UHF Male to UHF Female Lightning Arrester - DC - 3 GHz

Product Overview

This UHF Male to UHF Female arrester is an RF surge protection point for 50 ohm coaxial runs from DC to 3 GHz. Its replaceable 90 V gas discharge tube is specified for 10 kA on an 8/20 us test wave. In normal service, the element remains high impedance while the line operates with 0.2 dB insertion loss; during a transient, it conducts toward the grounding lug.

Core Trade-off: This GDT arrangement keeps capacitance low and supports a replaceable protection element after a major event. Its trigger level is higher than that of diode-based protection, while the low-loss signal path is suited to many antenna-line installations.

Protection Mechanism and Construction

• Protection Element: The central body contains a replaceable 90 V gas discharge tube rated at 10 kA for the 8/20 us test wave. It can be accessed for replacement without removing the cable connection.
• Grounding Path: A side-mounted ring terminal connects the unit to the earth bar. The routing and length of this ground path influence the transient energy that reaches connected equipment.
• Body: The brass housing has corrosion-resistant plating and a bulkhead form for direct panel or bulkhead installation.
• Connector Interface: UHF Male to UHF Female interfaces accept compatible standard cable assemblies; apply the relevant connector torque guidance.

Reference Technical Specifications

The following figures are reference values for the UHF Male to UHF Female arrester. Confirm them against the final production configuration before use.

These reference values apply to this protection family and require confirmation against the final production configuration.

Engineering Comparison

• vs. Quarter-Wave Stub: Quarter-wave stubs are frequency-specific and ground DC through a narrow operating band. This UHF configuration is specified from DC to 3 GHz, making it applicable where a multi-band RF line is used.
• vs. Diode-Based Protector: Diode limiters can respond more quickly but introduce capacitance that can constrain frequency and power capability. This GDT unit lists 0.2 dB insertion loss and 150 W reference CW handling for applicable transmitter lines.
• vs. DC Block Surge Protector: A DC block prevents DC and low-frequency energy from continuing along the line but does not provide a high-energy earth route. This arrester directs a surge toward the grounding connection for applicable outdoor antenna installations.

Applications

• FM/AM broadcast and ham radio, PA system: For FM/AM broadcast, amateur radio, and PA systems, this UHF arrester can be installed in the antenna path to route induced surges toward earth before they reach radio equipment.
• Tower and Rooftop Installations: At a shelter or cabinet cable entry, the unit can establish the grounded protection point for the transmission line.
• Multi-Band Radio Sites: The DC to 3 GHz operating range supports radio sites that use compatible legacy or current bands without retuning the unit.
• Equipment Racks and Test Systems: Placed near an equipment input, the arrester helps direct transients coupled onto long cable runs away from connected modules or instrumentation.

Installation and Grounding Notes

• Grounding First: For broadcast and amateur-radio installations, connect the grounding lug to the earth bar using the shortest practical lead. Ground-path inductance affects the installed protection result, so avoid unnecessarily long or thin leads.
• Mounting: Install the bulkhead body at the applicable cable-entry protection point, keeping the grounding lug accessible and the unit within the site protection zone.
• Torque and Sealing: Tighten each connector according to its manufacturer guidance. For outdoor use, cover the connector interface with appropriate weatherproofing tape or a weather boot.

OEM and B2B Support

• OEM Customization: For volume requirements, connector combinations, alternative 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: Protective individual 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 test wave. After 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 arrester.

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

A: The listed passband values are 0.2 dB insertion loss and VSWR up to 1.3, providing a low-impact RF path for applicable antenna-line installations.

Q: Can I use this arrester indoors?

A: Yes. It may be fitted at the equipment end of a cable run as well as at an entry point where a second protection stage is required. For UHF Male to UHF Female lightning arrester selection, confirm connector compatibility and grounding access. This RF surge protector is used in compatible 50 ohm RF cable paths. The specified 3 GHz coaxial lightning protection range supports applicable radio installations. For FM/AM broadcast and ham radio surge protection, position the unit at the relevant cable entry. A UHF Male to UHF Female lightning arrester should be matched to the final production configuration. This RF surge protector requires an appropriate earth connection.