Radio frequency (RF) connector

Abstract

Methods and systems are described for a male RF connector. Embodiments can comprise an outer nut; said outer nut containing a channel extending along the circumference of the outer nut, the channel further having a bump. The male RF connector can also comprise an inner connector body for inserting in a female RF connector; a stub mounted on the inner connector body. The stub can extend through the channel of the outer nut, the bump acting as a friction point for the stub and creating a locking position.

Description

RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) CONNECTORCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED INFORMATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of United States of America priority application No. 63 / 627,517 filed on January 31, 2024, titled “Radio Frequency (RF) Connector.”TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to radio frequency (RF) connectors.BACKGROUND

[0003] RF connectors have become both critical and weak links in the deployment of modern radio systems. For example, the output of Remote Radio Heads now feature between two and eight ports, each capable of accommodating more than five layers with a total power of up to 120 Watts per port. This represents a doubling of the power and layers compared to just five years ago.

[0004] One of the major challenges has been ensuring the proper connection of these RF connectors. Torque value and compliance issues in the field have caused problems, leading to increased costs for deployment and the need to revisit sites to test and correct these issues. The proper connection and torque have also been directly linked to the occurrence of Passive Intermodulation (PIM) problems. For example, United States Patent No. 2540012A describes an electrical connector, but it is too big and not robust and stable enough to be useful in today’s market. Common connectors today are based on a Group design, described in “New 4.3- 10 connector system for the mobile communication market,” Spinner, Press Release Munich, July 18th, 2013. This design was jointly developed by connector suppliers HUBER+SUHNER, Rosenberger, SPINNER and Telegartner. But it has problems, such as described below.

[0005] The Standard 4.3-10 connector is a type of coaxial RF connector that has gained popularity in recent years. It is widely used in wireless communication systems, particularly in cellular networks. The 4.3-10 connector features a low PIM design, making it suitable for high- performance applications. This connector offers a compact size and lightweight construction,which is advantageous for installation in limited spaces or areas with weight restrictions. The key characteristics of the 4.3-10 connector include excellent electrical performance and durability. It provides low insertion loss and high return loss, ensuring efficient signal transmission with minimal interference. The connector's interlock mechanism ensures a secure and reliable connection, preventing accidental disconnections. Additionally, it offers high power handling capabilities, making it suitable for applications with high power requirements. One of the notable features of the 4.3-10 connector is its ability to accommodate both coaxial and rectangular waveguides. This versatility allows for flexibility in system design and installation. The 4.3-10 connector complies with industry standards and specifications, ensuring compatibility with various equipment and infrastructure. Its design also incorporates sealing features, which provide protection against environmental factors such as moisture and dust, enhancing its reliability and longevity. Overall, the 4.3-10 connector is a reliable and efficient RF connector that meets the demands of modern wireless communication systems. It offers excellent electrical performance, durability, versatility, and compatibility, making it a preferred choice for many applications in the telecommunications industry.

[0006] There are three main versions of this RF connector as seen in Figure 1: traditional hand screw type 100, screw type 150 (requires torque wrench to tighten properly) and push-pull type 170.

[0007] Today, the screw type 150 is the most commonly used connector in the industry. However, there is a risk of under or over tightening the connector due to inaccurate torque wrenches or the absence of torque wrench usage. The use of a wrench requires space to both fit and torque the nut, so valuable space on the radios and antennas is taken up. Furthermore, most major connector and jumper manufacturers now offer products with 4.3-10 connectors.

[0008] Turning to the push-pull type 170 of connector, its operation is illustrated in Figures 2A-2C. Figure 2A, One step involves pushing male connector assembly 210 onto female connector 205 until compression ring and / or grip teeth securely hold the connection onto the chassis 250, to complete the weatherproofing of complete connection the weatherproof boot 215 is slid over the complete male female assembly by movement 216. In Figure 2B, to loosen the connection the outer nut 210 of connector is pulled away from the connection in movement 217, which loosens the ring or grip teeth, and male and female RF connectors can be disconnected. Figure 2C shows existing push-pull type connectors disadvantage, where after the weatherproofboot 215 is pushed towards the chassis 250, the weatherproof boot material may cause bounce back movement 218 that pulls back the outer nut 210 just enough to loosen the connection between corresponding male and female mated connections. Since only a little pull back on outer nut 210 is needed to loosen the connection to the female RF connector 205, the components can easily loosen and become disconnected.SUMMARY

[0009] The RF connector comprises an outer nut, the outer nut comprising a channel extending at least partially along a circumference of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump extending at least partially into the channel. It further comprises an inner connector body within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into a female RF connector with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; and wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position.

