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.
Datasheets and Guides
Datasheet (PDF)
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.