[TowerTalk] F-connectors

[Paul Christensen]

"The primary reason for using F-connectors is that the CATV cables require crimp connectors, and F-connectors have dominated CATV/MATV because they are fairly inexpensive and very easy to install with the proper tools...73, Jim K9YC

Adding to Jim's point, the SNS F connector has two metallic pieces and there's no center pin to crimp.  Compare the complexity of the F to a BNC.  Now deploy a million of each type into a metro service area.  I can’t imagine the number of truck rolls needed if CATV/SAT companies depended on a BNC.   The broadband CATV companies rely on  the F up to 1 GHz and have been for the last 20+ years.  

Although not obvious, the mating female F center connection has advanced over the decades.  Early female Fs used a pair of leaf springs to maintain contact with the RG6 center conductor.  Modern Fs use a knuckled inner that applies equal spring force around the entire surface of the center conductor.  

The latest generation of SNS connectors contain an o-ring boot on the front of the rotating nut (e.g., PPC EX6WSPLUS).  As the F is tightened, the boot compresses against the mating surface.  When these SNS connectors are used with gel-flooded RG6, it makes for very reliable connections that need no attention for a long time.

For receive systems, the RG6 and SNS F combination is an excellent choice.  

Paul, W9AC