EN 61169-1:1994

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-april-1998
Radio-frequency connectors - Part 1: Generic specification: General requirements
and measuring methods (IEC 61169-1:1992)
Radio-frequency connectors -- Part 1: Generic specification - General requirements and
measuring methods
Hochfrequenz-Steckverbinder -- Teil 1: Fachgrundspezifikation - Allgemeine
Anforderungen und Meßverfahren
Connecteurs pour fréquences radioélectriques -- Partie 1: Spécification générique -
Prescriptions générales et méthodes de mesure
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 61169-1:1994
ICS:
33.120.30 5DGLRIUHNYHQþQLNRQHNWRUML R.F. connectors
5)
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

INTERNATIONAL
IEC
STAN DARD
61169-1
QC 220000
First edition
1992-09
Radio-frequency connectors
Part 1:
Generic specification –
General requirements and measuring methods
Connecteurs pour fréquences radioélectriques
Partie 1:
Spécification générique —
Prescriptions générales et méthodes de mesure
© IEC 1992 Droits de reproduction réservés — Copyright - all rights reserved
Aucune partie de cette publication ne peut être reproduite ni No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in
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procédé, électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photo- including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in
copie et les microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de l'éditeur. writing from the publisher.
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Pour prix, vigueur
voir catalogue en
•
For price, see current catalogue

1169-1 ©IEC - 3 -
CONTENTS
Page
CROSS-REFERENCE TABLE OF CORRESPONDING CLAUSES IN
PUBLICATIONS 169-1 AND 1169-1 7
FOREWORD 7
Clause
1 Scope 9
2 Object 9
3 Normative references 9
4 Definitions
5 Units, symbols and dimensions
6 Standard ratings and characteristics
7 Classification into climatic categories
8 IEC type designation 18
9 Test Methods
9.1 General 18
9.1.1 Standard conditions for testing 19
9.1.2 Visual inspection 20
9.1.3 Dimensions
9.2 Electrical tests and measuring procedures
9.2.1 Reflection factor
9.2.2 Power rating 33
9.2.3 Contact resistance, outer conductor and screen continuity also centre
conductor continuity (mated cabled connectors) 38
9.2.4 Centre and outer conductor contact continuity under severe
mechanical conditioning 40
9.2.5 Insulation resistance 40
9.2.6 Voltage proof
9.2.7 Water immersion test 41
9.2.8 Screening effectiveness 42
9.2.9 Discharge test (corona test) 53
9.3 Mechanical tests and measuring procedures 54
9.3.1 General
9.3.2 Soldering, vibration, gauge retention force, effectiveness of contact
captivation 54
9.3.3 Vibration 55
9.3.4 Gauge retention force (resilient contacts)

1169-1 ©IEC – 4 –
Clause Page
9.3.5 Centre contact captivation 57
9.3.6 Engagement and separation forces and torques 57
9.3.7 Mechanical tests on cable fixing 58
9.3.8 Effectiveness of clamping device against cable pulling 59
9.3.9 Effectiveness of clamping device against cable bending 59
9.3.10 Effectiveness of clamping device against cable torsion 60
9.3.11 Strength of coupling mechanism 60
9.3.12 Bending moment (and shearing force) 61
9.3.13 Bump 62
9.3.14 Shock 63
9.4 Climatic conditionings and tests 64
9.4.1 Introduction 64
9.4.2 Climatic sequence 65
9.4.3 Damp heat, steady state 65
9.4.4 Rapid change of temperature 66
9.4.5 Sealing
9.4.6 Salt mist 68
9.4.7 Dust 69
9.4.8 Sulphur dioxide test 69
9.4.9 Water 70
9.5 Mechanical endurance 71
9.6 High temperature endurance 71
9.7 Resistance to solvents and contaminating fluids 72
10 Quality assessment 74
10.1 General 74
10.2 Quality assessment procedures 74
10.3 Test and measurement procedures 76
10.4 Specifications and related procedures 79
11 Marking 82
11.1 Marking of the component 82
11.2 Marking and contents of package 82
Annexes
A Simulated sea-water solution for use with salt mist test 83
B Related documents 84
1169-1 © IEC - 5 -
Cross-reference table of corresponding clauses
in IEC Publications 169-1 and 1169-1
169-1-X 1169-1
Heading of clause
Clause
Clause X
Scope 1 -
2 - 2
Object
-
Terminology 3 -
- - 3
Normative references
- 4
Definitions -
4 -
Units, symbols and dimensions
5 - 6
Standard ratings and characteristics
6 -
Classification into climatic categories
7 - 10
Quality assessment
8 - 11
Marking
9 - 8
IEC type designation
Test methods - -
10 - 9.1
- General
- 9.1.1
Standard conditions for testing 11
-
12 - 9.1.2
- Visual inspection
- 9.1.3
Dimensions 13
-
- - 9.2.1.2
- Information to be given in the relevant specification
- 9.2
- Electrical tests and measuring procedures 14
14.1 1 9.2.1
- Reflection factor
- 9.2.2
- Power rating 14.2
14.3 - 9.2.3
- Contact resistance, outer conductor and
screen continuity also centre conductor
continuity
- 9.2.4
- Centre and outer conductor contact 14.4
continuity under severe mechanical conditioning
14.5 - 9.2.5
- Insulation resistance
- 9.2.6
- Voltage proof 14.6
14.7 - 9.2.7
- Water immersion test
14.8 3 9.2.8
- Screening effectiveness
- Capacitance (deleted) 14.9 - -
14.10 - -
- R.F. shunt resistance (deleted)
14.11 - 9.2.9
- Discharge test (corona test)

