Interface Concept
An RPMCX connector is the reverse-polarity variant of the standard MCX interface. In a conventional MCX plug, the center contact is a male pin and the outer body incorporates a female receptacle; the RPMCX configuration reverses this geometry — the plug contains a female center socket while the outer contact is a male interface. This intentional inversion provides a mechanical keying function that prevents accidental mating with standard MCX devices, a requirement in certain regulated wireless systems.
When specified for flexible cable termination, the connector's internal construction is adapted to accommodate stranded center conductors and conformable dielectric materials. The crimp or clamp retention mechanism must maintain consistent contact normal force without deforming the flexible cable assembly. The impedance control geometry remains at 50 Ohm, with operating frequency typically extending to 6 GHz depending on the exact cable group.
Common Configurations by Cable Termination
RPMCX connectors for flexible cable are generally categorized by the attachment method and the compatible cable group. The table below outlines three prevalent termination styles produced by Yangzhou Jingcheng Electronics Co., Ltd.
| Termination Type |
Suitable Flexible Cable |
Assembly Characteristic |
| Solder-Clamp |
RG-174, RG-316, LMR-100, 0.81–2.54 mm jacket |
Center contact soldered to stranded conductor; braid secured by hexagonal crimp ferrule |
| Full-Crimp |
RG-178, RG-58, 1.13 mm micro-coax |
Inner pin crimped onto center wire; outer ferrule simultaneously grips braid and jacket |
| PCB Edge-Mount (flex tail) |
Semi-rigid pigtail / flexible jumper |
Connector body mounted on board edge; flexible cable soldered to a transition pad |
Note: The standard body material is gold-plated brass; dielectric is PTFE. Plating thickness and body alloy are verified during QC inspection at the JC manufacturing facility.
Application Domains
RPMCX connectors terminated to flexible cable appear primarily in systems where a subminiature snap-on interface is required and reverse-polarity keying is mandated by regulation or system architecture. Observed integration environments include:
- Wi-Fi / WLAN embedded radios — RP-MCX is commonly specified for internal antenna routing in access points and IoT gateways
- GPS / GNSS receiver modules — flexible pigtails interconnect the receiver board with an external active antenna
- Telematics and vehicle tracking units — compact footprint and snap-on coupling suit confined enclosures
- Handheld test probes and spectrum analyzer accessories — flexible cable assemblies allow repetitive flexure without connector damage
Comparative Reference: RP-MCX vs. Adjacent Interface Types
The following table provides dimensional and performance reference points between RPMCX, standard MCX, and RP-SMA for flexible cable assemblies. Values are typical and sourced from JC product engineering data.
| Parameter |
RPMCX |
MCX |
RP-SMA |
| Coupling Mechanism |
Snap-on |
Snap-on |
Threaded (1/4-36) |
| Outer Diameter (approx.) |
3.8 mm body |
3.8 mm body |
8.0 mm hex nut |
| Interface Keying |
Reverse polarity |
Standard |
Reverse polarity |
| Typ. Frequency Range |
DC – 6 GHz |
DC – 6 GHz |
DC – 12.4 GHz (cable dependent) |
| Mating Cycle Durability |
500 cycles minimum |
500 cycles minimum |
500 cycles minimum |
The snap-on engagement of RPMCX reduces installation time compared to threaded RP-SMA, while maintaining comparable electrical performance in the sub-6 GHz band. The reverse-polarity keying differentiates it from standard MCX for compliance with FCC Part 15 intentional radiator rules.
Assembly & Selection FAQ
What cable types are supported for flexible wire termination at JC?
Yangzhou Jingcheng Electronics provides RPMCX connectors compatible with RG-174, RG-316, RG-178, 1.13 mm and 1.37 mm micro-coaxial cables, as well as LMR-100 equivalents. The specific crimp die dimensions are matched to each cable's outer jacket and dielectric diameter. Connectors are supplied as piece-parts or assembled onto cable per customer specification.
How is the VSWR performance on a flexible cable assembly?
Typical VSWR for a straight RPMCX connector terminated on a 250 mm RG-316 assembly measures ≤ 1.25:1 up to 3 GHz, and ≤ 1.40:1 from 3 GHz to 6 GHz. Actual values are recorded during final RF testing at the Jingcheng facility using vector network analyzer equipment calibrated to 50 Ohm reference planes.
Are waterproof or extended-temperature versions available?
Custom configurations with IP67-rated sealing and extended temperature range of -65 degrees Celsius to +165 degrees Celsius can be quoted based on application requirements. Standard product operational range is -40 degrees Celsius to +85 degrees Celsius with gold-plated beryllium copper contacts.
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