[0010] Another embodiment comprises a computing device. The computing devices comprises: processing circuitry; power supply circuitry configured to supply power to the processing circuitry; and a communication interface configured to be coupled to one or more other computing components and comprising a female RF connector. It further comprises an RF connector configured to couple the computing device to the one or more other computing components, the RF connector comprising; an outer nut, the outer nut comprising a channel extending at least partially along a circumference of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into the female RF connector with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position.

[0011] Another embodiment comprises a method of coupling a RF connector to a female RF connector. The method comprises pushing the RF connector onto the female RF connector, wherein the RF connector comprises; an outer nut, the outer nut comprising a channel extending at least partially along a circumference of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into a female RF connector with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; and wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position. The method further comprises rotating the outer nut so that the stub engages passes the bump and the RF connector is in a locked position.

[0012] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an indication of the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Fig. 1 illustrates existing prior art RF connectors;

[0015] Figs. 2A-2C illustrates an embodiment of a push-pull type connector;

[0016] Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an RF connector system under the present disclosure;

[0017] Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a female RF connector under the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a male RF connector under the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of an RF cable under the present disclosure;

[0020] Fig. 7 illustrates a flow-chart of a method embodiment under the present disclosure; and

[0021] Fig. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a computing device under the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Before describing various embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the parameters of the particularly exemplified systems, methods, apparatus, products, processes, and / or kits, which may, of course, vary. Thus, while certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to specific configurations, parameters, components, elements, etc., the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed embodiments. In addition, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the embodiments and is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claimed embodiments.

[0023] While the making and using of the disclosed embodiments of the present disclosure is discussed in detail herein, it should be appreciated that the present disclosure provides many applicable innovative concepts which can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. To those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the disclosure will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined herein. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting. Some of the embodiments contemplated herein will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the subject matter to those skilled in the art.

[0024] As described above, there currently exist certain challenges in the field of RF connectors. Existing RF connectors are either insecure, prone to bounce back, or can be easily detached.

[0025] Certain aspects of the disclosure and their embodiments may provide solutions to these or other challenges. Certain embodiments include an improvement on existing RF connectors. Certain embodiments incorporate a twist lock (such as a bayonet style) to the maleRF connector to prevent the outer part of the male RF connector from being pulled back which otherwise would cause the male RF connector to become disconnected. By avoiding the torque wrench, it will allow radio and antenna designs to fit more RF connectors in a smaller footprint. Certain embodiments can apply to the 4.3-10 family of RF connectors, as further described below.

[0026] Certain embodiments may provide one or more of the following technical advantages. Better and stronger connectors will lead to fewer system failures, as connectors will stay in place longer, requiring less maintenance. This can lead to more secure and robust telecommunication systems.

[0027] One embodiment under the present disclosure is shown in Figure 3. RF connector system 400 comprises a mounting surface 411, female RF connector 402 (which can be a 4.3-10 compliant female RF connector), and male RF connector 450. In certain embodiments RF connector system 400 can be compliant with a female 4.3-10 connector. Cable body 430 can comprise a length of cable with another male RF connector (similar to male RF connector 450 or other types of connectors) that can couple to another device (e.g., antenna, computer, server, base station in a network, etc.).