- 6 -
1169-1 © IEC
Cross-reference table of corresponding clauses
in IEC Publications 169-1 and 1169-1 (continued)
169-1-X
1169-1
Heading of clause
X
Clause Clause
- Mechanical tests and measuring procedures
15 - 9.3
- General
15.1 - 9.3.1
- Soldering 15.2 - • 9.3.2
- Vibration
15.2 - 9.3.3
- Gauge retention force (resilient contacts)
15.2 - 9.3.4
- Centre contact captivation
15.2 - 9.3.5
- Engagement and separation forces
15.3 - 9.3.6
and torques
- Mechanical tests on cable fixing 15.4 - 9.3.7
- Effectiveness of clamping device against - - 9.3.8
cable pulling
- Effectiveness of clamping device against
- - 9.3.9
cable bending
- Effectiveness of clamping device against
- - 9.3.10
cable torsion
- Strength of coupling mechanism 9.3.11
15.5 -
- Bending moment (and shearing force) 15.6 - 9.3.12
- Bump
15.7 - 9.3.13
- Shock 15.8 - 9.3.14
- Climatic conditionings and tests
16 - 9.4
- Introduction 16.1 - 9.4.1
- Climatic sequence
16.2 - 9.4.2
- Damp heat, steady state
16.3 - 9.4.3
- Rapid change of temperature 16.4 - 9.4.4
- Sealing
16.5 - 9.4.5
- Mould growth (deleted) 16.6 - -
- Salt mist 16.7 - 9.4.6
- Dust 16.8 - 9.4.7
- Sulphur dioxide test
16.9 - 9.4.8
- Water - - 9.4.9
- Mechanical endurance
17 - 9.5
- High temperature endurance 18 - 9.6
- Resistance to solvents and contaminating fluids
19 - 9.7
1169-1 ©IEC – 7 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
RADIO-FREQUENCY CONNECTORS
Part 1: Generic specification - General requirements
and measuring methods
FOREWORD
1)
The formal decisions or agreements of the IEC on technical matters, prepared by Technical Committees on
which all the National Committees having a special interest therein are represented, express, as nearly as
possible, an international consensus of opinion on the subjects dealt with.
2) They have the form of recommendations for international use and they are accepted by the National
Committees in that sense.
3) In order to promote international unification, the IEC expresses the wish that all National Committees
should adopt the text of the IEC recommendation for their national rules in so far as national conditions will
permit. Any divergence between the IEC recommendation and the corresponding national rules should, as
far as possible, be clearly indicated in the latter.
4)
The IEC has not laid down any procedure concerning marking as an indication of approval and has no
responsibility when an item of equipment is declared to comply with one of its recommendations.
This standard has been prepared by Sub-Committee 46D: Connectors for r.f. cables, of
IEC Technical Committee No. 46: Cables, wires, waveguide, connectors and accessories
for communication and signalling.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents: IEC Publications 169-1,
169-1-1, 169-1-3; plus:
Six Months' Rule
Reports on Voting Two Months' Procedure Repo rt on Voting
46D(CO)107
46D(CO)129 46D(CO)140 46D(CO)152
46D(C0)122 46D (CO)132
46 D(CO)135 46D(C0)151A
46 D(CO)183 46D (C0)202
46D(CO)136
46D(CO)155
46D(CO)145 46D(CO)169
46D(CO)147 46D(CO)170
46D(CO)158 46D(CO)187
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the Voting
Reports indicated in the above table.
The QC number that appears on the front cover of this publication is the specification
number in the IEC Quality assessment system for electronic components (IECQ).

