Procurement Guide
Cable Assembly Ordering Guide: RFQ Checklist for Procurement
A complete specification is the key to a fast and accurate cable assembly quote. Use this checklist to describe connector ends, cable type, impedance, VSWR and production requirements before sending an RFQ.
- Reviewed by
- Cstone sourcing review team
- Last updated
- 2026-05-23
- Review basis
- RFQ review of drawings, specs, cable type and assembly requirements
Required specifications
These details are needed for a baseline cable assembly quote.
- Connector at End A: type and gender, for example SMA male, N-Type female or BNC jack
- Connector at End B: type and gender; it may differ from End A
- Cable type: for example RG-316, RG-58, RG-174, LMR-195, LMR-400 or Semi-rigid
- Length: in meters or inches, with tolerance when phase or cabinet fit is critical
- Impedance: 50Ω or 75Ω, matched to the connector family and system requirement
Optional specifications
These are not mandatory, but they help us recommend the best-fit solution and avoid quote revisions.
- Frequency range: operating band of the system or test setup
- Insertion loss budget: maximum acceptable loss in dB, especially for long LMR-400 runs
- VSWR requirement: maximum acceptable VSWR across the operating frequency range
- Environmental requirements: temperature, sealing, IP rating, vibration, UV or outdoor exposure
- Quantity and MOQ: prototype, pilot batch or production volume, plus target MOQ if known
- Labeling and packaging: labels, test reports, bagging, reel packaging or kit packing requirements
Common RF cable types
These are frequently requested cable families for RF assemblies. Final selection depends on frequency, loss, flexibility and size constraints.
| Cable | Impedance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| RG-316 | 50 Ω | Thin, flexible cable with PTFE dielectric; common in compact devices and inside equipment enclosures. |
| RG-58 | 50 Ω | General-purpose 50Ω coax used in lab setups, short interconnections and many legacy assemblies. |
| RG-174 | 50 Ω | Miniature flexible cable for space- and weight-sensitive assemblies. |
| LMR-195 | 50 Ω | Lower-loss cable in a compact size for Wi-Fi, GPS and IoT antenna leads. |
| LMR-400 | 50 Ω | Low-loss larger cable for longer antenna runs, base stations and outdoor feeders. |
| Semi-rigid | 50 Ω | Rigid coax with solid metal outer conductor for stable phase performance and high shielding. |
What makes a cable assembly RFQ stronger
The more complete the RFQ, the faster we can review alternatives, lead time and production fit.
- Assembly drawing or sketch, even hand-drawn, to remove ambiguity.
- MPN reference or datasheet for connectors if they are already selected.
- Critical parameters such as VSWR, insertion loss, phase stability or bend radius.
- Expected schedule and target budget so the sourcing review can prioritize options.
- Recurring order information, which may change MOQ, tooling and unit price assumptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information is needed for a cable assembly quote?
At minimum, provide connector type and gender at each end, cable type, length, impedance and quantity. Add VSWR, frequency range, MPN references, drawing and packaging needs when available.
Can I request custom cable lengths?
Yes. Cable assemblies are usually made to order. Include the length and tolerance, especially for phase-sensitive or tight cabinet installations.
Which cable types are commonly used?
Common choices include RG-316, RG-58, RG-174, LMR-195, LMR-400 and Semi-rigid. Selection depends on loss, flexibility, size, frequency and environment.
What affects cable assembly pricing?
Cable type, connector family, length, test requirements, labeling, packaging, order volume and MOQ all affect the final price and lead time.