TNC Male to TNC Male Lightning Arrester - DC - 3 GHz

Product Overview

This inline TNC Male to TNC Male lightning arrester is intended for 50 ohm coaxial connections from DC to 3 GHz. A replaceable 90 V gas discharge tube, rated at 10 kA on the 8/20 us waveform, routes transient energy toward the grounding lug. During normal service, the RF path remains high impedance at the element and lists 0.2 dB insertion loss.

Core Trade-off: The replaceable GDT element provides a low-capacitance signal path for the stated application. Compared with diode devices, its triggering threshold is higher, while the configuration is suitable for compatible antenna-line installations.

Protection Mechanism and Construction

• Protection Element: The central housing contains a replaceable 90 V gas discharge tube with a 10 kA rating on the 8/20 us waveform. The element can be reached for service without removing the cable connection.
• Grounding Path: A side ring terminal connects the device to the earth bar. Ground-lead routing and length influence the transient energy that can continue toward connected equipment.
• Body: The inline brass housing has corrosion-resistant plating and is intended for installation in a compatible cable path.
• Connector Interface: TNC Male to TNC Male interfaces connect to compatible cable assemblies. Use the connector manufacturer guidance for tightening.

Reference Technical Specifications

The following values are reference information for this TNC Male to TNC Male lightning arrester and should be checked against the final production configuration.

These figures are reference values for this protection family and require confirmation against the final production configuration.

Engineering Comparison

• vs. Quarter-Wave Stub: A quarter-wave stub operates around its design frequency and grounds DC over a narrow band. The stated DC to 3 GHz range of this inline configuration supports compatible multi-band RF paths.
• vs. Diode-Based Protector: Diode limiters can respond more quickly but add capacitance that may affect frequency and power capability. This GDT configuration lists 0.2 dB insertion loss and 150 W reference CW handling for applicable lines.
• vs. DC Block Surge Protector: A DC block prevents DC and low-frequency energy from continuing along a line but does not offer a high-energy earth route. This unit directs a surge toward its grounding connection for suitable outdoor antenna installations.

Applications

• Aviation radio and outdoor comms, marine radio: For aviation radio and outdoor comms surge protection, this TNC Male to TNC Male lightning arrester can be placed in an antenna path to direct induced surges toward earth before they reach radio equipment.
• Tower and Rooftop Installations: At a shelter or cabinet cable entry, the unit can provide the grounded protection point for the associated transmission line.
• Multi-Band Radio Sites: The DC to 3 GHz operating range supports compatible legacy and current RF bands without adjustment of the unit.
• Equipment Racks and Test Systems: Placed close to an equipment input, the device helps direct transients coupled through long cable runs away from compatible modules or instrumentation.

Installation and Grounding Notes

• Grounding First: For aviation radio and outdoor comms surge protection, connect the grounding lug to the earth bar with a short practical lead. Ground-path inductance affects the installed result, so avoid unnecessarily long or thin connections.
• Mounting: Install the inline body at the relevant cable-entry protection point, keeping the grounding lug accessible and the unit within the applicable site protection zone.
• Torque and Sealing: Tighten connectors according to the applicable manufacturer guidance. Use suitable weatherproofing tape or a weather boot for outdoor connector interfaces.

OEM and B2B Support

• OEM Customization: For volume requirements, connector combinations, 90 V or 230 V discharge options, and special plating can be considered.
• Cable Assembly Options: Factory-terminated jumper assemblies with a pre-installed arrester may be supplied for compatible installation requirements.
• Packaging and Marking: Individual protective packaging, custom labels, and batch test reports may be requested.

FAQ

Q: How often does the gas discharge tube need replacement?

A: The 90 V tube has a 10 kA rating on the 8/20 us waveform. Following a major surge event, test the element; replace it if leakage is present or if it does not pass the hold-off test, without replacing the entire unit.

Q: Will this TNC Male to TNC Male lightning arrester affect my DC - 3 GHz signal?

A: The stated passband values are 0.2 dB insertion loss and VSWR up to 1.25, providing a low-impact path for applicable antenna-line installations.

Q: Can I use this arrester indoors?

A: Yes. It may be installed at the equipment end of a cable run as well as at an entry point where an additional protection stage is required. A TNC Male to TNC Male lightning arrester should be selected for compatible TNC cable assemblies and grounding access. This RF surge protector supports the listed 50 ohm line arrangement. The stated 3 GHz coaxial lightning protection range applies to compatible RF paths. For aviation radio and outdoor comms surge protection, position the unit at the relevant cable entry. A TNC Male to TNC Male lightning arrester should be checked against the final production configuration. This RF surge protector requires an appropriate earth connection. Before installation, review the cable route, the selected connector interfaces, the available bonding point, and the environment surrounding the equipment. Keep the protective device accessible for inspection and ensure that the enclosure, panel opening, or cable-entry location supports the selected inline arrangement. Confirm that the earth conductor follows the site grounding practice and that the connection remains secure after routine maintenance. At exposed locations, consider the condition of weatherproofing, cable support, strain relief, and any enclosure sealing used around the RF path. During commissioning, inspect connector engagement, verify the continuity of the grounding path, and record the installed location for service reference. After a significant electrical event, examine the protection element and associated cable interfaces before returning the system to normal operation. These steps help align the installed assembly with the intended equipment layout without changing the listed electrical reference values. The installation review can also include the cable-entry route, available service clearance, physical support of the cable, and the location of the associated radio equipment. Identify any points where the coaxial line changes direction, enters a cabinet, passes through a panel, or is exposed to moisture. Review whether the selected mounting location allows the grounding conductor to remain direct and practical while avoiding unnecessary bends or unsupported sections. Confirm that there is adequate room to connect, inspect, and maintain the TNC interfaces without placing strain on the cable assembly. Where the device is located near other equipment, keep the installation arrangement consistent with the operating and maintenance requirements of the site. Document the selected mounting point, cable orientation, and earth connection so that future inspection can use the same reference. Before system handover, verify that all mechanical connections are secure, the protective housing is accessible, and any outdoor sealing is complete. If the radio installation changes, reassess the cable path and grounding arrangement before moving or replacing the device. This planning information is intended to support a careful installation review and does not replace the final product documentation or site-specific electrical requirements.