Overview
IEC 61169-24:2009 is a sectional specification for radio-frequency coaxial connectors with screw coupling (type F), typically used in 75 Ω cable networks. It defines rules and information for preparing Detail Specifications (DS) for F‑type connectors, including interface dimensions, mechanical gauging, mandatory test selections (from IEC 61169-1), quality assessment procedures, and recommended performance characteristics. This second edition updates drawings to permit frequency extension up to 3 GHz.
Key topics and requirements
- Interface dimensions and tolerances: Precise male and female physical dimensions for indoor connectors (reference tables and figures), reference planes and thread details to ensure interchangeability.
- Mechanical gauges and acceptance tests: Gauging procedures for the female centre conductor using precision test pins; tests measure insertion and withdrawal forces to verify mechanical integrity and retention.
- Maximum insertion force: 20 N
- Minimum withdrawal (retention) force: 0.3 N
- Electrical acceptance criteria:
- After mechanical tests, centre contact resistance ≤ 10 mΩ when remated with a 0.635 mm centre conductor at 1 A test current.
- Reference plane contact must be achieved by mating faces, not by threads alone.
- Quality assessment & test schedules: Guidance on acceptance and periodic tests, ratings and characteristics, environmental characteristics (outdoor sockets), inspection and qualification procedures.
- Preparation of Detail Specifications (DS): Instructions, a blank DS pro‑forma, and selection guidance for tests, severities and marking/ordering information.
- Environmental guidance: Annex A provides recommended dimensions and considerations for outdoor sockets; normative references include IEC 61169-1 and EN 60068-2-52 (salt mist cyclic).
Applications and who uses this standard
IEC 61169-24 is essential for:
- Connector manufacturers creating or certifying F‑type products for 75 Ω cable networks (TV distribution, broadband cable, satellite IF).
- Test laboratories performing mechanical and electrical acceptance tests and issuing conformity reports.
- Procurement and specification engineers preparing Detail Specifications for components in cable networks.
- Quality and compliance teams ensuring products meet international interchangeability, electrical performance and environmental requirements.
- System integrators and operators assessing connector compatibility for installations up to 3 GHz.
Related standards
- IEC 61169-1: Generic specification - general requirements and measuring methods (source for mandatory test selections).
- EN 60068-2-52: Environmental testing - salt mist cyclic (relevant for outdoor connector environmental tests).
- Other parts of the IEC 61169 series cover different RF connector families and complementary requirements.
Keywords: IEC 61169-24, F-type connector, 75 Ω coaxial, RF connectors standard, interface dimensions, mechanical gauging, contact resistance, insertion force, 3 GHz.
Open preview (PDF)Radio-frequency connectors - Part 24: Sectional specification - Radio frequency coaxial connectors with screw coupling, typically for use in 75 Ω cable networks (type F)
