To design, manufacture and assess the reliability of a new open RF interface for connectors and cable assemblies allowing a robust fast locking mechanism and frequency operating up to W band.

The number of RF connector interfaces available for use in the space industry is very limited. The most common and widespread interface is SMA. For high operating frequency, equipment manufacturers typically use the SMA2.4 (up to 50 GHz) and 1.85 (up to 65 GHz). For the last 15 years , Sub Miniature Push-on (SMP) interface has gained a lot of popularity for phased array radars because of its small size and ease of use. In addition, only the SMP fast-locking interface includes the advantage of a robust locking mechanism which dramatically increases the retention force of the interface and prevents any accidental disconnection. However, existing SMP fast locking interfaces for connectors are mono-sources (not compatible between different connectors? manufacturers) and are limited in frequency (only up to Ka- band).Today, the use of higher frequencies is becoming necessary to support feeder links due to the larger bandwidth requirement. Q-, V- and W- frequency bands are now being considered as the baseline for next-generation satellite broadband networks. Therefore, generic RF connectors with common interface that cover frequencies up to W band are needed together with the advantages of the fast locking mechanism and the suitability for cable-to-cable or cable-to-module interconnections inside the equipment.With this type of, innovative,solution, tremendous savings could be also achieved in terms of integration costs, thanks to the quick lock connection (time saving) and thanks to the easy to use concept for high frequencies (decreasing the risk of equipment damage). Finally, it gives the possibility to increase density of RF channels, both because it is smaller than current standards such as SMA and SMP, and because use of a torque wrench is not required.This activity encompasses the following Tasks:- Literature Review and Market Survey- Technology and Process Review for the selection of promising solutions- Development and Manufacturing of new open RF interface with fast locking mechanism- Electrical Characterization and reliability assessment of the new developments for space application, including thermal cycling, construction analysis and mechanical testing.- Identification of Limitations, Improvements and roadmap for future space qualification