What are TNC connectors?

TNC (Threaded Neill-Concelman) connectors are threaded RF connectors commonly used in applications where reliable and secure connections are required. They are similar to BNC connectors but feature a threaded coupling mechanism for added security and stability. TNC connectors are widely used in telecommunications, RF test equipment, and military systems.

TNC connectors are compatible with various types of coaxial cables, each suited for specific applications and environments. Common cables include:

1. RG-58/U:
   • Resistance: 50 ohms
   • Frequency Range: Up to 1 GHz
   • Applications: Versatile and widely used, suitable for short to medium runs in radio antennas, test equipment, and amateur radio.
2. RG-174/U:
   • Resistance: 50 ohms
   • Frequency Range: Up to 3 GHz
   • Applications: Thin and flexible, ideal for space-limited applications like GPS antennas, wireless modules, and portable devices.
3. RG-213/U:
   • Resistance: 50 ohms
   • Frequency Range: Up to 1 GHz
   • Applications: Heavy-duty, designed for high-power applications and longer runs, used in base station antennas, repeater systems, and RF amplifiers.
4. LMR® Series:
   • Resistance: 50 ohms
   • Frequency Range: Varies by type (e.g., LMR-400 up to 6 GHz, LMR-600 up to 6 GHz)
   • Applications: High-performance cables designed for mobile and fixed-site applications, offering low loss and excellent flexibility.
5. Heliax®:
   • Resistance: 50 ohms
   • Frequency Range: Up to 8 GHz
   • Applications: High-performance, low-loss cables for demanding RF applications such as cellular networks and broadcast systems.
6. Semi-Rigid Cable:
   • Resistance: 50 ohms
   • Frequency Range: Up to 18 GHz
   • Applications: Rigid cables used for precise electrical performance and mechanical stability in test fixtures and RF probes.

TNC connectors are used in a variety of applications, including:

• Telecommunications systems
• RF test equipment
• Military communication systems
• Wi-Fi and wireless networks
• Cellular communication
• GPS systems

TNC connectors are designed to support a wide range of wireless communication standards and frequencies. They can operate within frequency bands typically up to 11 GHz, making them suitable for applications such as Wi-Fi, cellular communication, and GPS.

TNC cables can be used for both short and long cable runs, depending on the application and signal requirements. Typical cable runs range from a few feet to several hundred feet or more. The choice of cable and the specific application will determine the optimal cable run length.

TNC connectors are chosen for their:

• Threaded coupling mechanism: Provides added security and stability compared to BNC connectors.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, from telecommunications to military systems.
• Compatibility with various coaxial cables: Supports different types of cables tailored to specific needs.
• Support for multiple frequencies: Capable of operating within various wireless communication frequency bands.
• Weather resistance: When paired with high-performance cables like the LMR® series, they offer good weather resistance, making them suitable for outdoor and harsh environments.

Selecting the right coaxial cable depends on factors such as:

• Application: Determine the specific use case (e.g., radio antennas, GPS systems).
• Signal requirements: Consider the necessary signal integrity and power handling.
• Environmental conditions: Evaluate whether the application is indoors or outdoors, and the potential exposure to harsh environments.
• Budget: Factor in cost considerations while balancing performance requirements.

Choosing the appropriate cable ensures reliable performance and signal integrity for your application.