IEC 61169-24:2009

Overview

IEC 61169-24:2009 is a sectional specification for radio-frequency coaxial connectors with screw coupling (type F), typically used in 75 Ω cable networks. It defines rules and information for preparing Detail Specifications (DS) for F‑type connectors, including interface dimensions, mechanical gauging, mandatory test selections (from IEC 61169-1), quality assessment procedures, and recommended performance characteristics. This second edition updates drawings to permit frequency extension up to 3 GHz.

Key topics and requirements

• Interface dimensions and tolerances: Precise male and female physical dimensions for indoor connectors (reference tables and figures), reference planes and thread details to ensure interchangeability.
• Mechanical gauges and acceptance tests: Gauging procedures for the female centre conductor using precision test pins; tests measure insertion and withdrawal forces to verify mechanical integrity and retention.
  • Maximum insertion force: 20 N
  • Minimum withdrawal (retention) force: 0.3 N
• Electrical acceptance criteria:
  • After mechanical tests, centre contact resistance ≤ 10 mΩ when remated with a 0.635 mm centre conductor at 1 A test current.
  • Reference plane contact must be achieved by mating faces, not by threads alone.
• Quality assessment & test schedules: Guidance on acceptance and periodic tests, ratings and characteristics, environmental characteristics (outdoor sockets), inspection and qualification procedures.
• Preparation of Detail Specifications (DS): Instructions, a blank DS pro‑forma, and selection guidance for tests, severities and marking/ordering information.
• Environmental guidance: Annex A provides recommended dimensions and considerations for outdoor sockets; normative references include IEC 61169-1 and EN 60068-2-52 (salt mist cyclic).

Applications and who uses this standard

IEC 61169-24 is essential for:

• Connector manufacturers creating or certifying F‑type products for 75 Ω cable networks (TV distribution, broadband cable, satellite IF).
• Test laboratories performing mechanical and electrical acceptance tests and issuing conformity reports.
• Procurement and specification engineers preparing Detail Specifications for components in cable networks.
• Quality and compliance teams ensuring products meet international interchangeability, electrical performance and environmental requirements.
• System integrators and operators assessing connector compatibility for installations up to 3 GHz.

Related standards

• IEC 61169-1: Generic specification - general requirements and measuring methods (source for mandatory test selections).
• EN 60068-2-52: Environmental testing - salt mist cyclic (relevant for outdoor connector environmental tests).
• Other parts of the IEC 61169 series cover different RF connector families and complementary requirements.

Keywords: IEC 61169-24, F-type connector, 75 Ω coaxial, RF connectors standard, interface dimensions, mechanical gauging, contact resistance, insertion force, 3 GHz.