[0028] Outer nut 401 of the male RF connector 450 contains a channel 407. In certain embodiments the length of channel 407 can comprise a length equal to between % and 1 / 3 of the circumference of outer nut 401. Channel 407 can include bump 409 to act as a friction point or interference fit for stub 408 that is mounted on inner connector body 406. Outer nut 401 can have a textured grip surface to allow for a user wearing a glove to twist. A user can initiate a push- on 420 action by pressing the male RF connector 450 onto female RF connector 402. A clockwise twist 405 by the user allows one to lock the male RF connector 450. A counterclockwise twist can allow one to disengage male RF connector 450 (e.g., using between 1 and 4 Newton-meters (Nm) of force). A user can then initiate a pull-apart action 421. Hence, in certain embodiments a tool is not required to lock or disengage the male RF connector 450. In operation, male RF connector 450 can be pushed onto female RF connector 402 in a first step of a connection procedure. Within the inner connector body 406 there is a male / center pin 440 that inserts into a female couplink on the female RF connector 402.

[0029] Locking or securing male RF connector 450 can occur when the outer nut 401 is turned to its most clockwise position, such that stub 408 passes over bump 409. In suchposition, the connection can be engaged and secure, preventing further movement of the male RF connector 450 away from female RF connector 402.

[0030] After the connection of male RF connector 450 is secured to its corresponding female RF connector 402, weatherproof boot 403 can be slid towards female RF connector 402 to make contact with the mounting surface 411. If the male RF connector 450 is properly designed and installed, any bounce back (illustrated by arrow 404) of the weatherproof boot 403 will not disengage or weaken the connection between the male RF connector 450 and female RF connectors 402.

[0031] Disengagement of the male RF connector 450 occurs when the outer nut 401 is turned counterclockwise, such that stub 408 passes over bump 409 and to its most counterclockwise position. At this point there can be allowable movement of male RF connector 450 away from female RF connector 402. Male RF connector 450 can then be pulled away from female RF connector 402 by pulling on outer nut 401.

[0032] Optionally, channel 407 can be exposed as seen in Figure 3, or can be contained between inner connector body 406 and outer nut 401. Further optionally, channel 407 can have a larger opening 410 proximate the disengagement end (e.g., distal to bump 409) of channel 407, at the most counterclockwise position, on outer nut 401.

[0033] In certain embodiments, bump 409 can also act to cause the user to sense a click through feel or sound, when secured. Larger opening 410 can in certain embodiments comprise a vertical or diagonal rise to allow for loosening of male RF connector 450 via stub 408.

[0034] Figure 4 illustrates other aspects of a female RF connector 402. Couplink 480 sits in the middle and can receive center pin 440 of male RF connector 450. Inner wall 485 can sit within inner connector body 406 when coupled to male RF connector 450. Outer wall 482 can sit outside of inner connector body 406 and within outer nut 401 when coupled to male RF connector 450.

[0035] Figure 5 illustrates other aspects of a possible male RF connector 450. Between outer nut 401 and inner connector body 406 can be disposed grip fingers 495 and spring ring 492, which are known in the art. These elements can help to grip female RF connector 402 via an interference fit and / or spring resistance as will be known to those of skill in the art.

[0036] Stub 408 doesn’t, in certain embodiments, engage spring ring 492 and grip fingers 495, but can hold outer nut 401 and inner connector body 406 in fixed relation to eachother. This prevents movement of outer nut 401 with respect to inner connector body 406. Because outer wall 482 of female RF connector 402 is between outer nut 401 and inner connector body 406, keeping outer nut 401 and inner connector body 406 fixed in relation to each other will make it harder to uncouple the male RF connector 450 from the female RF connector 402.

[0037] Figure 6 illustrates a possible RF cable 500 embodiment under the present disclosure. RF cable 500 can comprise male RF connectors 550 at each end, such as e.g., the male RF connector 450 illustrated with respect to Figures 3 and 5. In certain embodiments, male RF connectors 550 could comprise different types of RF connector at each end, or other type of coupling mechanisms for coupling to different types of devices.

