Connectors - Type F TV

Type F Connectors – The Type F connector is a 75 Ohm coaxial RF connector commonly used for television, cable TV (CATV), satellite, broadband/cable modem, antenna, video, and related RF applications. It is most often encountered on 75 Ohm coaxial cables such as RG-6 and RG-59, although versions are available for other cable sizes including RG-11.

The Type F connector uses a 3/8"-32 UNEF thread. One unusual feature of the common male Type F connector is that the center conductor of the coaxial cable itself normally serves as the male center contact, rather than using a separate center pin as found in many other RF connector families. This helps make the F connector relatively simple, economical, and well suited to high-volume television and broadband installations.

Type F connectors are available in several attachment styles, including compression, crimp, twist-on, and other installation methods. Compression-style connectors are especially common in modern CATV, satellite, and broadband installations because they can provide a secure mechanical connection and good environmental protection when properly installed.

Do not confuse the Type F connector with an SMA connector. They can appear somewhat similar because both use relatively small threaded coupling nuts, but they use different thread sizes and completely different RF interfaces. Type F and SMA connectors will not properly mate and should not be forced together.

Type F connector descriptions and part numbers may include designations such as F-59, F-6, F-11, F-61, F-71, and F-81. Designations such as F-59, F-6, and F-11 are commonly associated with connectors intended for corresponding coaxial cable sizes, while designations such as F-61 and F-81 may be used for particular F-series connector or adapter configurations. Always verify the actual connector configuration and cable compatibility rather than relying solely on the designation.

When selecting a Type F connector, verify the coaxial cable type and dimensions as well as the connector's installation method. RG-6, RG-59, and RG-11 cables can vary in jacket diameter, shielding construction, and center-conductor dimensions, so a connector should be selected for the specific cable being used.