UHF connector

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The UHF connector is a World War II threaded RF connector design, from an era when UHF referred to frequencies over 30 MHz. Originally intended for use as a video connector in RADAR applications, it was later used for RF applications.

UHF connectors are generally usable through what is now known as the VHF and HF frequencies and can handle RF power levels over one kilowatt. Despite the name it is rarely used for actual UHF frequencies as they don't work well above 300 MHz.

The most popular cable plug and chassis-mount socket carry the old Signal Corps nomenclatures PL-259 and SO-239, respectively. The PL-259 can be used with large diameter coaxial cable, such as RG-8/U and RG-9/U, and the smaller diameter RG-58/U and RG-59/U with an adapter sleeve. Technically, "PL-259" refers to one specific mechanical design, but the term is often used for any UHF cable plug. The thread is usually 5/8 inch 24tpi UNEF standard, however, UHF connectors with a similar, metric, thread have been produced^[1]. The center conductor jack on the SO-239 will also accept a banana plug.

UHF connectors were replaced in many applications by designs that have a more uniform impedance over the length of the connector, such as the N connector and the BNC connector, but they are still widely used in amateur radio, citizens' band radio, and marine VHF radio.

UHF connectors were also used for the input & output of composite video signals for older video equipment (such as VTRs & monitors) dating from the late 1970s and earlier. They were known by BBC engineers as 'F & E' connectors, after Films & Equipment, a manufacturer.

[edit] References

1. ^ IC-20 Instruction Manual, pp. 4, <http://www.icom.co.jp/manual/external/transceivers/IC-20.pdf>. Retrieved on 20 September 2007 

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