1169-1©IEC -9 -
RADIO-FREQUENCY CONNECTORS
Part 1: Generic specification - General requirements
and measuring methods
1 Scope
This standard relates to connectors for r.f. transmission lines for use in telecommuni-
cations, electronic and similar equipment.
2 Object
This standard se rv
es as a generic specification providing the basis for the sectional
standards which apply to individual connector types. It is intended to establish uniform
concepts and procedures concerning:
- terminology;
-
standard ratings and characteristics;
- testing and measuring procedures concerning electrical and mechanical properties;
- classification of connectors with regard to environmental testing procedures in-
volving temperature, humidity and vibration.
The test methods and procedures of the standard are intended and acceptance for type
approval testing. They may also be adopted, by agreement between manufacturer and
customer, to serve as a basis for acceptance tests.
3 Normative references
The following normative documents contain provisions which, through reference in
this text, constitute provisions of this part of IEC 1169. At the time of publication of
this standard, the editions indicated were valid. All normative documents are subject
to revision, and parties to agreements based on this part of IEC 1169 are encouraged to
investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the normative
documents indicated below. Members of IEC and ISO maintain registers of currently valid
International Standards.
IEC 27:
Letter Symbols to be Used in Electrical Technology.
IEC 50: International Electrotechnical Vocabulary.
IEC 50(151): 1978, Electrical and Magnetic Devices.
IEC 68-1: 1988, Environmental testing - Part 1: General and guidance.

-10- 1169-1 ©IEC
IEC 68-2-1: 1990, Environmental testing - Part 2: Tests - Test A: Cold.
IEC 68-2-2: 1974, Environmental testing - Test B: Dry heat.
IEC 68-2-3: 1969, Environmental testing - Test Ca: Damp heat, steady state.
IEC 68-2-6: 1982, Environmental testing - Test Fc and guidance: Vibration (sinusoidal).
IEC 68-2-11: 1981, Environmental testing - Test Ka: Salt mist.
IEC 68-2-13: 1983, Environmental testing - Test M: Low air pressure.
IEC 68-2-14: 1984,
Environmental testing - Test N: Change of temperature.
IEC 68-2-17: 1978, Environmental testing - Test Q: Sealing.
IEC 68-2-20: 1979, Environmental testing - Test T: Soldering.
IEC 68-2-27: 1987, Environmental testing - Test Ea and guidance: Shock.
IEC 68-2-29: 1987,
Environmental testing - Test Eb and guidance: Bump.
IEC 68-2-30: 1980, Environmental testing - Test Db and guidance: Damp heat, cyclic:
(12 + 12 hour cycle).
IEC 68-2-42: 1980, Environmental testing - Test Kc: Sulphur dioxide test for contacts and
connections.
IEC 68-2-47: 1982, Environmental testing - Mounting of components, equipment and other
articles for dynamic tests.
IEC 68-2-54: 1985, Environmental testing - Test Ta: Solderability testing by the wetting
balance method.
IEC 457-1: 1974,
Rigid precision coaxial lines and their associated precision connectors.
Part 1: General requirements and measuring methods.
IEC 617: Graphical symbols for diagrams.
ISO 370: 1975, Toleranced dimensions - Conversion from inches into millimetres and vice
versa.
ISO 1000: 1981,
SI units and recommendations for the use of their multiples and of certain
other units.
-11 - 1169-1 ©IEC
4 Definitions
For the purpose of this standard, the following definitions apply:
4.1 General, parts of connectors
4.1.1 (Electrical) Contact
The state in which individual electrically conductive parts are in such close mechanical
touch as to provide a low resistance path to electrical current in either direction.
4.1.2 Contact
The conductive element in a component which mates with a corresponding element to
provide an electrical path (to provide electrical contact).
4.1.3 Male contact
Pin contact
A contact intended to make electrical engagement on its outer su ace and which will enter
rf
a female (socket) contact.
4.1.4 Female contact
Socket contact
A contact intended to make electrical engagement on its inner su rface and which will
accept entry of a male (pin) contact.
4.1.5 Hermaphroditic contact
A contact which is intended to mate with an identical contact.
4.1.6 Resilient contact
A contact having elastic properties to provide a force to its mating part.
4.2 Basic connector terms
4.2.1 Connector
A component normally attached to a cable or mounted on a piece of apparatus (excluding
an adaptor) for electrically joining separable parts of a transmission line system.
4.2.2 Connector pair
Two connectors having complementary mating faces and locking means, so as to be
mateable and interlockable.
-12 - 1169-1 ©IEC
4.2.3 Type
Series
Terms characterizing the particular mating faces and locking means of a connector pair
with regard to construction and dimension.
NOTE - The term "series" is sometimes used as an approximate synonym of "type" for designating the
entirety of connector styles with identical mating face and locking means.
4.2.4
Style
A particular form or shape of connector, as well as a combination of connectors of the
same type. Examples are: free and fixed connectors, both straight and right angle, within-
type adaptors straight and right angle.
NOTE - For "adaptor, see 4.5.1 to 4.5.5: a "within-type adaptor may also be considered as a particular
style of a given type.
4.2.5 Variant
A variation of a style in particular details, such as cable-entry dimensions.
4.2.6 Grade
A qualification of a connector with regard to mechanical and electrical precision in parti-
cular with respect to a defined reflection factor.
4.2.7
General purpose connector: Grade 2
A connector making use of the widest permitted dimensional deviations (tolerances) so as
still to guarantee minimum stated performance and intermateability.
NOTE - A requirement for the reflection factor may or may not be specified.
4.2.8 High performance connector: Grade 1
A connector for which limits of reflection factor are specified as a function of frequency.
No tighter dimensional tolerances than those applicable to Grade 2 are normally specified.
The manufacturer is responsible, however, for choosing tighter tolerances where
necessary to ensure that the reflection factor requirements are met.
4.2.9 Standard test connector: Grade 0
A precisely made connector of a particular type used to carry out reflection factor measure-
ments on Grade 1 and Grade 2 connectors, contributing only negligible errors to the
measuring result.
NOTE - The standard test connector is often part of an inner-type adaptor which allows connection with a
precision connector forming pa rt
of the measuring equipment.
1169-1 ©I EC - 13 -
4.2.10
Precision connector
A connector that has coincident mechanical and electrical reference planes, air dielectric,
and has the property of making connections with a high degree of repeatability without
introducing significant reflections, loss or leakage. It is intended for mounting on air-lines
and instruments. Precision connectors can be of the hermaphroditic type, flange type or of
the pin and socket type as stated in IEC 457-1: Rigid precision coaxial lines and their
associated precision connectors, Pa rt 1: General requirements and measuring methods.
4.2.11 Laboratory precision connector (LPC)
rt
A precision connector without dielectric suppo for the centre conductor.
4.2.12 General precision connector (GPC)
A precision connector with self-contained dielectric suppo capable of supporting the un-
rt
supported centre conductor of an LPC and standard air-line with which it is mated.
4.3 Constructional terms
4.3.1
Male connector
Pin connector
A connector containing a male (pin) centre contact.
4.3.2 Female connector
Socket connector
A connector containing a female (socket) centre contact.
4.3.3 Plug connector
A connector featuring the active pa rt of the coupling mechanism, i.e. the nut or bayonet
ring, and which normally is a free connector.
NOTE - Depending on the particular type, a plug may be a male or female connector.
4.3.4 Socket
A connector complementary to the plug.
4.3.5 Hermaphroditic connector
A connector which mates with an identical connector.
NOTE - The coupling (locking) means need not be hermaphroditic.
4.3.6
Free connector
A connector for attachment to a free end of a cable. It is normally a plug.
NOTE - If not specified as fixed, a connector is assumed to be free.

