Magnetic RF Connectors – This year’s IMS in Boston focused on high-frequency measurements, the latest technologies, and the right tools for reliable measurements in microwave, millimeter-wave, and optical frequencies. Aaronia AG impressed visitors with its test and measurement equipment and accessories. Among other things, the new magnetic RF connectors attracted particular attention.
Over 9,000 visitors attended the IMS Microwave Symposium to learn about the latest developments and trends in high-frequency technology. In Hall A, the Aaronia booth was a true crowd-pleaser.
On the one hand, the extremely fast and customizable USB-based real-time spectrum analyzers of the SPECTRAN® series, with sweep speeds of 3 THz, once again captivated visitors. But the real star this year was the high-end test and measurement equipment made in Germany.
Simple Measurement Configurations
One challenge is quickly adapting existing setups to new specifications. The adapter and calibration sets showcased at IMS proved particularly effective in this regard. “Requirements for a measurement setup often change within a very short time. In such cases, adapting or reconfiguring the setup must be done very quickly. We meet this requirement with our new complete sets,” explains Peter May, Technical Director at Aaronia AG. “Each set includes adapters in male/male, male/female, and female/female configurations, as well as pairs of test leads for flexible connections. This allows users to establish the appropriate connection within the respective series. Furthermore, the adapters can also be used as connectors to the next series. The practical, clearly organized arrangement of all parts in a sturdy case also helps in this regard.” Also included are dial gauge-based test fixtures. “With these,” adds May, “the technician can check at any time whether the cable is still in good condition or whether, for example, the center conductor in the adapter is still precisely in the center of the connection.”
The adapter and calibration sets are available individually or as a complete set for the 3.5 mm, 2.92 mm, 2.4 mm, 1.85 mm, 1 mm, and waveguide connector series.
connections
Fault-Free RF Connections
The innovative magnetic connectors caused quite a stir. “In measurement practice, connectors in particular are subject to enormous wear and tear,” says Peter May. “At the same time, this component is generally given little attention. After all, it’s just a connector, and technicians—whether in the lab or in the field—don’t always handle their cables gently. This leads to measurement errors, such as those caused by connections that are too loose. Defective measuring instruments caused by connections tightened too tightly with the wrong torque are also a thing of the past. With our new magnetic high-frequency connectors, the days of bent contacts, loose, or contaminated connections are over,” says May. “Without any tools, simply by bringing the two parts close together, a reliable, form-fit, and absolutely durable connection is created. Special, strong magnets ensure this. Furthermore, the magnets can be configured so that only polarity-safe connections can be made—for example, by ensuring that, in the event of an incorrect alignment, the north poles meet twice. It doesn’t get any simpler than that.”
This also impressed trade visitors at the Aaronia booth across the board. The magnetic RF connectors are currently available for N, SMA, 2.92, 1.85, and 1 mm. Additional types, such as various waveguide adapters, will expand the product line.
“We were able to impressively demonstrate to trade visitors at IMS 2026 that, in addition to the measuring instruments, the right accessories are crucial for safe and successful measurements in the high-frequency range,” says Peter May with satisfaction.
For more information visit: www.aaronia.com.
