An integrated mechanical locking feature in antenna connectors plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable and stable connectivity in harsh operating environments such as those with high shock, vibration, or mechanical stress. It ensures secure, vibration-resistant, and stable electrical connections, reducing downtime, maintaining RF performance, and improving overall system reliability in demanding  environments. The MHF^® I LK and MHF^® 4L LK enhance retention force by incorporating a locking mechanism into the standard MHF^® I and MHF^® 4L plugs. This innovation is particularly advantageous for applications where continuous connectivity is essential, including  drones, fleet management, asset tracking, security, and personnel monitoring. With the introduction of locking functionality in two distinct sizes, MHF^® I LK and MHF^® 4L LK, design engineers can select options based on size and performance, thereby addressing various device and form factor challenges effectively.

Graphs in Figure 1 below compare how the disengagement force increases with the integrated lock in MHF^® I LK and MHF^® 4L LK connectors as compared to MHF^® I and MHF^® 4L connectors. N represents a sample size of 5 connectors here. 

Disengagement force comparison

Figure 1. Comparison of Disengagement Force for MHF^® I LK and MHF^® I, MHF^® 4L LK and MHF^® 4L Connectors 

Figure 2 shows the component placement prohibited area for MHF^® 4L LK receptacle, mated with MHF^® 4L plug harness. The figure also shows minimum recommended distance between adjacent mated MHF^® 4L LK receptacles mated with MHF^® 4L LK plug harness. The recommended minimum clearance between each MHF^® 4L connector is also required to smoothly operate the I-PEX recommended locking / unlocking and mating / unmating Jig tool part number 91493-0001 also shown as a reference.

In traditional snap-on or push-type connectors, vibration or movement can loosen the mating interface, leading to intermittent contact or complete disconnection. An Integrated lock  secures the connector pair mechanically and ensures the connection remains intact even under continuous vibration or sudden mechanical shocks. This is critical in applications like automotive, industrial, and portable wireless systems. A locked interface also maintains consistent contact pressure between the connector’s mating surfaces, ensuring low insertion loss and high signal integrity  up to 9 GHz in MHF^® I LK and up to 12 GHz in MHF^® 4L LK connectors. The locking feature minimizes micromotion and fretting corrosion, prolonging connector life and reducing the frequency of system maintenance. System designers can also achieve lightweight, vibration-proof antenna connections without sacrificing mechanical strength.