-14 - 1169-1 ©IEC
4.3.7
Fixed connector
A connector with provision for attachment to a mounting surface. It is normally a socket.
4.3.8 Triaxial
A transmission line comprising three concentric conductors having a common axis and
with each conductor insulated from the other two.
4.4
Sealing
4.4.1
Sealed connector
A connector employing a seal capable of fulfilling specified gas-, moisture- or liquid-
tightness requirements.
4.4.2 Barrier seal
A seal preventing the passage of gases, moisture or liquids in an axial direction within the
body shell of a connector.
4.4.3 Panel seal
A seal preventing the passage of gases, moisture or liquids between the fixed connector
or adaptor body shell and the panel via the mounting hole(s).
NOTE - The sealing member is often provided as a discrete item.
4.4.4 Mating face seal
A seal preventing the passage of gases, moisture or liquids into the interface space of a
pair of mated connectors.
4.4.5 Hermetic seal
A seal meeting the requirements specified on application of Test Qk of IEC 68-2-17:
Environmental testing, Part 2: Tests, Test Q: Sealing.
4.5 Miscellaneous terms and terms concerning measuring equipment
4.5.1
Adaptor
A two-port device for joining two transmission lines having non-mating connectors.
4.5.2 Fixed adaptor
An adaptor with provision for attachment to a mounting surface.
NOTE - If not specified as fixed, an adaptor is assumed to be free.
4.5.3 Within-type adaptor
An adaptor for use between two or more connectors all of the same type.

