IEC 61169-44:2012

Overview

IEC 61169-44:2012 is the International Electrotechnical Commission sectional specification for series SMP push-on radio‑frequency (RF) coaxial connectors. It gives rules and guidance for preparing a formal detail specification (including a pro‑forma blank detail specification) for SMP push‑on connectors with a characteristic impedance of 50 Ω and an operating frequency limit up to 40 GHz. The standard updates and replaces IEC/PAS 61169‑44 (2010) and references generic test methods in IEC 61169‑1.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Connector family covered: SMP series push‑on RF coaxial connectors for use with RF cables and micro‑strips.
• Electrical limit: Characteristic impedance 50 Ω, frequency performance up to 40 GHz.
• Mating face dimensions: Prescribes nominal mating face dimensions for general purpose connectors - Grade 1 to ensure interchangeability.
• Standard test connectors: Dimensional details for Grade 0 standard test connectors used for laboratory measurements and calibration.
• Gauging information: Detailed gauging shapes and limits for verifying mechanical compliance of mating faces and outer contacts.
• Tests and test schedules: Selects applicable tests from IEC 61169‑1, and defines test schedules, inspection requirements and acceptance criteria for assessment levels M (medium) and H (high).
• Quality and performance guidance: Recommends performance characteristics and inspection procedures to include in supplier detail specifications (mechanical, electrical and environmental tests).
• Documentation aid: Includes instructions for preparing detail specifications and a blank pro‑forma to ensure consistent procurement and compliance wording.

Practical applications and users

Who benefits from IEC 61169‑44:2012:

• Connector manufacturers - for producing SMP connectors that meet international dimensional, mechanical and electrical requirements.
• Design engineers - specifying reliable RF interconnects for microwave, telecommunication, wireless, and other high‑frequency systems.
• Test and calibration laboratories - using Grade 0 test connectors and gauges for measurement repeatability up to 40 GHz.
• Procurement & quality teams - writing and verifying supplier detail specifications, incoming inspection, and qualification approval.
• Regulatory and compliance professionals - ensuring component interoperability and traceable test schedules per IEC requirements.

Related standards

• IEC 61169‑1 - Generic specification: general requirements and measuring methods (normative reference).
• Other parts of the IEC 61169 series cover different RF connector families and testing practices.

Keywords: IEC 61169‑44:2012, SMP push‑on, SMP connectors, RF coaxial connectors, 50 Ω, up to 40 GHz, mating face dimensions, gauging, test schedules, IEC 61169‑1, microwave, telecommunication, wireless.