[0038] A possible method embodiment under the present disclosure is shown in Figure 7. Method 600 comprises a method for coupling a male RF connector to a female RF connector. Step 610 is pushing the male RF connector onto the female RF connector, wherein the male RF connector comprises; an outer nut, the outer nut comprising a channel extending at least partially along a circumference of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into a female RF connector with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; and wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position. Step 620 is rotating the outer nut so that the stub engages passes the bump and the male RF connector is in a locked position. Method 600 can comprise multiple variations and embodiments and / or additional and / or alternative steps. For example, further steps can include rotating the outer nut in an opposite direction to disengage the RF connector from the female RF connector.

[0039] Figure 8 shows a computing device 4400 in accordance with some embodiments. As used herein, computing device refers to equipment capable, configured, arranged and / or operable to perform computations or run software and / or communicate directly or indirectly with other equipment in a telecommunications network. Examples of computing devices include, but are not limited to, access points (APs) (e.g., radio access points), base stations (BSs) (e.g., radio base stations, computers, antenna, RF emitting device, transmitting device, other antennaline devices (e.g., surge suppressors, combining devices, etc.), smart devices, smartphones, databases, network nodes and other similar systems or components.

[0040] In particular embodiments, computing device 4400 includes a processing circuitry 4402, a memory 4404, a communication interface 4406, and a power source 4408. In general, in a particular embodiment of computing device 4400, processing circuitry 4402, memory 4404, communication interface 4406, and power source 4408 may, in whole or in part, represent or include physical components common to or shared by one or more of the other elements of computing device 4400.

[0041] The processing circuitry 4402 may comprise a combination of one or more of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, central processing unit, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit, field programmable gate array, or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, software and / or encoded logic operable to provide, either alone or in conjunction with other components, such as the memory 4404, to provide network node 4400 functionality.

[0042] In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 4402 includes a system on a chip (SOC). In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 4402 includes one or more of radio frequency (RF) transceiver circuitry 4412 and baseband processing circuitry 4414. In some embodiments, the RF transceiver circuitry 4412 and the baseband processing circuitry 4414 may be on separate chips (or sets of chips), boards, or units, such as radio units and digital units. In alternative embodiments, part or all of RF transceiver circuitry 4412 and baseband processing circuitry 4414 may be on the same chip or set of chips, boards, or units.

[0043] The memory 4404 may comprise any form of volatile or non-volatile computer-readable memory including, without limitation, persistent storage, solid-state memory, remotely mounted memory, magnetic media, optical media, random access memory (RAM), readonly memory (ROM), mass storage media (for example, a hard disk), removable storage media (for example, a flash drive, a Compact Disk (CD) or a Digital Video Disk (DVD)), and / or any other volatile or non-volatile, non-transitory device-readable and / or computer-executable memory devices that store information, data, and / or instructions that may be used by the processing circuitry 4402. The memory 4404 may store any suitable instructions, data, or information, including a computer program, software, an application including one or more of logic, rules, code, tables, and / or other instructions capable of being executed by the processing circuitry 4402 andutilized by the computing device 4400. The memory 4404 may be used to store any calculations made by the processing circuitry 4402 and / or any data received via the communication interface 4406. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 4402 and memory 4404 is integrated.

[0044] The communication interface 4406 can be used in wired or wireless communication of signaling and / or data with other computing devices, and / or any other network equipment. In the illustrated embodiment, communication interface 4406 comprises port(s) / terminal(s) 4416 to send and receive data, for example to and from a network over a wired connection. Port / terminal 4416 may comprise a female RF connector, as described above. RF cable 4490 may provide wired coupling to other components. RF cable 4490 may comprise an RF connector such as described above for coupling with a female RF connector of port / terminal 4416. RF cable 4490 may comprise one or more RF connectors for providing communicative coupling to one or more computing devices 4400. In some embodiments RF cable may comprise multiple types of RF connectors at different ends. In particular embodiments, computing device 4400 may be capable of wireless communication and communication interface 4406 may also include radio front-end circuitry 4418 that may be coupled to, or in certain embodiments a part of, an antenna 4410. Particular embodiments of radio front-end circuitry 4418 include filter(s) 4420 and amplifier(s) 4422. The radio front-end circuitry 4418 may be connected to an antenna 4410 and processing circuitry 4402. The radio front-end circuitry may be configured to condition signals communicated between antenna 4410 and processing circuitry 4402. The radio front-end circuitry 4418 may receive digital data that is to be sent out to other network nodes or UEs via a wireless connection. The radio front-end circuitry 4418 may convert the digital data into a radio signal(s) having the appropriate channel and bandwidth parameters using a combination of filters 4420 and / or amplifiers 4422. The radio signal(s) may then be transmitted via the antenna 4410. Similarly, when receiving data, the antenna 4410 may collect radio signals which are then converted into digital data by the radio front-end circuitry 4418. The digital data may be passed to the processing circuitry 4402. In other embodiments, the communication interface may comprise different components and / or different combinations of components.

