5G Antenna system connector assembly
The assembly off a 5G antenna system comes with their own challenges such as:
- Lack of space between connectors.
- Loss or intermittent contact due to under-tightened connector. Under-tighten a connector and you may get a high loss or intermittent contact which might not reveal itself for some time.
- If the tightening torque is too low, there is a risk of a high loss of interrupted contact, a problem that may only become visible after some time.
- If the tightening torque is too high, there is a risk of damage to the connector.
Over-tightening connectors has the effect of compressing the internal components and in severe cases causing pressure on the mating center pins, which in turn can lead to failure of the connection between the center pin and anything it is connected to . - Work at height.
Max connector tightening torque is the amount of force required to make a proper connection between two threaded coaxial connectors. (torque/torque is indicated by supplier of 5G antenna system, supplier of connectors.
Connections in most RF and microwave systems are made using coaxial connectors – this can be done by joining two systems together using connectors soldered to a PCB, connecting a device to a coaxial cable, or connecting a coaxial cable to test equipment.
To ensure a good RF connection, ensure that the connector interfaces are fully powered during installation and remain in use. To do this, the correct torque must be applied when making the connection.
The recommended tightening torque for threaded coaxial connectors is determined by the size of the connector and the materials it is made of.
Most connector types have recommended torque levels that should be applied in order to provide a good connection.
The application of insufficient torque will result in a poor or unstable connection while an over-torque will damage the mating surfaces and coupling mechanisms.
The TrackWrench Solution
Due to the use of open end torque wrench head, TrackWrench® recommends to use a torque wrench that is equipped with an ISO interchangeable head.
Depending on the type of connector and producer of the connector the torque range can vary between 1 Nm and 60 Nm. Open end heads mostly used: 7mm, 8mm, 16mm, 17mm, 19mm, 20mm, 22mm and 32mm.
