Adapters - SMA

SMA RF Adapters

This collection contains RF coaxial adapters having an SMA connector on at least one side. These adapters allow SMA-equipped radios, antennas, test equipment, cables, and other RF devices to connect to different connector types or different SMA configurations.

SMA adapters are commonly used to transition between SMA and other RF connector families such as BNC, TNC, N, UHF (PL-259/SO-239), and others. The collection may also include SMA-to-SMA adapters used to change gender, mounting style, or connector orientation.

Check SMA vs. RP-SMA Carefully

One of the most important considerations when selecting an SMA adapter is determining whether the equipment uses standard SMA or reverse-polarity SMA (RP-SMA).

SMA and RP-SMA use similar threaded interfaces, but the center-contact arrangement is different. Because they can look very similar at first glance, identify both the threaded body and the center contact before selecting an adapter.

Male and Female Identification

When choosing an RF adapter, identify the connector required at both ends of the adapter. Do not rely only on the appearance of the threads. With SMA and especially RP-SMA connectors, the center contact must also be considered.

For example, determine:

Equipment connector → Required adapter end → Connector needed on the opposite end

This simple approach can prevent ordering an adapter with the correct connector families but the wrong genders or polarity.

Adapter Performance

Adapters introduce another RF interface into the signal path. For most general RF applications this is not a problem, but at higher frequencies adapter quality, impedance, construction, and the number of connections in the signal path become increasingly important.

For microwave or other frequency-critical applications, verify that the particular adapter is suitable for the intended operating frequency and system impedance.

Need help identifying an SMA or RP-SMA connection? Compare the connector body, threads, and center contact before ordering, or contact us if you are uncertain which adapter you need.