1169-1 ©IEC - 15 -
4.5.4 Inter-type adaptor
An adaptor for use between two or more connectors of different types.
4.5.5 Standard test adaptor
An inter-type adaptor for test purposes, having a standard test connector at one end and a
precision connector at the other end.
4.5.6 Standard air line
A homogenous air dielectric transmission line having the smallest possible irregularities
in diameter and straightness of conductors, no self-contained supports for the inner
conductor and using non-magnetic material with good conductivity.
4.5.7 Reference line
An air line similar to the standard air line but with dielectric support of the inner conductor,
and with a design such that the internal reflection factor is kept at a minimum within the
frequency range made use of for measurements.
4.5.8 Cable simulator
A section of precise transmission line with accurate characteristic impedance, in general
a precision cable, to which the connector under test is attached in such a way that the
transition from line to connector simulates as precisely as possible the normal state of
the connector attached to an appropriate cable (in particular with regard to reflection
factor and reactive disturbances).
4.5.9 Proof coupling torque
The maximum torque to be applied to the screw-coupling mechanism of a specific
connector series for testing the mechanical strength of the coupling mechanism.
4.5.10 Normal coupling torque
The maximum/minimum values of torque to be applied in normal use to the coupling of
screw type connectors.
4.5.11
Engagement and separation torque
The torque required to overcome friction, compression of springs, etc. during the
engagement and separation of connectors with rota ry type coupling mechanisms before or
after complete engagement. This is intended to check for undue tightness of threads,
burrs on bayonet-cams, freedom of rotation of coupling rings, etc.
4.6
General electrotechnical terms
NOTE - The following terms and definitions are taken from IEC 50(151): International Electrotechnical
Vocabulary (IEV), Chapter 151: Electrical and Magnetic Devices, where they are numbered 151-04-01,
151-04-02 and 151-04-03, respectively. The note added to 3.6.1, nominal value, is for the purpose of this
standard.
-16 - 1169-1 ©IEC
4.6.1 Nominal value
A suitable approximate quantity value used to designate or identify a component, device
or equipment.
a nominal value is not subject to tolerances.
NOTE - It follows from the definition that
4.6.2 Limiting value
In a specification, the greatest or smallest admissible value of one of the quantities.
4.6.3 Rated value
A quantity value assigned, generally by a manufacturer, for a specified operating condition
of a component, device or equipment.
5 Units, symbols and dimensions
5.1 Units and symbols
Units, graphical symbols, letter symbols and terminology shall whenever possible, be
taken from the following publications:
IEC publications:
27: Letter symbols to be used in electrical technology.
50: International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV).
617: Graphical symbols for diagrams.
Other publication:
ISO Standard 1000 (1981): SI units and recommendations for the use of their multiples
and of certain other units.
5.2 Dimensions
5.2.1 Details to be provided in relevant specifications
Each relevant specification shall provide:
i) sufficient dimensional information on the mating faces of general purpose and
standard test connectors as to ensure intermateability and compliance with per-
formance requirements: crimping dies, when used, shall be in accordance with the
dimensions shown in IEC 803;
ii) information on the connector envelope maximum dimensions to enable the user to
accommodate the connectors in his equipment.
The essential purpose of the drawings is to ensure mechanical interchangeability and
ormance: they are not, however, intended to restrict details of
adequate electrical perf
construction which do not affect interchangeability or pe rformance, nor are they to be
used as manufacturing drawings.
NOTE - Equipment designers should work to the limits stated in the outline drawings and not to the
dimensions of individual specimens.

1169-1 ©IEC - 17 -
5.2.2 Dimensional units to be used in specifications
The dimensions and tolerances shall be given in both millimetres and inches. The original
system of units shall be stated.
Independent of the system of units, the highest accuracy required by the dimensions shall
be such that the values, the first digit of which is 1 or 2, shall not comprise more than five
digits, those with the first digit being 3 to 9 shall not have more than four significant digits.
In any case, the precision shall be limited to 1 pm or 0,00005 in.
5.2.3
Conversion of dimensions given in inches into millimetres and vice versa.
During the conversion of the dimensions, in principle they shall be rounded to the nearest
0,001 mm or 0,00005 in. Where, however, mechanical and electrical considerations
permit, the rounding shall usually be to the nearest 0,01 mm or 0,0005 in. This also
holds for the conversion between the systems of units after having made the exact
calculation according to ISO Standard 370: Toleranced dimensions, conversion from
inches to millimetres and vice versa.
A note shall be added to each specification reading:
"The values for the dimensions in.1.derived from these in.*.are not necessarily exact
according to ISO Standard 370: Toleranced dimensions - Conversion from inches into
millimetres and vice versa. They are, however, to be considered as acceptable rounded
values with regard to accuracy.
NOTE - For more details, see 9.1.3 of IEC 1169-1."
6 Standard ratings and characteristics
The ratings and characteristics applicable to each connector type and style shall be stated
in the relevant specification. They should normally cover:
- a sho rt description of the connector construction stating in particular the inner
diameter of the outer conductor and, if applicable, the cable types preferable to be
used with the connector;
- the reflection factor as a function of frequency for the different grades (if applicable)
together with the conditions for which it is valid;
- the working voltage at different altitudes (pressures);
- the climatic categories;
any other rating or characteristic applicable.
7 Classification into climatic categories
The classification of connectors with regard to climatic conditions is based on IEC 68-1:
Pa rt 1: General and Guidance, and indicated by a series of three sets of digits separated
by oblique strokes corresponding respectively to tests at low temperature (minus sign not
shown), high temperature and the number of days of exposure to damp heat, steady state.
1 Millimetres or inches to be entered as applicable.

