IEC 63138-2:2023

Overview

IEC 63138-2:2023 is the sectional specification (SS) for MQ4 series circular connectors, published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It complements IEC 63138-1 by providing the information and rules needed to prepare detail specifications (DS) for four‑channel, 50 Ω multi‑channel RF connectors. The document covers mating face dimensions, gauging information, a blank DS pro forma, quality assessment procedures and a selection of tests from IEC 63138-1 applicable to all MQ4 detail specifications.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Connector family: MQ4 series circular connectors with four RF channels that can be engaged/disengaged simultaneously.
• Impedance: 50 Ω nominal for RF channels.
• Mechanical variants:
  • Plug connectors: two plug versions - quick‑lock and threaded.
  • Socket connector: supports both quick‑lock and threaded coupling.
• Mating face dimensions and gauging:
  • Detailed drawings and dimensional tables for plug, socket and individual RF channel mating faces.
  • Gauge designs and dimensional tolerances to verify mechanical compatibility and interchangeability.
• Testing and quality:
  • Selection of applicable tests from IEC 63138-1, including mechanical compatibility and return loss inspections.
  • Quality assessment procedures: rating and characteristics tables, inspection procedures (lot‑by‑lot, periodic and qualification).
• Detail specification (DS) guidance:
  • Instructions and a blank DS pro forma to help manufacturers and standards writers produce consistent product specifications.
  • Marking, ordering information and packaging requirements.

Practical applications and users

IEC 63138-2:2023 is intended for engineers and organizations involved in the design, manufacture, testing and procurement of RF connectors:

• Connector designers and manufacturers-use the standard to develop compliant MQ4 part families and to prepare product detail specifications.
• Test laboratories and quality‑assurance teams-use gauging and test selection guidance to verify mechanical compatibility, electrical performance and lot conformity.
• OEMs and system integrators-ensure mechanical and RF interoperability in mobile communication systems and other communication equipment.
• Procurement and compliance officers-reference the standard for supplier requirements and acceptance criteria.

SEO keywords (naturally integrated)

IEC 63138-2:2023, MQ4 series circular connectors, multi-channel RF connectors, 50 Ω connectors, mating face dimensions, gauging, quick-lock connector, threaded coupling, return loss, mechanical compatibility, detail specification (DS), IEC 63138-1.

Related standards

• IEC 63138-1:2019 - Multi‑channel radio‑frequency connectors - Part 1: Generic specification - general requirements and test methods.
• Other parts of the IEC 63138 series covering multi‑channel RF connector families and generic test methods.