Coaxial connector assembly is where mechanical precision meets RF performance. A coax joint that looks perfect can still ruin a link if the center pin is poorly joined or the interface is off-spec. This guide covers the practical path from cable prep to a verified SMA, SMB or RG58 connection, and how automation keeps every joint within spec.
A coax connector carries signal on a center conductor wrapped by dielectric and a shield. The critical operations are:
For automated center-pin work, see our center-pin welder and center-pin riveter.
| Method | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tin-wire welding | RG58, SMA, 178 antennas | Precise solder control; low, stable resistance. See the tin-wire welding machine. |
| Controlled-force riveting | 174-line, RG58 center pins | Mechanical join with digitized recipes and MES-ready data. See the 174/RG58 riveter. |
A focused cell combines center-pin joining, body assembly, testing and marking into sequenced stations. One 15-station line runs at 500–600 pieces/hour with a single operator and above 98% yield across 174/SMA/SMB/GPS antennas. Our SMA/SMB antenna assembly machine and RF connector automation landing page describe the full workflow.
Stable, repeatable processes and 100% in-line inspection are what hold these numbers across a batch. Our RF connector automation guide and antenna assembly automation article go deeper.
Match the method to your cable and reliability spec, confirm multi-type change-over (SMA/SMB/RG58/174/GPS), and require per-part-number recipe storage plus MES data export. For export-oriented buyers, our RF connector equipment export page covers compliance and support.