Overview
IEC 61169-38:2008 is a sectional specification in the IEC 61169 series covering radio-frequency coaxial connectors, model TMA (slide‑in, rack and panel applications). It establishes requirements and a pro forma detail specification for 50 Ω TMA connectors used with RF cables or microstrip in microwave systems. The standard addresses mechanical dimensions, gauging, performance recommendations and test/inspection procedures for connectors usable up to at least 6 GHz.
Key Topics
- Connector definition and scope: Series TMA slide‑in connectors for blind‑entry, mid‑power applications in rack and panel assemblies.
- Mating face dimensions: Prescribed dimensional tolerances for pin‑centre and socket‑centre mating faces (general connectors Grade 2 and standard test connectors Grade 0).
- Gauging and measurement: Gauge designs and sizing procedures for outer and inner contacts, including specified gauge pins and retention tests.
- Mechanical mounting: Guidance on connector mounting in modules and panels, including radial and axial misalignment allowances for rigid and float mounts.
- Quality assessment & tests: Test schedules, inspection requirements and selected tests from QC 220000 (IEC 61169‑1) with acceptance and periodic test tables; assessment levels M and H are covered.
- Detail specification pro forma: Instructions and a blank detail specification template to prepare product‑specific documents (identification, performance, marking, test selections, severities).
- Reference materials: Figures and tables for dimensions, gauges and test connector constructions; normative references to IEC 61169‑1 and IEC QC registers.
Applications
IEC 61169-38 is intended for practical use where reliable RF interconnection is critical:
- Telecommunications base stations and rack‑mounted RF equipment
- Microwave test and measurement instrumentation
- Broadcast and studio rack systems
- Aerospace, defense and industrial RF modules employing mid‑power, blind‑entry coaxial connections
- PCB/microstrip interfaces where a 50 Ω slide‑in connector is required (up to ~6 GHz)
Who should use this standard
- RF connector manufacturers preparing detail specifications and product drawings
- Design engineers specifying mechanical and electrical mating interfaces
- Quality and test engineers implementing acceptance and periodic test regimes
- Procurement and compliance teams requiring standardized product requirements
- Test laboratories performing dimensional gauging and conformance testing
Related Standards (if applicable)
- IEC 61169‑1: Generic specification - general requirements and measuring methods
- Other parts of the IEC 61169 series for different connector types and impedances
- IEC QC 220000 register and quality/conformance procedures
Keywords: IEC 61169-38, TMA connector, radio-frequency connectors, coaxial connectors, 50 Ω, slide‑in, rack and panel, 6 GHz, mating face dimensions, gauging, quality assessment.
Open preview (PDF)Radio-frequency connectors - Part 38: Sectional specification - Radio frequency coaxial connectors model, slide-in (rack and panel applications) - Characteristic impedance 50 Ω (type TMA) - 50 Ω applications
