Procurement Guide
Cable Assembly Ordering Guide: RFQ Checklist for Procurement
A complete specification in your RFQ is the key to a fast and accurate cable assembly quote. Use this checklist to prepare.
Required Specifications
These are needed for a baseline cable assembly quote:
- Connector at End A: type and gender (e.g., SMA male, N female)
- Connector at End B: type and gender (may differ from End A)
- Cable type: e.g., RG-316, LMR-400, semi-rigid
- Length: in meters or inches, with tolerance if needed
- Impedance: 50Ω or 75Ω
Optional Specifications
These are not mandatory, but help us recommend the best-fit solution:
- Frequency range: operating frequency band of your system
- Insertion loss budget: maximum acceptable loss (in dB)
- VSWR requirement: maximum acceptable VSWR
- Environmental requirements: temperature range, moisture sealing (IP rating), vibration, UV resistance
- Quantity: order volume (prototype, small batch, mass production)
- Labeling and packaging: marking requirements, test reports
Common RF Cable Types
Below are the most commonly requested cable types for RF assemblies:
| Cable | Impedance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| RG-316 | 50 Ω | Thin, flexible cable with PTFE dielectric. Used in compact devices and inside equipment enclosures. |
| RG-58 | 50 Ω | Common general-purpose cable. Frequently used in laboratory setups and short interconnections. |
| RG-174 | 50 Ω | Miniature flexible cable. Suited for applications where size and weight are critical. |
| LMR-195 | 50 Ω | Low loss in a compact size. Used for antenna cables in Wi-Fi, GPS, and IoT devices. |
| LMR-400 | 50 Ω | Low loss, larger diameter. Standard choice for long antenna runs and base station feeds. |
| Semi-rigid | 50 Ω | Rigid coaxial cable with solid metal outer conductor. Provides stable phase performance and high shielding effectiveness. |
What Makes a Cable Assembly RFQ Stronger
The more complete your RFQ, the more accurate and faster our quote will be. Here is what helps us give a better answer:
- An assembly drawing or sketch (even hand-drawn) — eliminates ambiguity
- MPN reference or datasheet for connectors, if already selected
- Indication of critical parameters — helps prioritize during selection
- Expected delivery timeline and target budget — helps us suggest the best option
- Information about recurring orders — may affect pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
What information is needed for a cable assembly quote?
Minimum required data: (1) connector type at each end (e.g., SMA male to N male), (2) cable type (e.g., RG-316, LMR-400), (3) assembly length, (4) impedance (50Ω or 75Ω). Additional parameters such as frequency range, insertion loss budget, and operating conditions help us suggest the best-fit solution.
Can I request custom cable lengths?
Yes. Cable assemblies are typically made to order, allowing you to specify any required length. Include the length in your RFQ, along with tolerance if it is critical for your application (e.g., ±5 mm for phase-sensitive systems).
What cable types are commonly used in RF assemblies?
Common types include: RG-316 (thin, flexible, PTFE), RG-58 (general-purpose 50Ω), RG-174 (miniature), LMR-195 (low loss, compact), LMR-400 (low loss for long runs), and semi-rigid cable (stable phase, high shielding). Selection depends on frequency, loss, flexibility, and size requirements.
What factors affect cable assembly pricing?
Key factors include: cable type (specialty low-loss cables cost more than standard), connector type (precision and high-frequency connectors are more expensive), length, order volume (larger quantities typically reduce per-unit cost), and additional requirements (testing, labeling, special packaging). Submit an RFQ with full specifications for an accurate quote.