The global demand for high-speed data transmission in mobile networks is experiencing rapid growth. Selecting the right connectivity products or solutions for the link between BBU/PSU, RRH, and the antenna is a crucial element for optimizing network performance.
Rosenberger, as a technology leader with extensive experience in RF and fiber optics, is dedicated to innovative product development and fostering long-term relationships with its customers.
S-Link Feeder Cables
Rosenberger S-Link Flexible Cables feature annularly corrugated outer conductors and are mainly used for site solutions and indoor coverage solutions in RF communication systems.
Rosenberger S-Link Flexible Cables provide excellent electrical and mechanical performance to address key parameters: low VSWR, low loss, and excellent 3rd order intermodulation. They ensure high stability and durability at high power levels amid a wide range of operating environments. They are IP68 compliant and can be installed quickly and easily.
The cable is constructed with an inner conductor, foam dielectric, outer conductor, and protective jacket. Use of high-quality copper and a unique Argon welding process ensures low loss and better shielding, cable flexibility, and waterproofing.
Rosenberger provides a complete low loss coaxial cable series from 1/4" to 1-5/8" to meet a wide variety of applications. Through its global sales network, Rosenberger has convenient and flexible delivery options to meet the needs of global customers. Rosenberger provides superior quality and outstanding performance in low loss RF coaxial cables which are widely used in the communications industry.
S-Link Connectors
Rosenberger offers a complete range of S-Link connectors, covering 4.3-10, N and 7/16 DIN series, which are compatible with S-Link cable sizes ranging from 1/4" to 1-5/8". As a result, a wide variety of connector and cable solutions are available to meet the needs of many RF/Wireless applications. With excellent electrical, mechanical, and environmental performance, S-Link® connectors ensure RF cable lines and systems are durable and reliable.
S-Link Jumpers
S-Link Jumpers are commonly used for the connection of RF cable lines with antennas or radios. They are ideal for daily use even under difficult conditions and feature the following characteristics:
- Long trouble-free service life as a result of tried and tested materials and production technologies.
- Designed for outdoor applications under extreme environmental conditions, featuring longitudinal waterproofing.
- High flexibility and small bending diameters
- Specially developed connectors with automated soldering technology to guarantee superior electrical characteristics:
- Screening attenuation ＜ -120dB
- Passive intermodulation IM3≤-160dBc
- Excellent return loss due to silver-plated connectors and attenuation-optimized cable material.
- Integrated lighting protection technology saves setup time, which is site-optimized and reduces system attenuation.
- Hot-polyamide molding between connector and cable jacket.
- Waterproof performance up to IP68
- Cable jacket constructed of flame-retardant, halogen-free material (FRNC)
Connectivity Solutions for Radios and Antennas
4.3-10 Connector Series
As the world's leading provider of RF technologies, Rosenberger was an active partner in the development of the 4.3-10 connector series for mobile communication applications. This series quickly established itself as the standard interface for connection solutions for base station antennas.
The 4.3-10 series is a low PIM (Passive Intermodulation) system for frequencies up to 12 GHz for use in mobile communication applications. It is designed to meet the growing performance needs of mobile network equipment, when connecting, for example, RRUs to antennas.
Key Features:
- Compact connector sizes
- Best electrical performance
- Low PIM and coupling torque
- Easy installation
Versatile Design:
- Three coupling mechanisms: screw, quick-lock/push-pull, and hand-screw
- Universal jack design compatible with all plug types
Very Low PIM – Independent of Torque
The 4.3-10 connector series is known for its excellent electrical performance and exceptionally low passive intermodulation, regardless of torque applied. The 4.3-10 connectors, owing to their dimensions, represent a natural evolution from the existing connector systems in the mobile communications industry. This advancement separates the electrical and mechanical planes, resulting in a substantial reduction in coupling torque.
One Jack for All Plug Types
The 4.3-10 connectors offer three versions: screw-on (HEX), hand-screw, and push-pull coupling mechanisms. Thanks to its versatile mechanical design, the universal 4.3-10 jack type can be seamlessly paired with all plug types, providing compatibility across the board.
Screw Type (HEX)
- Screw type with recommended tightening torque of 5 Nm.
- Recommended for harsh environments.
