UFB311A-2-2880-300300 Carlisle UTiFLEX Flexible Microwave Cable Assembly (24 Feet)

The Amphenol CIT / Carlisle / Micro-Coax UTiFLEX Series Flexible Microwave Cable Assemblies are constructed using a low or ultra low density PTFE dielectric offering excellent loss characteristics, outstanding phase stability, and unsurpassed flexibility compared to standard flexible cables - all without sacrificing mechanical integrity. CarlisleIT has greatly increased connector reliability through a unique connector attachment that withstands mechanical and thermal stresses far better than standard connectors.

The center conductor is solid or stranded silver-plated copper wire per ASTM B-298 or silver-plated copper clad steel wire per ASTM B-501. In comparison to equal size center conductors, the solid center conductor has less RF resistance, lower attenuation, and is more amplitude stable with flexure. The stranded center conductor is more flexible and more phase stable with flexure.

These cables use low density PTFE per MIL-DTL-17, with a dielectric constant ranging from 1.4 to 1.7 depending on the cable type. Most transmission losses are caused either directly or indirectly by the dielectric. In addition, the dielectric determines the velocity of propagation, temperature range, power rating, phase and amplitude stability, and contributes to cable flexibility. The UTiFLEX Series PTFE dielectric is ideal for these critical parameters due to its low density and low thermal coefficient of expansion.

For the inner shield, silver-plated copper tape per ASTM B-298, has been helically wrapped with 40% minimum overlap between layers. This shield allows for outstanding flexibility while providing 100% coverage. By closely monitoring the precision wrapping process and carefully matching the elasticity of the dielectric to the properties of the silver-plated copper tape, uniform impedance and ideal contact between individual layers of the shield are maintained.

For the outer shield, silver-plated copper wire per ASTM B-298, has been tightly braided over the inner shield. The braids are primarily a strength member that also add additional RF shielding. For applications where weight is critical such as spaceflight, Carlisle uses ARACON as the braiding material.