ML248xx, ML249xA MM PN: 13000-00164 Rev. K C-1
Appendix C — Connector Care
C-1 Introduction
This appendix provides instructions and discussion on the care and use of precision RF connectors.
C-2 Connector Do’s and Don’ts
• These are high frequency connectors so be gentle and handle them with care.
• Avoid touching connector mating planes with bare hands. Natural skin oils and microscopic dirt
particles are very hard to remove.
• Keep connectors clean.
• When using cotton swabs to clean connectors, make sure that you don’t damage the center conductor.
• Always check the pin depth of a new connector before use to determine if they are out of spec. One bad
connector can damage many.
• The connector can be damaged by turning in the wrong direction. Turning right tightens and turning left
loosens. If you have trouble remembering, use the mnemonic “righty tighty, lefty loosely”.
• Always use an appropriate torque wrench.
• Put dust caps on the connector after use.
• Never store adapters loose in a box, in a desk, or in a drawer.
• Calibration kit components are a unique set. Keep them together.
C-3 Coaxial Connector Care
Most coax connectors are assembled into a system and forgotten, but some, especially on test equipment are
used almost continuously. The care and cleaning of these connectors is critical to accurate and reliable
performance. Remember that all connectors have a limited life time and usually a maximum
connect/disconnect specification, typically about 5,000 connections. Most will last well beyond this number, but
poor usage and poor care can destroy a connector well before that number. Good connector performance can be
achieved with the following:
• Periodic visual inspection
• Cleaning
• Proper connection and disconnection techniques using torque wrench
• Appropriate gauging techniques
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