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High-performance RF coaxial cable assemblies.

RF Solutions

RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies for High-Reliability Applications

Optimized for high-frequency performance, low passive intermodulation (PIM) and phase stability, Molex RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies provide flexible and customizable solutions designed for seamless connector compatibility and durable, reliable operation in harsh environments. These standard cable assemblies support evolving technologies in applications ranging from 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) networks to radar, aerospace and defense systems.

Frequency Impedance Interface
DC to 22 GHz 50 and 75 Ohms Snap-on, threaded, push/pull coupling

I-PEX MHF

SMA to I-PEX MHF I LK RF coaxial cable assembly.

MMCX

MMCX RF coaxial cable assembly.

MMCX PoC

MMCX Power-over-Coaxial pigtail RF cable assembly.

Temp-Flex Coaxial Cable Assemblies

2.92mm RF coaxial cable assembly with Temp-Flex cable.

Cardinal Assemblies

Cardinal Test SMA to SMA RF coaxial cable assembly with armored MXR 100 cable.

Features and Benefits


RF system engineers face a variety of demands, from high-frequency signal integrity and performance requirements to durability in harsh aerospace, defense, industrial or medical conditions. Connectivity solutions must be versatile enough to allow seamless integration into complex systems, designed for easy installation and maintenance, and reliable enough to withstand harsh conditions.

With RF coaxial cable assemblies engineered for low-loss, low-voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) and low-PIM performance at high frequencies, designers can meet the demands of modern 5G, radar and aerospace communications systems. Ruggedized designs, with locking features and environmental sealing, help improve reliability and extend the product lifespan. Versatile connector and cable options that streamline integration and installation work also help reduce costs and accelerate deployments.

With a wide range of RF coaxial cable assembly options, Molex provides customizable solutions that enhance performance while expediting installation and upgrading work. Cables are available with advanced overmolding and IP67/IP68 waterproofing options, as well as tailored cable types, improving reliability in environments subject to moisture, abrasion, radiation, corrosion and extreme temperatures. Flexible, build-to-print assemblies, including patented locking designs and multiport/ganged configurations, are offered with wide connector compatibility to simplify system integration and support evolving technologies.

Signal Integrity and High-Frequency Performance

High-frequency applications require consistent signal integrity with minimal loss, low reflection and phase stability. Molex cable assemblies are engineered for ultra-low loss and a low VSWR for frequencies up to 110 GHz, with low PIM and precision impedance tolerances as tight as ±1 Ohm. This ensures clean, reliable signal transmission for 5G, radar, aerospace and other advanced RF systems.

Cardinal Flex RF coaxial cable assembly with MX 601 cable.

Durability in Harsh Environments

Ideal for aerospace, defense, medical and industrial applications subject to extreme temperatures, moisture, vibration, abrasion and corrosion, Molex RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies provide dependable operation and reduce maintenance costs. Robust designs offering IP67/IP68-rated sealing, ruggedized components resistant to radiation and corrosion, and vibration-resistant locking features help prevent failures in essential systems.

Sealed SMA to right-angle MMCX RF coaxial cable assembly.

Compatibility and Customization for Complex Systems

Complex systems and unique applications require versatile, customizable connectivity solutions to achieve seamless integration. Molex offers flexible build-to-print RF coaxial cable solutions featuring various connectors, cable types and custom lengths. Incorporating high-precision phase matching and tailored cable harnessing, this system integrates smoothly with legacy and next-generation technologies.

MMCX Right-Angle Plug to MCX Straight Bulkhead Jack RP on RG-178 Cable.

Operational Efficiency and Ease of Installation

To help simplify installation and minimize downtime, Molex provides ready-to-install cable assemblies optimized for easy handling and accelerated deployment in demanding operational environments. These ruggedized RF coaxial cable assemblies resist damage and withstand operational stresses, reducing maintenance requirements and the total cost of ownership.

Right-angle MCX to I-PEX MHF I LK RF coaxial cable assembly.

Shortens lead times
Worldwide engineering expertise and scalable manufacturing capabilities help deliver tailored RF coaxial cable assembly solutions and reduce supply chain risks.

Streamlines product development
Collaborative engineering support from Molex helps customers design new solutions or enhance existing ones, easing engineering challenges.

