Inner Conductor: Frequency Range DC to 18 GHz

Component Specifications

Definition

The inner conductor is the primary current-carrying component in coaxial or multi-conductor transmission systems, typically positioned concentrically within insulating and shielding layers. It's engineered to maintain precise impedance characteristics, minimize signal attenuation, and provide reliable electrical connectivity in high-frequency applications. In transmission lines, it serves as the core pathway for electromagnetic energy transfer between source and load.

Working Principle

Operates on electromagnetic field theory where alternating current flows through the conductor, creating surrounding electromagnetic fields. The conductor's geometry and material properties determine characteristic impedance, signal propagation speed, and attenuation characteristics. In balanced transmission systems, it works with complementary conductors; in unbalanced systems (like coaxial), it functions with outer shielding.

Materials

High-conductivity oxygen-free copper (C10100/C10200), silver-plated copper for RF applications, aluminum alloys (6061-T6) for weight-sensitive applications, or beryllium copper for spring contacts. Surface finishes include tin, silver, or gold plating for corrosion resistance and solderability.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Diameter	0.5-25 mm
Impedance	50Ω or 75Ω standard
Conductivity	>100% IACS for copper
Voltage Rating	Up to 1000V RMS
Frequency Range	DC to 18 GHz
Temperature Rating	-55°C to +125°C

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

IEC 61196, MIL-DTL-17, ASTM B1, ISO 6722

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Transmission Lines

Conductive pathways within a feed network that carry electrical signals or power between components.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Impedance mismatch causing signal reflection
Corrosion leading to increased resistance
Mechanical fatigue from vibration
Thermal expansion mismatch
Plating degradation over time

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Improper material selection
Failure: Increased attenuation, signal loss
Mitigation: Use high-conductivity materials with appropriate plating; verify material certifications

Trigger: Manufacturing dimensional variations
Failure: Impedance deviation, VSWR increase
Mitigation: Implement statistical process control; use precision extrusion/drawing equipment

Trigger: Environmental exposure
Failure: Corrosion, oxidation
Mitigation: Apply protective coatings; specify appropriate plating thickness; use hermetic seals

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±0.02 mm diameter, ±1% impedance variation

Test Method

Time-domain reflectometry (TDR) for impedance verification, four-point resistance measurement, plating thickness measurement per ASTM B568

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Inner Conductor

Manufacturer profiles associated with Inner Conductor.

Sourcing Inner Conductor from China?

Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.

Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

Related Components

Marking Strip

A durable marking strip used for terminal identification in motor terminal blocks to ensure proper electrical connections and safety compliance.

Gland Body

A gland body is the main housing component of an aluminum cable gland that provides mechanical protection and environmental sealing for electrical cables entering enclosures.

Current Sense Resistor

A precision resistor used to measure current flow in electrical circuits by converting current to a measurable voltage drop.

Conductor Terminal

A conductor terminal is a critical electrical component designed to securely connect and terminate conductors in high-voltage insulating bushings, ensuring reliable electrical transmission and insulation integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between inner conductor and outer conductor in transmission lines?

The inner conductor carries the primary signal current, while the outer conductor (shield) provides return path and electromagnetic shielding. In coaxial configurations, they maintain precise spacing to control impedance.

Why is silver plating used on inner conductors?

Silver plating reduces surface resistance at high frequencies due to skin effect, improves corrosion resistance, and maintains stable electrical properties over temperature variations.

How does conductor diameter affect transmission line performance?

Diameter directly impacts characteristic impedance, current-carrying capacity, and attenuation. Larger diameters reduce resistance but may increase capacitance, requiring careful impedance matching.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Inner Conductor