BNC

BNC ConnectorBasics

What are BNC connectors?

Coaxial cables come with different designs for their connectors at the end of the cable, depending on the application. Probably the most common design for coaxial connectors is the BNC connector. BNC connectors come as female or male.

Where are BNC connectors used?

In the past, BNC cables with the corresponding connectors were used as network cables. In the field of Ethernet connection, however, the coaxial BNC cable is now only used in exceptional cases. However, this does not mean that coaxial cables are no longer used. Especially in radio and event technology, BNC connectors are widely used. They are used, for example, to connect antennas of wireless microphone systems and are also used in professional video technology. Many connections are also made using BNC connectors in measurement technology. Laboratory equipment in research, such as oscilloscopes, frequency counters and other measuring instruments, are equipped with BNC connectors.

Specifications of the BNC connector

A BNC connector is a connector for the high frequency range. The connector has a bayonet lock. It is used for transmissions at frequencies up to 4 GHz and is always used in conjunction with a coaxial cable. Typically, two connector types are found for cables with impedances of either 50 or 75 ohms. In the event technology and video surveillance environment, for example, RG-59 cables with an impedance of 75 ohms are found. PC networks use RG-58 cables with an impedance of 50 ohms. The connector variant with threaded instead of bayonet lock is known as TNC connector. The screw connection reliably ensures that the connection between BNC plug and BNC socket does not come loose.

What is a coaxial connector?

BNC connectors are used exclusively with coaxial cables. The cable has a single-core inner conductor, which is separated from the next layer by an insulator. The next layer in the cable has the function of an electrical shield. It consists of a metal mesh, a metallic foil or a combination of both. This shielding is also called the outer conductor. The outermost layer of a coaxial cable is a jacket with a resistant plastic. Coaxial cables are known for their good shielding and interference-free operation. Due to the dense shielding of the cable, the signal can hardly be influenced by foreign electromagnetic fields.

What do you have to look for when buying BNC connectors?

A coaxial cable can be assembled with very different connectors. It is important to choose the right connector. Only the appropriate C59 connector may be attached to an RG-59 coaxial cable. For areas with special fire protection regulations, halogen-free coaxial cables are available for purchase, which do not release toxic gases in the event of a fire.

Adapter BNC connector

A wide range of different BNC adapters are available in stores. A splitter ensures that a signal with BNC input is routed to two BNC outputs in parallel. If you want to make a long cable out of several BNC coax cables, a corresponding adapter for the extension will help you. Pay attention to whether you want to connect sockets or plugs. You will need a 90-degree BNC angle adapter if the stiff coaxial cable has to make a sharp bend behind cabinets or around door frames.