Offers unmatched customization options
A wide variety of connector types, including patented locking designs; coaxial cable styles, including flexible, semi-rigid and corrugated; and configurations, such as multiport/ganged assemblies, help meet unique application needs and reduce design constraints.

Provides durability in harsh conditions
Molex RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies feature IP67/IP68-rated sealing, corrosion-resistant materials and ruggedized construction, ensuring reliability and reducing the chance of failure in extreme temperatures, moisture, vibration and radiation.

Meets high-performance requirements
These RF coaxial cables are engineered for ultra-low insertion loss and phase stability, making them ideal for high-frequency RF, aerospace, and test-and-measurement systems.

Reduces installation time and maintenance costs
Flexible RF coaxial cables and robust connectors facilitate easier routing in tight spaces and complex systems, addressing system integration challenges.

Applications by Industry


In-flight infotainment systems

Controller units
Data collection drones
Embedded vision systems
GPS systems
Seed sprayers

Camera systems
Driver monitoring systems
Full-display rearview mirrors

Vehicle charging stations

Communication systems
Electronic warfare systems
Navigation systems
Radar systems
Satellites
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)

Computed tomography (CT) scan equipment
Imaging equipment
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines
Medical devices
Robotic surgery
Test-and-measurement equipment
Ultrasound equipment

Wireless devices

Network infrastructure equipment

5G applications
Base stations
Broadband equipment
IoT applications
Network systems
Satellite and test equipment
Telecom infrastructures
Testing and instrumentation equipment
Wireless antennas
Wireless base stations
Wireless communication systems
Wireless local area networks (WLANs)

Cellular base stations

This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.

Frequently Asked Questions


What are RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies?

RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies from Molex are high-performance, highly reliable and preassembled cables designed for transmitting RF signals with minimal loss and interference. They offer a variety of cable and connector types, including ruggedized and sealed options to enable use in harsh conditions. 

How does Molex ensure superior signal integrity for high-frequency RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies?

Molex RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies are engineered to provide precise impedance control and excellent signal integrity across a wide frequency range from DC to 110 GHz. The cable design minimizes insertion loss and maintains low VSWR, reducing signal reflections and distortion. These high-frequency cables also feature ultra-low PIM to prevent intermodulation distortion, a critical factor for cellular, radar and other high-performance RF applications.

What materials and designs enable Molex RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies to withstand harsh environmental conditions?

These cable assemblies offer ruggedized connectors with IP67/IP68-rated, waterproof and dustproof sealing. Materials are selected and tested for resistance to extreme temperatures, abrasion, radiation and corrosive environments such as those subject to salt spray or chemicals. These designs maintain consistent electrical performance and mechanical integrity in high-vibration and outdoor applications including UAV, aerospace, defense, satellite and medical-imaging equipment.

How does Molex support compatibility and customization for complex RF system integration?

Molex offers build-to-print and fully customizable cable assemblies. Available cable types include flexible, semi-rigid, corrugated, micro-coax (such as LMR alternatives and MLX), shielded RF cables and armored cables ranging from 0.81 to 30.00mm in diameter. Connector options include standard and patented locking designs such as I-PEX MHF connectors; right-angle, straight and reverse polarity; and multiport/ganged configurations. Capabilities include precise impedance matching and the phase stability necessary for system calibration and compatibility with both legacy and next-generation platforms in 5G, IoT, radar and telecommunications applications.  

What quality assurance and testing protocols does Molex utilize to validate RF Coaxial Cable Assembly performance?

Each Molex cable assembly undergoes comprehensive testing for insertion loss, VSWR across the frequency band, mechanical durability (vibration, abrasion and environmental exposure) and shielding effectiveness to protect against electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference. These rigorous protocols ensure reproducible, reliable results for sensitive test-and-measurement applications and high-power RF uses. Testing reports are available on request.

How do Molex RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies address installation challenges while maintaining reliability?

Molex cable assemblies are engineered for operational ease, with flexible and conformable cable options that simplify routing in tight spaces. Robust connectors protect against installation damage and environmental stress. Global engineering support assists with design and prototyping, reducing lead times and labor costs for complex installations.