[Amps] Power handling of an SMA

[Steve]

Suhner data shows approx. 500W based on dielectric strength, but there's 
a second 'low SWR' curve on the chart which extrapolates to around 1500W 
at 1.3GHz. The spec. also gives 10kW for 1us. The contact resistances 
are listed as a few milliohms, so you'd be looking at 10s amps to create 
significant heating.

Not all SMAs (or other connectors) are created equal. I handle many 
brands of connector; I reckon Suhner are consistently the best quality, 
and that's not pro Eu/anti US bias :-)

UTI rate .141" coax for 300-400W at 1GHz, depending on the materials and 
plating. This will push the cable to max. rated temp., 125 or 150C I 
think, so might be more than you'd choose to run if you don't want to 
burn your fingers.

Steve