Non-Magnetic RF Connectors
Low-magnetic RF interconnect solutions for MRI, quantum, cryogenic, superconducting and magnetic-field-sensitive test environments.
How to choose a non-magnetic RF connector
Start from the magnetic environment, then narrow the interface, structure and review information needed for accurate matching.
Where will it be used?
MRI, quantum, cryogenic and superconducting systems may require different material and plating constraints. Define the environment before choosing the interface.
- Application environment and magnetic requirement.
- Temperature or test condition if relevant.
- Known material or plating restrictions.
Which interface fits the structure?
Use SMA for threaded cable-side or equipment ports, SMP for compact push-on PCB / module connections, and SSMP for miniature high-density layouts.
- SMA / SMP / SSMP / custom interface.
- Cable, PCB, panel, adapter or module side.
- Gender, mating side and available envelope.
What should be confirmed before quote?
Non-magnetic connector selection depends on material, plating, mating geometry and RF performance. Drawings help avoid incorrect model matching.
- 2D / 3D drawing, PCB footprint or sample photo.
- Target frequency, quantity and mating condition.
- Final model confirmed by material and application review.
Non-magnetic connector families
Choose the connector family by integration need first. Model numbers and detailed parameters can be confirmed later through the product archive, selection guide or engineering review.
Non-Magnetic SMA Connectors
Threaded RF interface options for cable-side links, equipment ports and non-magnetic RF test paths.
- Best for cable assemblies and instrument-side RF ports.
- Familiar SMA interface for lower integration risk.
- Suitable for MRI, quantum and cryogenic-related RF paths.
Non-Magnetic SMP Connectors
Compact push-on RF interfaces for PCB, module and blind-mate layouts where space, mating behavior and magnetic response all matter.
- Best for compact PCB and module-level RF interconnects.
- Push-on interface supports fast mating and dense layouts.
- Detent and mounting style can be matched by drawing.
Non-Magnetic SSMP Connectors
Miniature non-magnetic interfaces for high-density RF boards and compact modules where SMP is still too large.
- Best for dense boards and miniature RF modules.
- Smaller interface for space-constrained assemblies.
- Gender, retention and clearance confirmed by layout.
What non-magnetic connectors solve
In magnetic-field-sensitive systems, the connector is part of both the RF path and the local material environment.
Key selection factors
- Low magnetic response for sensitive RF assemblies.
- Material and plating reviewed against the magnetic requirement.
- 50 Ω RF continuity for controlled coaxial transition behavior.
- SMA, SMP, SSMP and custom interface support by drawing.
- Frequency, VSWR and mating condition confirmed by model or test data.
Typical applications
- MRI coils, medical imaging hardware and magnetic-sensitive instrumentation.
- Quantum computing control, readout and laboratory test environments.
- Cryogenic RF test paths and low-temperature evaluation setups.
- Superconducting circuits and field-sensitive RF assemblies.
- Magnetic-sensitive RF labs and custom scientific instruments.
What to provide for non-magnetic connector review
A drawing, sample photo or application note helps confirm material, plating, mating geometry and RF performance before quotation.
| Input | Why it matters | Example | Useful format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application environment | Defines magnetic, material and plating constraints. | MRI, quantum, cryogenic, superconducting | Application note or short description |
| Interface & gender | Determines mating compatibility and connector family. | SMA male, SMP plug, SSMP female | Interface name, photo or mating part |
| Structure type | Defines mechanical integration and installation risk. | Cable, PCB mount, panel, adapter | 2D drawing, 3D file or PCB footprint |
| RF target | Confirms frequency range, VSWR target and test expectation. | DC–18 GHz, DC–26.5 GHz, custom target | Frequency range and required quantity |
| Material or magnetic limit | Helps avoid unsuitable body, contact or plating choices. | Non-magnetic, low magnetic response, plating restriction | Requirement note, spec, or internal standard |
Common selection questions
What are non-magnetic RF connectors?
They are RF coaxial interconnects using selected non-ferromagnetic materials and application-specific plating for systems where magnetic disturbance must be controlled.
Where are non-magnetic RF connectors used?
Typical environments include MRI hardware, quantum test setups, cryogenic RF paths, superconducting circuit systems and magnetic-field-sensitive RF labs.
Why do MRI, quantum and cryogenic systems use non-magnetic RF connectors?
These systems may require RF connectors with controlled magnetic response because ferromagnetic materials can disturb local magnetic fields, affect sensitive measurements or create integration risks near superconducting and low-temperature hardware.
How do I choose between SMA, SMP and SSMP?
Use SMA for threaded RF ports and cable-side links, SMP for compact push-on or PCB interfaces, and SSMP for miniature high-density board or module connections.
What information is required for a quote?
Please provide interface, gender, frequency target, structure, application environment, magnetic requirement, drawing file or PCB footprint, and quantity.
Engineering review for non-magnetic RF connector integration
For MRI, quantum, cryogenic, superconducting or magnetic-field-sensitive RF systems, send your drawing and magnetic requirement for material review, interface matching and quotation support.