IEC 61169-38:2008

Overview

IEC 61169-38:2008 is a sectional specification in the IEC 61169 series covering radio-frequency coaxial connectors, model TMA (slide‑in, rack and panel applications). It establishes requirements and a pro forma detail specification for 50 Ω TMA connectors used with RF cables or microstrip in microwave systems. The standard addresses mechanical dimensions, gauging, performance recommendations and test/inspection procedures for connectors usable up to at least 6 GHz.

Key Topics

• Connector definition and scope: Series TMA slide‑in connectors for blind‑entry, mid‑power applications in rack and panel assemblies.
• Mating face dimensions: Prescribed dimensional tolerances for pin‑centre and socket‑centre mating faces (general connectors Grade 2 and standard test connectors Grade 0).
• Gauging and measurement: Gauge designs and sizing procedures for outer and inner contacts, including specified gauge pins and retention tests.
• Mechanical mounting: Guidance on connector mounting in modules and panels, including radial and axial misalignment allowances for rigid and float mounts.
• Quality assessment & tests: Test schedules, inspection requirements and selected tests from QC 220000 (IEC 61169‑1) with acceptance and periodic test tables; assessment levels M and H are covered.
• Detail specification pro forma: Instructions and a blank detail specification template to prepare product‑specific documents (identification, performance, marking, test selections, severities).
• Reference materials: Figures and tables for dimensions, gauges and test connector constructions; normative references to IEC 61169‑1 and IEC QC registers.

Applications

IEC 61169-38 is intended for practical use where reliable RF interconnection is critical:

• Telecommunications base stations and rack‑mounted RF equipment
• Microwave test and measurement instrumentation
• Broadcast and studio rack systems
• Aerospace, defense and industrial RF modules employing mid‑power, blind‑entry coaxial connections
• PCB/microstrip interfaces where a 50 Ω slide‑in connector is required (up to ~6 GHz)

Who should use this standard

• RF connector manufacturers preparing detail specifications and product drawings
• Design engineers specifying mechanical and electrical mating interfaces
• Quality and test engineers implementing acceptance and periodic test regimes
• Procurement and compliance teams requiring standardized product requirements
• Test laboratories performing dimensional gauging and conformance testing

Related Standards (if applicable)

• IEC 61169‑1: Generic specification - general requirements and measuring methods
• Other parts of the IEC 61169 series for different connector types and impedances
• IEC QC 220000 register and quality/conformance procedures

Keywords: IEC 61169-38, TMA connector, radio-frequency connectors, coaxial connectors, 50 Ω, slide‑in, rack and panel, 6 GHz, mating face dimensions, gauging, quality assessment.