As electronic systems demand higher frequencies and greater signal integrity, Samtec is taking a different approach to high-performance connectivity. Best known for its connector technology, Samtec has developed its own microwave cable family to deliver greater control over the performance of the complete RF signal path.
The Nitrowave® family of high-performance microwave cable assemblies combines Samtec’s expertise in precision RF connectors with proprietary cable technology. Designed to deliver low insertion loss and stable electrical performance, Nitrowave supports applications operating at frequencies up to 110 GHz, with further developments targeting 130 GHz.
Why Develop a New Cable?
At microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies, the performance of an interconnect system depends on more than the connector alone. Every element of the signal path, from the cable and its terminations to the PCB launch, can affect signal integrity.
By developing and manufacturing its own cable, Samtec can optimize the interaction between these elements rather than treating them as separate components. This gives engineers greater control over the complete RF channel, helping them meet increasingly demanding performance requirements.
Nitrowave incorporates several innovations in cable construction, including a low-density PTFE dielectric to minimize signal loss and enhanced shielding techniques. One of its most important features is the Dynamic Performance Layer (DPL), which improves the structural integrity of the cable during movement and bending.
Maintaining Performance Under Pressure
In many RF applications, particularly test and measurement, cables are repeatedly moved and repositioned. Conventional cable constructions can experience changes in electrical performance when bent, affecting measurement accuracy and repeatability.
Nitrowave’s Dynamic Performance Layer is designed to minimize these changes, maintaining phase and amplitude stability during flexing. The construction also improves mechanical durability, extending cable life in applications where frequent movement is unavoidable.
Testing of the Nitrowave LL043 series has demonstrated flex life of up to 400,000 cycles under specified test conditions, while amplitude variation can be maintained within ±0.1 dB during flexing.
Evolving for New Applications
The Nitrowave family continues to expand as new applications place greater demands on high-frequency interconnects. Samtec offers cable solutions optimized for a range of frequencies, from 18 GHz to 110 GHz, with 130 GHz technology in development.
The family also includes developments in armored cable construction for applications requiring greater resistance to crushing, abrasion and mechanical damage.
Nitrowave technology is being incorporated into Samtec’s Bulls Eye® high-performance test assemblies, supporting the increasing demands of next-generation semiconductor and system testing.
By combining cable development, precision connector design and system-level signal integrity expertise, Samtec can support customers across the complete RF signal path.
For more information about Nitrowave cable technology, visit www.samtec.com/nitrowave
