PL-259 Connectors Crimp PL 259 UHF Male Plug RF Coaxial Connector for LMR400 RG8 9913 RG214 RG213 Coax Cable

A PL-259 male crimp coaxial connector is an RF connector used to terminate large-diameter coaxial cables. This type of connector is designed to be attached with a specialized crimping tool, which compresses a ferrule to secure the cable’s outer shield and jacket. This crimping method creates a durable, reliable mechanical and electrical bond.

Termination and Design

This connector is a UHF male plug (PL-259). The crimp method is often preferred for its speed and reliability, especially on thick cables, as it provides a robust connection without the heat and potential damage associated with soldering the shield. The center pin, which carries the signal, may still be soldered, creating a hybrid crimp-and-solder connector.

Cable Compatibility

This specific type of PL-259 connector is made for heavy-duty, low-loss coaxial cables that have an outer diameter of approximately 10.3 mm (0.405 inches). This makes it compatible with:

LMR-400: A low-loss cable known for its excellent performance at higher frequencies.
RG-8/U and RG-213: Older, but still widely used cables with similar physical dimensions.
RG-214: A double-shielded version of the RG-8/U, also compatible.
9913: A specific type of low-loss coaxial cable with a solid center conductor.

Technical Specification

Technical Data

Impedance: 50 ohms.
Frequency Range: The UHF connector design is generally best for HF and VHF applications, typically below 300 MHz. Above this, signal loss due to the non-constant impedance can become an issue.
Materials: Typically, the body is made of nickel-plated brass, the center pin is gold-plated brass for superior conductivity, and the insulator is PTFE (Teflon).
Power Handling: These connectors can handle significant power, often rated to a higher wattage than other connector types due to their robust construction and low-loss characteristics.