CD Series: Low-loss Semi-Rigid Coaxial Cable
CD Series: Low-loss Semi-Rigid Coaxial Cable provides excellent shielding effectiveness, low RF attenuation and precise impedance stability for microwave and millimeter-wave applications. This semi-rigid RF cable is commonly used in radar systems, satellite communication equipment, RF modules, aerospace electronics and microwave assemblies requiring stable electrical performance and high signal integrity.
CD Series: Low-Loss Semi-Rigid Coaxial Cables
AO Microwave’s CD Series coaxial cables are designed to deliver low insertion loss alongside absolute electromagnetic shielding up to 50 GHz [3.3.4]. Constructed with a solid copper, aluminum, or stainless steel outer tube, these semi-rigid cables incorporate gold-plated copper center conductors and high-purity solid or low-density PTFE dielectrics. Operating across standard bands with premium connector interfaces (SMA, 2.92mm, 2.4mm, and 1.85mm), our CD Series assemblies achieve an exceptional, mathematically perfect shielding effectiveness of typically > 110 dB, low VSWR, and outstanding phase stability.
By utilizing a solid metal outer wall, our semi-rigid cables eliminate high-frequency leakage. They are critical for high-power transmitter modules, satellite payloads operating in vacuum, and high-frequency phase-matched communication runs.
Preventing Center Conductor Extrusion & Solid-Wall Shielding
Semi-rigid coaxial cables utilize a solid metal outer tube (copper, aluminum, or stainless steel) instead of braided wires. This solid-wall construction provides mathematically complete shielding with zero RF leakage, delivering a shielding effectiveness of over 110 dB.
However, under wide temperature variations, the high thermal expansion of the internal PTFE dielectric can cause a mechanical mismatch. As the PTFE expands, it can put axial pressure on the center conductor, forcing it to push out of the connector interface—a phenomenon known as center conductor extrusion. AO Microwave prevents extrusion by pre-conditioning our semi-rigid cables through thermal cycling and incorporating rigid internal dielectric capture mechanisms inside the connectors to lock the contacts.
Target Applications & Operational Advantages
By providing solid-wall shielding and low insertion loss, our CD Series semi-rigid cables secure critical high-power connections:
High-Power Transmitter Modules
Function: Connects internal stages in high-power solid-state amplifiers (SSPA) and transmitter feeds.
Advantage: Solid metal outer wall provides complete RF shielding and low contact resistance, handling high power levels without leakage.
Satellite Payload Internal Routing
Function: Routes high-frequency signals inside satellite transponders operating in vacuum and cryogenic conditions.
Advantage: Low outgassing rates and excellent phase stability under thermal cycling ensure reliable performance in space environments.
Phase-Matched Antenna Manifolds
Function: Connects multi-channel antenna arrays where precise phase matching is required.
Advantage: Rigid construction and precise electrical trimming allow for highly consistent phase matching between cable runs.
CD Series Coaxial Cable FAQs
Need low-loss, high-shielding CD Series Semi-Rigid Cables?
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