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Which connector fits which cable?
Technical Reference Guide
Which Connector Fits Which Cable?
A practical reference to help you choose connector families that fit your cable β especially when swapping between RG, LMR, and Belden equivalents.
π Rule of thumb: Cables in the same Category letter generally take the same connector mechanical set β the same pin, bushing, and ferrule sizes. For example, if you need connectors for Category C cables like LMR-195 or RG-122, you can usually use connector types sold “for RG-58“.
How the Categories Help
- Fast matching: Find your cable’s Category, then choose connectors advertised for any cable in that same Category.
- Cross-reference: Categories group common mechanical families across RG/LMR/Belden lines.
- Reduced guesswork: Useful when a connector lists RG58, but you’re using LMR195 (both Cat C).
Quick Chooser
- Find your cable in the table below; note its Category.
- Select connectors listed for any cable in that Category (e.g., “RG58/LMR195” for Category C).
- If your cable is Double Braided or Semi-Rigid, match the exact sub-category (e.g., B2, L2).
Important Caveats
- Centre conductor: Solid vs stranded can change pin fit (slit/unslit pins, drill sizes).
- Shield build: Single vs double braid or bonded foil can nudge ferrule OD β see B2/B3 sub-categories.
- Brand tolerances: Some series use tighter ferrule tolerances β check the connector’s specified crimp sizes.
- Semi-rigid: L/L2/L3/L4 use different build methods (formed/soldered). Treat each L-group as its own fit family.
π‘ Tip: If a connector datasheet specifies pin ID and ferrule ID, verify they match your cable’s centre conductor and overall braid/foil OD.
Cable List & Categories
Cables of the same Category will generally take the same connectors. Always check centre conductor and shield construction.
Buying Checklist
Before purchasing connectors, verify these key points.
β
Category Match
Choose connectors that list any cable in your Category.
π
Pin Size
Check pin ID vs cable centre conductor (solid/stranded gauge).
π§
Ferrule Size
Match ferrule ID to your cable’s braid/foil OD (watch double-braid).
βοΈ
Assembly Method
Crimp vs solder vs clamp per connector series and your tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do RG58 and LMR-195 use the same connectors?
Usually yes β both are Category C. Always confirm pin ID and ferrule size against your cable datasheet, especially if your cable is stranded or double braided.
What if my cable is double braided?
Match the sub-category (e.g., B2/B3) because the required ferrule ID can differ from single-braid variants due to the larger overall diameter.
Can I mix semi-rigid cables within a Category?
No β treat L/L2/L3/L4 as separate fit families. Semi-rigid assemblies often require formed/soldered parts and specific tooling for each size.
Which connectors should I stock for Category C?
SMA, N-Type and TNC families are the most common. Browse our coaxial connectors and filter by cable series.
Need Help Choosing?
Not sure which connector fits your cable? Send us your cable type or part number and we’ll recommend the right connectors.
Note: The Category system is a practical guide for mechanical compatibility. Always confirm exact dimensions on the connector datasheet before purchase, particularly for double-braided and semi-rigid cables.