IEC 61169-35:2011

Overview

IEC 61169-35:2011 is the International Electrotechnical Commission sectional specification for 2,92 series RF coaxial connectors. It defines rules and a pro‑forma blank detail specification for manufacturers and specifiers, prescribes mating face dimensions for high‑performance (Grade 1) connectors and dimensional details for standard test connectors (Grade 0), and provides gauging information plus selected tests from IEC 61169-1. The 2,92 series is a 50 Ω, screw‑coupled coaxial connector with a 2.92 mm outer conductor inner diameter intended for millimetre‑wave use up to 40 GHz. IEC 61169-35:2011 replaces IEC/PAS 61169-35 (2009) with no technical changes other than conversion to an International Standard.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Detail specification format: rules and a blank pro‑forma for preparing product detail specifications.
• Mating face dimensions: defined limits for Grade 1 (high performance) connectors for both pin‑centre and socket‑centre contacts, with accompanying figures and tables for critical dimensions.
• Grade 0 test connector details: dimensional drawings and tolerances used for standardized test fixturing.
• Gauging and retention tests: gauge pin dimensions (Gauge A and Gauge B) and the test procedure (sizing with Gauge A, then retention check with Gauge B and a specified mass).
• Selected tests from IEC 61169‑1: electrical, mechanical and environmental tests and test schedules/inspection requirements for assessment levels M and H (acceptance and periodic tests are specified).
• Compatibility notes: 2,92 mm interface similarity to IEEE Std 287‑2007 and MIL‑STD‑348A; inter‑mateability with SMA and 3.5 mm connectors when specified.

Practical applications

• Use in millimetre‑wave systems, RF test and measurement equipment, high‑frequency instrumentation, microwave components, and cable assemblies requiring reliable performance to 40 GHz.
• Manufacturers use the standard to produce consistent mating interfaces and to prepare formal detail specifications for quality control and procurement.
• Test laboratories and quality assurance teams apply the gauging and test procedures for conformance testing and acceptance inspection.
• System designers and OEMs reference the standard when specifying connector performance and mechanical compatibility in high‑frequency products.

Who should use this standard?

• RF/microwave connector manufacturers and designers
• Test laboratories and calibration houses
• Procurement engineers and specification writers
• Aerospace, defense, telecom and instrumentation OEMs requiring high‑frequency interconnects

Related standards

• IEC 61169‑1 (generic RF connector requirements and measurement methods)
• IEC 60169‑23 (3.5 mm connector specification)
• IEEE Std 287‑2007 (2.92 mm interface reference)
• MIL‑STD‑348A and MIL‑PRF‑39012D (interface and SMA connector references)

Keywords: IEC 61169-35:2011, 2.92 series RF connectors, RF coaxial connectors, 50 Ω, 40 GHz, mating face dimensions, gauge pins, IEC 61169-1, SMA compatibility.