[0045] In certain alternative embodiments, computing device 4400 may be capable of wireless communication but does not include separate radio front-end circuitry 4418, instead, the processing circuitry 4402 includes radio front-end circuitry and is connected to the antenna 4410. Similarly, in some embodiments, all or some of the RF transceiver circuitry 4412 is part ofthe communication interface 4406. In still other embodiments, the communication interface 4406 includes one or more ports or terminals 4416, the radio front-end circuitry 4418, and the RF transceiver circuitry 4412, as part of a radio unit (not shown), and the communication interface 4406 communicates with the baseband processing circuitry 4414, which is part of a digital unit (not shown).

[0046] The antenna 4410 may include one or more antennas, or antenna arrays, configured to send and / or receive wireless signals. The antenna 4410 may be coupled to the radio front-end circuitry 4418 and may be any type of antenna capable of transmitting and receiving data and / or signals wirelessly. In certain embodiments, the antenna 4410 is separate from the computing device 4400 and connectable to the computing device 4400 through one or more interfaces or ports, such as by an RF connector and female RF connector as described herein.

[0047] The power source 4408 provides power to the various components of computing device 4400 in a form suitable for the respective components (e.g., at a voltage and current level needed for each respective component). The power source 4408 may further comprise, or be coupled to, power management circuitry to supply the components of the computing device 4400 with power for performing certain functionality described herein. For example, the computing device 4400 may be connectable to an external power source (e.g., the power grid, an electricity outlet) via an input circuitry or interface such as an electrical cable, whereby the external power source supplies power to power circuitry of the power source 4408. As a further example, the power source 4408 may comprise a source of power in the form of a battery or battery pack which is connected to, or integrated in, power circuitry. The battery may provide backup power should the external power source fail.

[0048] Embodiments of the computing device 4400 may include additional components beyond those shown in Figure 8 for providing certain aspects of the network node’s functionality, including any of the functionality described herein and / or any functionality necessary to support the subject matter described herein. For example, the computing device 4400 may include user interface equipment to allow input of information into the network node 4400 and to allow output of information from the computing device 4400. This may allow a user to perform diagnostic, maintenance, repair, and other administrative functions for the computing device 4400.Abbreviations and Defined Terms

[0049] To assist in understanding the scope and content of this written description and the appended claims, a select few terms are defined directly below. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0050] The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially,” as used herein, represent an amount or condition close to the specific stated amount or condition that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount or condition that deviates by less than 10%, or by less than 5%, or by less than 1%, or by less than 0.1%, or by less than 0.01% from a specifically stated amount or condition.

[0051] Various aspects of the present disclosure, including devices, systems, and methods may be illustrated with reference to one or more embodiments or implementations, which are exemplary in nature. As used herein, the term “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments disclosed herein. In addition, reference to an “implementation” of the present disclosure or embodiments includes a specific reference to one or more embodiments thereof, and vice versa, and is intended to provide illustrative examples without limiting the scope of the present disclosure, which is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the present description.

[0052] As used in the specification, a word appearing in the singular encompasses its plural counterpart, and a word appearing in the plural encompasses its singular counterpart, unless implicitly or explicitly understood or stated otherwise. Thus, it will be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to a singular referent (e.g., “a widget”) includes one, two, or more referents unless implicitly or explicitly understood or stated otherwise. Similarly, reference to a plurality of referents should be interpreted as comprising a single referent and / or a plurality of referents unless the content and / or context clearly dictate otherwise. For example, reference to referents in the plural form (e.g., “widgets”) does not necessarily require a plurality of such referents. Instead, it will be appreciated that independent ofthe inferred number of referents, one or more referents are contemplated herein unless stated otherwise.