-18- 1169-1 ©IEC
The climatic severities to be prescribed by the relevant specification shall preferably, but
not necessarily, be selected from the following preferred values:

Low temperature -40 °C, -55 °C

High temperature
85 °C (category 085), 125 °C and 155 °C
Duration of damp heat,
steady state 4 days (category 04), 21 and 56 days
The following two groups are recommended as preferred climatic categories for r.f.
connectors:
40/085/21
55/155/21
8 IEC type designation
The purpose of the IEC type designation is to identify a particular connector within the
scope of IEC r.f. connector standardization. It is not intended to include information in
excess of this. In practice, it is usually necessary to identify a manufacturer's product
because, although complying with the IEC standard, there may be features not covered by
the standard.
Connectors complying with the relevant specification shall be designated by the following
indications and in the order given:
a) the number of the specification;
b) the letters "IEC";
c) additional identification as indicated in the relevant specification.
pe designation is used, either for the marking of the product or in a description
NOTE - When an IEC ty
of the product, it is the responsibility of the manufacturer to ensure that the item meets the requirements of
the relevant specification. The IEC as a body cannot accept responsibility in this matter.
9 Test Methods
9.1 General
This section comprises the description of electrical and mechanical measuring methods,
environmental conditionings and testing procedures to be used and acceptance for type
testing, but which are also applicable to other testing purposes. In general no require-
ments are directly specified. However, where appropriate, one or more preferred severities
are given.
The relevant specification shall prescribe those tests, measuring methods and procedures,
taken from the library of tests as contained in this chapter, needed for a specific product,
together with the appropriate severities and requirements.
For technical reasons some of the tests have to be carried out in a definite sequence on
the same specimens. Separate specimens may be required for different sequences. Since,
for some tests the specimens undergo a treatment which excludes them from being sold, it
is an economic measure to form appropriate test groups.

1169-1 ©IEC - 19 -
A schedule of test groups taking into account the above is shown in annex A. This
schedule is expected to be applicable, in principle, to all types of connectors, deleting
those tests or sequences not required for a particular type or style.
According to the schedule, all specimens of a test sample should be submitted to the first
group of tests. The sample is then split up into the required number of equal sub-samples
of not less than four pairs of connectors, unless otherwise specified.
9.1.1 Standard conditions for testing
Unless otherwise specified, the following conditions shall apply:
-
tests shall be carried out under standard atmospheric conditions for testing as
specified in IEC 68-1;
- before measurements are made, the connectors shall be preconditioned under
standard atmospheric conditions for testing for a time sufficient to allow the entire
connector to reach thermal stability.
- recovery conditions for the interval after a conditioning and the next measurement
or test shall be in accordance with IEC 68-1.
The test schedule is shown in 10.3 and details of conditioning in 9.4.
When a nominal value only is given for an applied stress and/or the duration of
application, the specified value shall be taken to indicate the minimum test severity to be
applied.
The test shall be carried out with connectors as received from the supplier. In no case
shall the contact parts be cleaned or otherwise prepared prior to tests, unless explicitly
stated in the specification.
If it is required that a cable shall be attached to a connector, this shall be done in
accordance with the connector manufacturer's instructions (normally supplied with the
connectors).
Mated sets of connectors shall be fully engaged and screw-coupled connectors shall be
tightened to the normal coupling torque quoted in the relevant specification.
When mounting is required in a test, the connector shall be securely mounted on a rigid
plate of suitable material, using a clamp for free connectors or the normal fixing for fixed
connectors. The dimensions of the mounting plate shall be such that the contour of the
specimen is exceeded.
Mounting and arrangement of cables/wires for dynamic tests such as bump, vibration and
shock, shall be in accordance with IEC 68-2-47. Unless otherwise specified in the relevant
specification cables/wires shall be clamped to the test table in axial alignment at a
distance of 90 mm t 10 mm from each cable outlet. The free end of the cable shall be
restrained from rotation by clamping to a rigid support.
Unless otherwise indicated in the relevant specification the effects of gravitational
force and the direction and level of the prevailing magnetic field may be disregarded when
carrying out dynamic tests.
- 20 - 1169-1 ©IEC
In the case of mounted connectors subjected to environmental conditioning, care shall be
taken to ensure that the surface finish of the mounting plate is compatible with that of the
connector body so that electrolytic corrosion due to contact of dissimilar metals is avoided.
For sealed connectors the mounting shall take the form of a suitable test jig so
that without disturbance of the panel seals, the leakage rate may be measured at the
conclusion of the recovery period after the environmental conditioning. The back-of-panel
portion of such fixed connectors, when appropriate, shall be protected. The free ends of
cable shall be protected against the ingress of moisture.
For tests involving exposure to high temperature - usually the upper temperature category
as in the climatic sequence, rapid change of temperature and high temperature
endurance, a cable with an appropriate temperature capability should be used. The upper
temperature limit of the cable specified may, however, be less than of the connector.
9.1.2 Visual inspection
Visual inspection shall include a check on:
a) The marking:
it shall be correct in accordance with 11.2 and be legible after any of the specified tests.
b) The manufacture:
it shall have been carried out in a careful and workmanlike manner.
Deterioration after electrical, mechanical and climatic tests:
c)
unless otherwise specified, there shall be no visible deterioration likely to affect the
performance.
d) The marking on the package:
it shall be in accordance with 11.2.
9.1.3 Dimensions
The dimensions shall be checked and shall comply with those specified by the relevant
specification.
Any suitable method may be used except that gauges shall be used when specified by the
relevant specification.
9.1.3.1 Outline dimensions
The outline dimensions shall comply with those specified in the relevant specification.
When specified as a lot-by-lot inspection, this requirement may be demonstrated prior to
final assembly.
9.1.3.2 Piece-parts-with-materials
One set of piece-parts supplied to the requirements of the relevant specification shall
be checked with compliance with the drawings quoted on the qualification approval
application or certificate.
9.1.3.3 Mechanical compatibility
The dimensions of the mating face shall be in accordance with the mating face drawings
prescribed in the relevant specification.
Use of compatibility gauges is optional. When used, specimens shall accept the gauges.

