2-4 Measuring Pin Depth
Maintenance Instructions
2-4
PN: 10410-00279 Rev. C
36585K/36585V RM
2-4
Measuring Pin Depth
Destructive pin depth of mating connectors is the most frequent cause of equipment failure in the field. When
an RF component is mated with a connector having a destructive pin depth, damage will likely occur to the RF
component connector.
A connector should be checked a minimum of once per day before use. Check the pin depth of a new connector
or a connector of unknown quality to determine if it is out of specification. If the connector is to be used on
equipment with unknown connector condition, the connector on the equipment should also be gauged.
For specific information on setting pin depths on sliding terminations, refer to the Vector Network Analyzer
Operation Manual.
Pin Depth Defined
Pin depth is measured from a connector reference plane to a defined point on the connector center pin
(depending on the connector type). A typical example of pin depth dimensions for a male and female connector
is shown in the figure below.
The mechanical gauging of coaxial connectors will detect and prevent the following problems:
Positive Pin Depth:
This can result in buckling of the fingers of the female center conductor or damage to the
internal structure of a device due to the axial forces generated.
Negative Pin Depth:
This can result in poor return loss, possibly unreliable connections, and even physical
breakdown under peak power conditions.
Caution
Destructive pin depth means a center pin is too long with respect to the connector’s reference plane.
This can damage the mating connector.
Some RF components may not have precision type connectors. Mating a precision connector to a
non-precision connector can result in connector damage or degraded performance.
Figure 2-1.
Pin Depth Example (N-Type Connector)