[0053] References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," and the like indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but it is not necessary that every embodiment includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0054] It shall be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of example embodiments. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed terms.

[0055] It will be further understood that the terms "comprises", "comprising", "has", "having", "includes" and / or "including", when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components etc., but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components and / or combinations thereof.Conclusion

[0056] The present disclosure includes any novel feature or combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or any generalization thereof. Various modifications and adaptations to the foregoing exemplary embodiments of this disclosure may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant arts in view of the foregoing description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, any and all modifications will still fall within the scope of the non-limiting and exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0057] It is understood that for any given component or embodiment described herein, any of the possible candidates or alternatives listed for that component may generally be used individually or in combination with one another, unless implicitly or explicitly understood orstated otherwise. Additionally, it will be understood that any list of such candidates or alternatives is merely illustrative, not limiting, unless implicitly or explicitly understood or stated otherwise.

[0058] In addition, unless otherwise indicated, numbers expressing quantities, constituents, distances, or other measurements used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified by the term “about,” as that term is defined herein. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the subject matter presented herein. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the subject matter presented herein are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical values, however, inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0059] Any headings and subheadings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. The terms and expressions which have been employed herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, it should be understood that although the present disclosure has been specifically disclosed in part by certain embodiments, and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this present description.

[0060] It will also be appreciated that systems, devices, products, kits, methods, and / or processes, according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise properties or features (e.g., components, members, elements, parts, and / or portions) described in other embodiments disclosed and / or described herein. Accordingly, the various features of certain embodiments can be compatible with, combined with, included in, and / or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosureof certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include said features, members, elements, parts, and / or portions without necessarily departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] Moreover, unless a feature is described as requiring another feature in combination therewith, any feature herein may be combined with any other feature of a same or different embodiment disclosed herein. Furthermore, various well-known aspects of illustrative systems, methods, apparatus, and the like are not described herein in particular detail in order to avoid obscuring aspects of the example embodiments. Such aspects are, however, also contemplated herein.

[0062] It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that methods, devices, device elements, materials, procedures, and techniques other than those specifically described herein can be applied to the practice of the described embodiments as broadly disclosed herein without resort to undue experimentation. All art-known functional equivalents of methods, devices, device elements, materials, procedures, and techniques specifically described herein are intended to be encompassed by this present disclosure.

[0063] When a group of materials, compositions, components, or compounds is disclosed herein, it is understood that all individual members of those groups and all subgroups thereof are disclosed separately. When a Markush group or other grouping is used herein, all individual members of the group and all combinations and sub-combinations possible of the group are intended to be individually included in the disclosure.

[0064] The above-described embodiments are examples only. Alterations, modifications, and variations may be effected to the particular embodiments by those of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the description, which is defined solely by the appended claims.

[0065] The embodiments shown and described above are only exemplary. Even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present disclosure have been set forth in the foregoing description, the disclosure is illustrative only and changes may be made within the principles of the present disclosure to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms used herein. Various alterations, modifications and substitutions can be made to thedisclosed embodiments and the system that implements the present disclosure without departing in any way from the spirit and scope of the innovations herein described.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A male radio frequency, RF, connector (450), comprising: an outer nut (401), the outer nut comprising a channel (407) extending at least partially along a surface of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump (409) extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body (406) within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub (408) extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into a female RF connector (402) with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position.

2. The male RF connector of claim 1 , wherein the outer nut comprises a textured grip surface.

3. The male RF connector of claim 1 or 2, wherein the channel comprises a length equal to between % and 1 / 3 of the circumference of the outer nut.

4. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the female RF connector comprises a 4.3-10 compliant female RF connector.

5. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein moving to the locked position is achieved by a clockwise turn of the outer nut.

6. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a boot (403) configured to slide over the outer nut and the female RF connector for protection.

7. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the channel extends radially all the way through the outer nut.

8. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the channel is located on an inner surface of the outer nut and does not extend radially all the way through the outer nut.

9. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the channel comprises a vertical and / or diagonal rise at an end distal to the bump.

10. The male RF connector of claim 9, wherein the vertical rise allows for disengagement of the RF connector from the female RF connector.

11. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the bump is configured to cause a sensory click when engaging the stub.

12. The male RF connector of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the bump is configured to cause an audible click when engaging the stub.

13. A computing device (4400), comprising processing circuitry (4402); power supply circuitry (4408) configured to supply power to the processing circuitry; a communication interface configured to be coupled to one or more other computing components and comprising a female radio frequency, RF, connector (402); a male RF connector (450) configured to couple the computing device to the one or more other computing components, the male RF connector comprising; an outer nut (401), the outer nut comprising a channel (407) extending at least partially along a surface of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump (409) extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body (406) within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub (408) extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into the female RF connector (402) with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector;wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position.

14. The computing device of claim 13, wherein the outer nut comprises a textured grip surface.

15. The computing device of claim 13 or 14, wherein the channel comprises a length equal to between % and 1 / 3 of the circumference of the outer nut.

16. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the female RF connector comprises a 4.3-10 compliant female RF connector.

17. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 16, wherein moving to the locked position is achieved by a clockwise turn of the outer nut.

18. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 17, further comprising a boot (403) configured to slide over the outer nut and the female RF connector for protection.

19. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 18, wherein the channel extends radially all the way through the outer nut.

20. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 19, wherein the channel is located on an inner surface of the outer nut and does not extend radially all the way through the outer nut.

21. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 20, wherein the channel comprises a vertical rise at an end distal to the bump.

22. The computing device of claim 21, wherein the vertical rise allows for disengagement of the RF connector from the female RF connector.

23. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 22, wherein the bump is configured to cause a sensory click when engaging the stub.

24. The computing device of any of claims 13 to 23, wherein the bump is configured to cause an audible click when engaging the stub.

25. A method (600) of coupling a male radio frequency, RF, connector (450) to a female RF connector (402), comprising: pushing (610) the male RF connector onto the female RF connector, wherein the male RF connector comprises; an outer nut (401), the outer nut comprising a channel (407) extending at least partially along a surface of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump (409) extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body (406) within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub (408) extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut so as to be inserted into a female RF connector (402) with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position; and rotating (620) the outer nut so that the stub engages passes the bump and the male RF connector is in a locked position.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising rotating the outer nut in an opposite direction to disengage the male RF connector from the female RF connector.

27. The method of claim 25 or 26, wherein the rotating is in a clockwise direction.

28. The method of claim 26 or 27, wherein the rotating the outer nut in an opposite direction is in a counterclockwise direction.

29. A male radio frequency, RF, connector (450), comprising: an outer nut (401) comprising a channel (407) extending at least partially along a surface of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump (409) extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body (406) within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub (408) extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut such that, when coupling the male RF connector to a female RF connector (402), the inner connector body is inserted into the female RF connector with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RF connector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position.

30. A radio frequency, RF, cable (500) for providing communicative coupling between components in a network, comprising: a length of cable comprising one or more ends configured to couple to one or more computing devices (4400); one or more male RF connectors disposed at the one or more ends and comprising; an outer nut (401) comprising a channel (407) extending at least partially along a surface of the outer nut, the outer nut further comprising a bump (409) extending at least partially into the channel; and an inner connector body (406) within the outer nut, the inner connector body comprising a stub (408) extending outward and into the channel; wherein the inner connector body is radially separated from the outer nut such that, when coupling the male RF connector to a female RF connector (402), the inner connector body is inserted into the female RF connector with the outer nut surrounding the female RF connector; wherein the outer nut is configured to rotate about the inner connector body and the female RFconnector such that the stub is translated along the channel between a locked position and a release position, wherein an interference fit with the bump retains the stub in place at the locked position.

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