1169-1 ©IEC – 21 –
9.2 Electrical tests and measuring procedures
9.2.1 Reflection factor
9.2.1.1 General considerations
The reflection factor of r.f. connectors shall be measured with the test specimen mated
with a standard test connector. Adaptors shall be mated with standard test connectors on
both sides.
The relevant specification for a particular connector shall also specify the pertinent
standard test connector (connector of Grade 0). Mated pairs of standard test connectors
shall exhibit closest uniformity of characteristic impedance throughout the pair inclusive of
the transitions to precision lines or cables.
Cable connectors shall be attached to an appropriate cable in accordance with the
instructions supplied by the connector manufacturer. The cable to be used shall preferably
be of the close tolerance type. Alternatively the use of a cable simulator is permitted.
Time-domain reflectometry (TDR) shall be used to check the homogeneity of the measur-
ing set-up, to localize impe
rfections and to examine the accuracy of the characteristic
impedance of the sections of coaxial lines used.
The reflection factor shall be expressed as a function of frequency. Measurements shall
usually be made in the frequency domain, preferably by using a swept-frequency genera-
tor. Measuring in the time domain and converting to frequency domain may be suitable up
to frequencies of approximately 1 GHz and has the particular advantage of permitting the
separation of reflections arising from the connector under test from other reflections in the
system. This is more difficult to achieve, in particular at low frequencies, when measuring
in the frequency domain.
If spot frequency, as distinguished from sweep-frequency, techniques are used, appro-
priately small frequency increments shall be employed. Spot-frequency techniques are not
satisfactory for error recognition methods, unless the generator (normally automatically
controlled) permits very small increments of frequency.
Examples of appropriate equipment for measuring the reflection factor as a function of
frequency include radio-frequency bridges, directional couplers and slotted lines.
Measuring set-ups using this equipment without special provisions for recognition of errors
originating from different defects are, in general, only satisfactory for reflection factors
greater than 0,05 (considering that the measuring uncertainty should not be greater than
10 % of the quantity measured).
For testing connectors with specified reflection factor limits lower than 0,05 the use of a
set-up permitting the recognition of error contributions, and thus permitting the evaluation
of the relevant reflection, will in general be necessary.
There are some computer controlled automated measurement systems having enhance-
ment routines with error correction models that reduce the measurement uncertainty in
reflection factor to the point where further recognition methods are not required.
9.2.1.2
Information to be given in the relevant specification
a)
limits for the reflection factor as a function of frequency appropriate to the grade;
b) measuring accuracy;
c)
details of the standard test connector;
d) necessary characteristics of the appropriate cable;
e) any deviation from the standard test method.

