SV Microwave, Inc. SF0987-6001

The ZMA connector is a bayonet coupling device. The unique design of this connector provides a high coupling force, which is ideal for extreme vibration applications where insufficient room is available for spring loaded blindmate panels. This ZMA connector was first developed for an F-22 aircraft application issue where neither a threaded nor a true blindmate connector would work due to space limitation. The ZMA is a quarter turn coaxial connector that can be mated by hand so that special tooling is not required for proper installation. There are 8 keying arrangements are available to prevent improper mating of assemblies in blind installations. The ZMA connector is designed with electrical performance of 18 GHz, overlapping PTFE dielectrics, and rugged stainless steel body construction appropriate for military applications. The ZMA connector has a gold plated beryllium copper wiping contacts and a corrosion resistant, stainless steel coupling spring. A brass-bodied version is also available for high volume application addressing needs in telecommunications. There is a high power version available for the ZMA connector that can handle 6.7 KW at 2 GHz. The concept is being extended to frequencies above 18 GHz.