SMB Connector Plug 72981 - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Pomona Electronics 72981 is an SMB connector plug designed for RF coaxial applications requiring 50-ohm impedance. This female socket connector features crimp termination for both center contact and shield, supporting cable groups RG-174, RG-188, and RG-316. The connector operates across a temperature range of -65°C to 165°C with a maximum frequency rating of 3 GHz and is rated for 500 mating cycles. The part is currently active in production and ROHS3 compliant, making it suitable for modern electronic assemblies where equivalent alternatives may be required due to inventory constraints, lead time considerations, or specific manufacturing requirements.

Substiute Parts

72981

Pomona ElectronicsIn Stock: 87772981 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BU-P72981

Mueller Electric CoIn Stock: 814BU-P72981 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The BU-P72981 manufactured by Mueller Electric Co qualifies as a direct substitute for the Pomona Electronics 72981 based on the following critical parameters:

Matching Parameters:

• Connector style: SMB
• Connector type: Plug, Female Socket
• Impedance: 50 Ohms
• Contact termination: Crimp
• Shield termination: Crimp
• Mounting type: Free Hanging (In-Line)
• Cable group compatibility: RG-174, RG-188, RG-316
• Fastening type: Snap-On
• Maximum frequency: 3 GHz
• Number of ports: 1
• Body material: Brass
• Body finish: Gold
• Dielectric material: PTFE
• Housing color: Gold

These parameters define the functional and mechanical compatibility required for direct substitution in RF coaxial applications. Both parts meet the same electrical specifications and physical interface requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the Pomona Electronics 72981 and Mueller Electric Co BU-P72981 are active production parts with current regulatory compliance. The Pomona part carries ROHS3 certification, while the Mueller part carries standard RoHS compliance. Both parts are REACH unaffected and classified under the same ECCN and HTSUS codes, indicating equivalent regulatory standing for export and trade purposes.

The Mueller BU-P72981 demonstrates an extended upper operating temperature limit of 170°C compared to the Pomona part's 165°C maximum, providing additional thermal margin in high-temperature applications. The Mueller part uses beryllium copper for the center contact material, which may offer different mechanical properties compared to the brass contact in the Pomona part, though both maintain identical gold plating and electrical performance at the specified 50-ohm impedance and 3 GHz frequency rating.

Selection between these parts should be based on availability, lead time requirements, and specific application thermal profiles within the stated operating ranges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Mueller BU-P72981 be used as a direct replacement for the Pomona 72981?

A: Yes. Both connectors share identical SMB connector style, female socket configuration, 50-ohm impedance, crimp termination for center contact and shield, free-hanging mounting type, and compatibility with RG-174, RG-188, and RG-316 cable groups. The snap-on fastening type and 3 GHz maximum frequency rating are identical across both parts.

Q: What is the difference in center contact material between these parts?

A: The Pomona 72981 uses brass for the center contact, while the Mueller BU-P72981 uses beryllium copper. Both are gold-plated and maintain the same electrical performance at 50 ohms. The material difference may affect mechanical durability characteristics, though both parts are rated for RF coaxial applications.

Q: Are there temperature range differences between these connectors?

A: The Pomona 72981 operates from -65°C to 165°C, while the Mueller BU-P72981 operates from -50°C to 170°C. The Mueller part provides a higher upper temperature limit. For applications requiring operation below -50°C, the Pomona part is required.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory requirements?

A: Both parts are REACH unaffected and classified under EAR99 export control and HTSUS code 8536.69.4010. The Pomona part carries ROHS3 compliance, while the Mueller part carries standard RoHS compliance. Both are suitable for modern electronic assemblies with current regulatory requirements.

Q: What cable types are compatible with both connectors?

A: Both the Pomona 72981 and Mueller BU-P72981 are compatible with RG-174, RG-188, and RG-316 coaxial cables through crimp termination.

Q: Are mating cycle ratings specified for both parts?

A: The Pomona 72981 is rated for 500 mating cycles. The Mueller BU-P72981 mating cycle rating is not specified in the available documentation.