IEC 61169-42:2013

Overview

IEC 61169-42:2013 is an International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) sectional specification for the CQN series quick lock RF coaxial connectors. It defines rules and information for preparing detail specifications (DS) for CQN connectors with a characteristic impedance of 50 Ω, threaded coupling, and an operating frequency limit up to 11 GHz. The standard covers dimensional requirements, gauging, and selected tests from IEC 61169-1, and replaces the earlier IEC/PAS 61169-42 (2009).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and purpose: Guidance for writing detail specifications (DS) for CQN series connectors used with RF cables or micro-strips in wireless, microwave, telecommunication and related fields.
• Mating face dimensions: Prescribed mating face dimensions for general connectors - Grade 2, with metric dimensions as the reference.
• Standard test connectors: Dimensional details for standard test connectors - Grade 0 to ensure consistent test interfaces.
• Gauging information: Gauge pins and sizing procedures for the socket-centre contact (Gauge A and Gauge B defined), including surface finish and sizing/test insertion instructions.
• Test selection from IEC 61169-1: Tests and measuring methods are selected from IEC 61169-1 (generic specification) and applied to CQN series detail specifications.
• Quality assessment and test schedules: Prescribes acceptance tests, periodic tests, and inspection requirements organized for assessment levels M and H (see tables in the standard).
• Preparation of detail specifications: Instructions and a pro-forma for drafting a DS including identification, performance, marking and ordering information.
• Normative references: Includes IEC 61169-1:1992 (with Amendments 1 & 2) as an indispensable reference.
• Patent notice: The introduction notes a claimed patent related to connector design (holder contact information is recorded in the standard).

Practical applications and typical users

Who uses IEC 61169-42:2013:

• RF and microwave connector manufacturers developing CQN series products or preparing detail specifications.
• Design engineers specifying 50 Ω quick-lock threaded connectors for wireless, microwave, telecom, and instrumentation applications.
• Test laboratories and quality/inspection teams using Grade 0 test connectors and gauges to perform acceptance and periodic testing.
• Procurement and compliance managers ensuring supplied connectors meet standardized dimensions and test regimes.

Why it matters:

• Ensures interchangeability and reliable electrical performance up to 11 GHz.
• Provides standardized gauging and test methods for repeatable quality assessment.
• Helps reduce design disputes by prescribing mating face dimensions and test interfaces.

Related standards

• IEC 61169-1:1992 (Generic specification - general requirements and measuring methods)
• Other parts of the IEC 61169 series covering different RF connector families and sectional specifications

Keywords: IEC 61169-42:2013, CQN series, quick lock RF coaxial connectors, 50 Ohm connectors, 11 GHz, mating face dimensions, RF connector gauging, IEC 61169-1, connector test schedules, RF connector specification.