FAKRA Connectors have been the standard RF connector in the automotive industry for quite some time, and now they are branching out across many markets. This is not surprising, as they offer many advantages – they are color coded, key coded, and often times more cost effective than other interfaces. This allows them to be mated blindly, with no tools, single handedly, and correctly every time. Being built to USCAR specifications means they meet vibration, interface, intermateability, mating cycles, and other requirements for reliability. The FAKRA specification was originally released by the DIN group in Germany, then adapted by USCAR for the international automotive community. Inside the plastic or cast housing is a tried and true SMB push/pull interface.
As FAKRA connectors begin to permeate throughout vehicles in different markets, their capabilities have grown. Amphenol RF is a leading designer of custom FAKRA solutions globally. While the FAKRA specification does not require waterproofing of the connector, this is often required in harsh environments. Amphenol RF has a number of IP54 and IP67 sealed FAKRA connectors. We also have unique FAKRA connectors for non-standard cables, FAKRAs that go up to 6GHz (for DSRC and dual band Wi-Fi), and many other custom configurations. Of course, if you have a unique application – we would love to see it! There is no environment or packaging too challenging!
FAKRA connectors are a colorful bunch, and industry standards for which colors means what have come to pass. This is not a hard and fast standard however – you are free to use whichever color/key for whatever application you choose. One thing that is a fixed standard is the keys/colors – the keys and colors are tied to each other – EX: key code “A” is always colored black. All keys/colors meet the same specification so there are no technical differences between keys/colors. Below is a table of the generic uses of each key/color:
Here are the associated key codes:
Product Example: Curry: “K” Die-Cast FAKRA with color ring to FAKRA Jack cable assembly
Product Example: “Z” Water blue Universal FAKRA to SMA adapter
Product Example: “A” Black FAKRA to MCX custom cable assembly
Product Example: “C” Blue FAKRA vertical PCB connector
There is often confusion as to which part number to order, since there are so many options! It can be a bit confusing, even for new people on our team. The best bet is to contact us with any questions you have. With just a few application questions we will have you off and running with the most appropriate part number, or perhaps a custom solution! In the next installation of the FAKRA series we will discuss the generations of FAKRA development and what they means.
Source: FAKRA Series Part 1: Connector Keys and Codes Explained | Amphenol RF