors include

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s, and various defense applications. Since an industry standard for quick-locking SMA and N connectors has yet to be established, varying designs are currently being manufactured.

References

QMA Coaxial Connectors

Amphenol QMA Connector SeriesTyco Snap-On SMA Series of RF ConnectorsRadiall QMA ConnectorsMolex QMA ConnectorsTimes Microwave QMA ConnectorsRF Industries QMA Connectors
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