What They Are and Why They Matter

Jumper cables, also known as RF jumpers or feeder jumpers, are short coaxial cables used to connect various components in an RF transmission system. Though seemingly simple, they play a crucial role in ensuring signal integrity, mechanical flexibility, and overall system performance in wireless infrastructure.

1. What is a Jumper Cable?

A jumper cable is a flexible coaxial cable with connectors at both ends, typically used to connect:

• Antennas to main feeders

• Base station radios to antennas

• Filter units, duplexers, or combiners within cabinets

They are designed to handle high frequencies while maintaining low insertion loss and excellent shielding.

2. Key Features of RF Jumper Cables

• Low Insertion Loss: Minimizes signal loss between components

• High Shielding Effectiveness: Reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI)

• Flexibility: Easy to route and install, especially in tight spaces

• Durability: Often weatherproof and UV-resistant for outdoor use

• Connector Options: Available with various connector types (DIN, N-type, 4.3-10, SMA, etc.)

3. Applications of Jumper Cables

a. Telecom Base Stations (4G/5G)

Jumper cables are widely used to connect Remote Radio Units (RRUs) to antennas in base station deployments. With the rise of 5G and MIMO technology, high-quality jumper cables are essential for low PIM and consistent signal performance.

b. Indoor Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS)

In DAS setups, jumper cables are used for short-distance connections between splitters, antennas, and repeaters. Their flexibility and size make them ideal for confined indoor spaces.

c. Antenna Testing and Lab Measurement

In RF test labs, jumper cables connect equipment like signal generators, spectrum analyzers, or network analyzers with DUTs (Devices Under Test). Precision and repeatability are critical here.

d. Military, Aerospace, and Radar Systems

Reliable jumper cables are used in mission-critical systems requiring stable connections and resistance to vibration, moisture, and temperature extremes.

4. How to Select the Right Jumper Cable

When choosing a jumper cable, consider the following factors:

• Frequency Range: Ensure the cable supports your application’s frequency (up to 6 GHz, 18 GHz, or higher)

• PIM Performance: For cellular applications, low Passive Intermodulation (PIM) is essential

• Connector Type: Match the correct connector type and gender

• Cable Diameter: Smaller diameter (1/4", 3/8") for flexibility; larger for lower loss

• Environmental Protection: For outdoor use, ensure waterproofing (IP67/IP68) and UV resistance

Conclusion

Though compact, jumper cables are a key link in the RF chain. Whether for high-power transmission, low-PIM performance, or compact installation, choosing the right jumper cable ensures signal continuity, system reliability, and long-term performance.