RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female Lightning Arrester - DC - 6 GHz

Product Overview

The RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester is an in-line RF surge protector for antenna systems operating from DC to 6 GHz. It uses a replaceable 90 V gas discharge tube (GDT) rated for 10 kA on an 8/20 us surge waveform. During normal RF operation, the GDT remains high impedance so the coaxial path can carry the signal with 0.3 dB insertion loss. When a lightning-induced transient appears on the line, the tube switches rapidly and directs the surge toward the grounding connection rather than the connected radio equipment.

This GDT-based arrangement is intended for installations that need low capacitance and a low-loss RF path. The replaceable protection element can be inspected or changed following a major surge event. Compared with diode-style solutions, the triggering threshold is higher, but the design is well suited to many outdoor antenna-line applications where maintaining RF performance is important.

Protection Mechanism and Construction

• Protection Element: The central GDT is specified at 90 V with 10 kA (8/20 us) surge capability. Its serviceable design allows replacement without removing the complete cable assembly.
• Grounding Path: A side-mounted ring terminal connects the arrester to the site earth bar. A short, direct ground lead helps limit the transient energy that can continue toward protected equipment.
• Body: The bulkhead-mount body is machined from brass and finished with corrosion-resistant plating, allowing it to be fixed directly to a panel or cable-entry surface.
• Connector Interface: RP-TNC male and RP-TNC female interfaces connect to compatible standard cable assemblies without requiring an adapter change.

Reference Technical Specifications

The values below describe the referenced configuration of the RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester. Confirm final specifications against the production configuration before system deployment.

These reference figures apply to this protection family and should be verified for the final supplied configuration.

Engineering Comparison

• vs. Quarter-Wave Stub: Quarter-wave devices work around a selected design frequency and ground DC, so their usable range is comparatively narrow. The RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester supports a DC - 6 GHz passband, making it practical where a multi-band antenna line is used.
• vs. Diode-Based Protector: Diode limiters can react quickly but may add capacitance that affects high-frequency use and power capacity. This arrester is specified with 0.3 dB insertion loss and 100 W reference power handling for RF transmission-line use.
• vs. DC Block Surge Protector: A DC block prevents DC and low-frequency signals from passing but does not create the same direct earth route for high-energy surge diversion. This design uses the grounding connection to provide that path for outdoor antenna installations.

Applications

• WiFi 6 access point, outdoor AP, MIMO antenna: The RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester can be installed on antenna lines serving WiFi 6 access points, outdoor access points, and MIMO antennas to help manage induced transients before they reach the radio.
• Tower and Rooftop Installations: Install near the cable entry to a shelter, enclosure, or cabinet so the transmission line has a grounding point at the system boundary.
• Multi-Band Radio Sites: The DC - 6 GHz frequency range can support antenna lines across several radio bands without a separate retuning step.
• Equipment Racks and Test Systems: The RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester may be used at an equipment input to route surge energy away from modules or instruments connected through longer coaxial runs.

Installation and Grounding Notes

• Grounding First: Connect the grounding lug to the earth bar using the shortest practical conductor. The effectiveness of the RF surge protector depends substantially on this low-inductance grounding route.
• Mounting: Secure the bulkhead body at the cable-entry point with the grounding lug oriented for a direct lead to ground, inside the site lightning-protection zone.
• Torque and Sealing: Use the connector manufacturer’s specified torque. For exterior locations, protect the connector interface with appropriate weatherproofing tape or a weather boot.

OEM and B2B Support

• OEM Customization: For volume orders, custom connector combinations, alternate 90 V or 230 V discharge options, and special plating may be available.
• Cable Assembly Options: Factory-terminated jumper assemblies with the RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester pre-installed can be supplied for simplified system integration.
• Packaging and Marking: Protective packaging, customized labels, and batch test reports are available on request.

FAQ

Q: When should the gas discharge tube be replaced?

A: The 90 V tube is referenced for 10 kA (8/20 us). After a significant surge, test the tube; replace it if leakage is present or it does not pass a hold-off check.

Q: Will the RP-TNC Male to RP-TNC Female lightning arrester affect a DC - 6 GHz signal?

A: The listed insertion loss is 0.3 dB and maximum VSWR is 1.35 across the stated passband, supporting use in antenna-line applications with limited RF impact.

Q: Can this arrester be used indoors?

A: Yes. It can be fitted at the equipment end of a coaxial run or at the cable entry point as part of the site grounding arrangement.