IEC 61169-23:2025

Overview

IEC 61169-23:2025 is a sectional specification for pin and socket RF connectors designed for use with 3.5 mm rigid precision coaxial lines (inner diameter of outer conductor 3.5 mm). The standard defines mating-face dimensions for high‑performance (grade 1) connectors, dimensional details for standard test connectors (grade 0), gauging information and selected tests from IEC 61169‑1. It is intended to guide the preparation of detail specifications (DS) and to recommend performance, test schedules and inspection requirements for assessment levels M and H. These 50 Ω connectors provide low reflection up to 34 GHz and are interoperable with SMA (IEC 61169‑15) and 2.92 mm (IEC 61169‑35) connectors.

Key topics and requirements

• Mating‑face dimensions: Precise geometries for pin‑centre and socket‑centre contacts (grade 1), including reference planes and surface finish guidance.
• Standard test connectors (grade 0): Dimensional details used for reproducible test setups.
• Gauging and gauge pins: Specifications and test procedures (sizing and insertion) for socket‑centre contacts to ensure reliable contact retention and sizing.
• Selected test methods: Tests and measuring methods drawn from IEC 61169‑1 (electrical, mechanical and environmental), with recommended test schedules for acceptance and periodic inspection.
• Quality assessment: Procedures, ratings and characteristics to be included when drafting a detail specification; inspection levels M and H are covered.
• Performance guidance: Recommended characteristics to achieve low reflection to 34 GHz and correct mating with 50 Ω, 3.5 mm rigid coaxial lines (see IEC 60457‑5).

Practical applications

• Preparing or reviewing detail specifications (DS) for 3.5 mm RF connectors used in high‑frequency test equipment, instrumentation, aerospace, defense and telecom systems.
• Guiding connector design and manufacturing to meet tighter dimensional tolerances and interoperability with SMA and 2.92 mm series.
• Defining factory acceptance tests, periodic tests and inspection plans for quality assurance and supplier contracts.
• Supporting test laboratories and compliance engineers performing gauging, insertion/sizing tests and electromagnetic/mechanical verifications.

Who should use this standard

• RF/microwave designers and system integrators
• Connector manufacturers and quality engineers
• Procurement/specification authors and test laboratories
• Compliance and R&D teams focused on high‑frequency interconnects

Related standards

• IEC 61169‑1:2013 (generic RF connector specification)
• IEC 61169‑15 (SMA) and IEC 61169‑35 (2.92 mm) - interoperability references
• IEC 60457‑5 (3.5 mm rigid precision coaxial line)
• IEC 62153‑4‑7 and IEC 62037‑3 (test methods referenced)

Keywords: IEC 61169-23:2025, 3.5 mm RF connectors, pin and socket connector, rigid precision coaxial line, mating face dimensions, gauge pins, low reflection 34 GHz, detail specification, IEC 61169-1.