Coaxial Switch Receptacle for RF Test and Antenna Ports
The Hirose MS-156C(20) is a surface-mount coaxial switch receptacle from the MS-156C series, designed as a female socket with an internal switch feature. It mates with a 4 mm diameter plug, making it suitable for RF switching applications such as antenna port selection or calibration access on PCB assemblies.
What the 11 GHz and 50 Ohm Ratings Mean for Your RF Path
The 11 GHz frequency ceiling means this connector can handle high-speed digital or RF signals up into the X-band, but above that the insertion loss and VSWR will exceed the design targets. The internal switch creates a normally-closed RF path that opens when the plug is inserted, which is useful for switching between an internal antenna and an external test port without adding a separate relay.
Mating and Termination — What Connects Here
This receptacle uses a snap-on fastening type for quick mating with the corresponding 4 mm diameter plug. The gold body and gold-plated center contact (copper alloy) provide corrosion resistance and maintain contact integrity over the rated 100 mating cycles. For repeated test-port use, that cycle life is adequate; for a permanent install it's more than enough.