The Amphenol RF 083-8SP-RFX is a UHF-series plug, male pin connector designed for RG-8 class cable (RG-8, 8A, 9, 9A, 9B, 87, 213, 214, 225, 302, 393). It's the threaded-mating, field-installable crimp version of the classic PL-259 form factor, built for low-frequency RF applications up to 300 MHz.
The cable group covers the RG-8 family — RG-8, 8A, 9, 9A, 9B, 87, 213, 214, 225, 302, and 393. These share a similar outer diameter and dielectric size, so the crimp dimensions in the connector body and ferrule are set for that range. Termination is crimp for both the shield (via the ferrule) and the center contact.
300 MHz Ceiling — Why the Frequency Matters
The 300 MHz maximum frequency is the hard limit for this connector interface. UHF connectors (PL-259 / SO-239 style) are non-constant impedance designs — they don't maintain a controlled 50-ohm line through the interface. Below 300 MHz, the mismatch is acceptable for most applications like HF/VHF radios, CB antennas, and low-power transmitters. Push it above 300 MHz and the impedance discontinuity causes measurable VSWR and insertion loss. If your signal path runs at 400 MHz or higher, an N-type connector (like the 082-4425-1003) with 50-ohm constant impedance and 11 GHz capability is the correct choice.
500 Mating Cycles — What That Means in the Field
The 500 mating cycle rating is typical for threaded UHF connectors. The silver-plated center contact will show wear before the brass body — silver is softer than gold and oxidizes faster, but for occasional disconnect/reconnect in a fixed installation (antenna swap, test lead change), 500 cycles is more than adequate. For daily mating in a test lab, consider the gold-plated center contact version (182130) which gives the same cycle life but better corrosion resistance in humid environments.