- Hand screw (no torque)
- The Push-Pull/Quick-lock Type features a special release inhibition mechanism to prevent unintentional nut loosening.
- Quick connection type
- No tools needed
NEX10 Connector Series
A Natural Evolution
In 2018 and beyond, the joint efforts and collaboration of three prominent RF connector manufacturers—Rosenberger, HUBER+SUHNER, and Radiall—led to the official release and mass production of the NEX10 connector. The first radios featuring NEX10 became readily available as a result.
The objective was to develop a smaller coaxial connector system capable of meeting most of the existing and future demands of small cell networks for 4G and 5G networks. Since then, the NEX10 has gained widespread adoption, especially in applications with limited space, surpassing the larger 4.3-10 and other interfaces. This is essential with the rollout of 5G and the telecommunications industry’s rapid transition towards the small cell approach, where radios and antennas are installed on light poles and street signs rather than high radio towers or roof tops.
As a result, the equipment for such installations is becoming ever smaller; therefore, demanding highly compact, high performing coaxial RF connectors. The growing demand for new generation equipment within the market requires a high-performance solution with exceptional benefits and features. 5G is expected to be 100 times faster than 4G LTE and will provide a tenfold increase in broadband connection speeds. To achieve this, many more radio heads for deployment in small cell sites will be necessary. This underscores the increasing importance of reliable and cost-effective RF connectivity in enabling numerous micro cell applications, making it more mission-critical than ever.
Enhanced Protection
Drawing on lessons learned from the 4.3-10, the NEX10® has evolved into a compact and exceptionally robust connector, making it ideal for applications with limited space.
The NEX10® connector series, distinguished by its optimized design rather than a mere scaled-down version of the 4.3-10, effectively tackles the inherent weak points of the 4.3-10 connector family. This comprehensive approach was taken during the design and development phase, ensuring enhanced performance and reliability.
Particular attention was focused on the following areas:
- Ensuring protection with a slotted outer contact element that is safeguarded against damage.
- Enhancing protection for slotted contact elements by surrounding them with dielectric material.
- Designing the jack outer contact without fragile elements to mitigate potential damage in case of an incorrect connector insertion.
Key Features
The NEX10® stands out with impressive PIM stability at -166 dBc, a versatile coupling mechanism (quick lock and screw), and a robust yet compact design. With a flange height of only 12.7mm, it claims the title of the smallest coax connector system in the market for small cell mobile communication.
- Small size, 12.7 mm flange height
- Screw and push-pull coupling
- -166 dBc PIM, independent of torque
- Robust design for outdoor use
- Operating up to 20 GHz with excellent return loss
- Cable connectors for up to ½” corrugated cables
- Blind mate for panel connection as well as test and measurement applications
Application Examples
The NEX10 interface is extremely versatile and highly suited for applications requiring PIM stability in compact spaces. For example, small cells, low-power base stations, distributed multi-operator/multi-band antenna systems (DAS), Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO), and in-building architecture and street furniture.
NEX10 proves to be the ideal choice for establishing fast and dependable connections in diverse limited-space applications. Whether it's small cell antennas and street furniture in urban settings or base station antennas with a high number of ports, NEX10 excels in meeting the connectivity needs of various scenarios.
In essence, the demand for RF signal transmission in mobile networks is growing, particularly in constrained spaces. Overcoming the challenge of minimizing signal interference, and the associated risk of increased PIM, becomes crucial. The NEX10 connector series has already demonstrated its effectiveness in addressing these challenges, particularly in the demanding application areas highlighted in this note.
Moreover, it is future proofed for 5G and able to accommodate the associated higher modulation challenges concerned. Now accessible on a broad scale through the NEX10 Consortium and its licensees, mobile operators and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) can rely on a global network of suppliers, ensuring widespread availability.
In conclusion, the escalating global demand for high-speed data transmission in mobile networks underscores the critical importance of choosing optimal connectivity products. The link between BBU/PSU, RRH, and the antenna plays a pivotal role in optimizing network performance.
Rosenberger, distinguished as a technology leader with profound expertise in RF and fiber optics, stands committed to innovative product development and cultivating enduring relationships with its customers. This commitment positions Rosenberger as a reliable partner in addressing the evolving challenges of the dynamic mobile network landscape.