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9.2.1.3 Normal measuring methods
9.2.1.4 Ordinary measuring set-up
Figure 1 shows a simple set-up, using either a bridge, a directional coupler or a slotted
line, with which the recognition of errors from different sources is not normally possible. In
this figure, the principle locations where reflections may occur are marked with B, C and
D, together with the associated reflection factors rb, rc and rd. The reflection factor due to
the connector under test is rx.
The measuring po error rb represents not only the reflection at that location but incor-
rt
porates also bridge, coupler or slotted line residual errors.
Since the phases of the several reflected waves depend on the electrical lengths between
the locations and, therefore, on the frequency, their contributions to the apparent total
reflection factor are random. The root mean square value obtained, therefore, is:
2 ^ 2 2 rd2)
r^
rX + rb + + rd2
= rtotal
rb d = 0,01. Assuming rX = 0,05 this
As an example, typical values may be = 0,018, rc = r
leads to:
rtotal
—
1,1
rX
This represents an inaccuracy of 10 %. Single values at individual frequencies may, of
course, be affected by much greater or smaller errors.
Although a swept-frequency generator is indicated in figure 1, this is not intended to
preclude the use of spot-frequency techniques, taking into due account the warning
expressed in 9.2.1.1.
Sweep generator I
O O OO O OO
I
Bridge or directional coupler
^1—€)
^
or slotted line
I
_J
B C D
i
rc
Calibrated variable rb rd
attenuator G I
rx
i
Detector
I 1
O Bridge test port connector
Log. amplifier O Standard test adaptor
analyzer
or network
OO Standard connector
i
O Connector under test
Oscilloscopexy
or x-y recorderrecorder
OO Cable or cable simulator
061/87
Figure 1 - Bridge, coupler or slotted line method
without error recognition
1169-1 ©IEC – 23 –
9.2.1.5
Two-connector procedure
A special procedure, called the two-connector procedure, uses as test set-up two, as far
as possible identical, test specimens interconnected back to back by a section of cable
previously selected for accuracy and uniformity of characteristic impedance. While not
permitting the recognition of errors, this procedure allows identification with good prob-
ability whether appreciable disturbances are present.
The procedure is illustrated in figure 2. It makes use of the phenomena that for two
identical test specimens, which have also equal reflection factors as a function of
frequency, the reflections from the two connectors cancel each other each time the
distance p between them corresponds to an odd number of quarter wavelengths, and they
add numerically to double their individual value if p equals an even number of quarter
wavelengths of the wave in the interconnecting section p. Complete cancellation is a fairly
reliable criterion for both the exact equality of the reflections from the two connectors and
the absence of spurious reflections in the system.
In practical applications, the loss in the cable section p prevents the backward waves,
resulting from equal reflection factors, from producing complete cancellation at the nodes.
Unequal reflections manifest themselves as unequal minima when the connector assembly
is reversed. In general, low maximum values (low reflection factor) with minimum values
that do not change with reversal of the assembly, are acceptable. However, maximum
values corresponding to reflection factors in excess of specified data, or considerable
change in minimum values when the assembly is reversed should result in both connec-
tors and cable being inspected before further tests are resumed.
The interconnecting cable of the connectors shall consist either of a prescribed cable of
verified performance or an adequate cable simulator. The cable shall be no longer than is
necessary with regard to the lowest frequency at which the reflection factor is to be
measured. Several lengths p may be advisable for a wide frequency range and also if
results are required at frequencies not covered by the series of anti-nodes.
As a check of the accuracy of the system, it is recommended to repeat the measurements
with the connector assembly reversed between the standard test connectors.
The two-connector procedure may be used in conjunction with bridge, directional coupler or
slotted line measuring methods. In the following, the la tter method is described in some detail.
Connectors Precision
Standard Standard
under test termination
test adaptor test adaptor
See note  See note
P
062/87
NOTE - Instead of using standard test adaptors, standard tests connectors may be directly used on the
generator port and the precision termination.
Figure 2 – Measuring set-up for two connector procedure

- 24 - 1169-1 ©IEC
Figure 3 shows the x-y-plot of the voltage on the slotted line, preferably using a loga-
rithmic scale graded in decibels, as a function of frequency with the probe position as a
parameter (the probe is simply moved by an appropriate amount after each frequency
sweep). The display of the curves permits the envelopes to be drawn. Thus, the minimum
widths of the display may be judged. The maximum widths of the envelope correspond to
the voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) from which the reflection factor at the particular
frequency is derived.
The numerical value of the reflection factor
r corresponding to the maximum is given by
the formula:
VSWR - 1
for a single connector:
r =
2 VSWR + 1
Voltage on slotted line
logarithmic scale (dB/division)
I
Maximum widths = VSWR (dB) max.
r
relevant for calculation of
Of ==
^f ==
2p
2p
Linear frequency scale
f
a
063/87
c = wave propagation speed in section p
Figure 3 - Voltage on slotted line as a function of frequency
with probe position as parameter
9.2.1.6 Measuring methods providing error recognition
9.2.1.6.1 Using a bridge
In order to achieve the possibility of error recognition, two modifications are applied to
the normal measuring set-up in figure 1. These include providing adequate lengths of the
lines fro
...