W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. (Gore) has introduced a smaller diameter cable to further enhance the GORE-FLIGHT™ Microwave Assembly, 6 Series portfolio. This new cable solution delivers the lowest insertion loss for an assembly using Size 8 RF contacts. Insertion loss is maintained during and after installation, ensuring reliable performance for the life of the system. The robust construction of these assemblies reduces total costs by withstanding the challenges of installation, preventing costly production delays, field service frequency, and the need for purchasing replacement assemblies. These lightweight assembly constructions improve fuel efficiency and increase payload.

The GORE-FLIGHT™ Microwave Assembly, 6 Series is ideally suited for aerospace applications where compact profile and light weight constructions are top design priorities. The new compact option in this line measures 6.1 mm (0.24 in) in diameter, weighs 60 g/m (0.040 lb/ft) and offers a minimum bend radius of 25.4 mm (1.0 in). Typical, guaranteed and installed insertion loss for this model is rated at 0.342 dB/ft, 0.384 dB/ft and 0.354 dB/ft, respectively.

“For customers who require a compact and lightweight cable with Size 8 RF contacts,” said Jim Foreman, Product Specialist, GORE® Microwave Cable Assemblies, “this new version of the GORE-FLIGHT™ Microwave Assembly, 6 Series now gives them high performance in a 'fit-and-forget' installation option.”

Physical damage to the cable assembly during installation can result in impedance changes. Compared to alternative airframe assemblies, GORE-FLIGHTTM Microwave Assemblies, 6 Series maintain a consistent impedance of 50 ± 1 ohms, providing excellent VSWR characteristics and eliminating insertion loss stack-up issues when assemblies are cascaded or routed through airframe bulkheads. Shielding effectiveness is rated at 90 dB through 18 GHz.

Applications for GORE-FLIGHTTM Microwave Assemblies, 6 Series include: airborne electronic surveillance/counter measures; radar warning (electronic defense) systems; missile approach warning systems; radar interconnects; electronic/signal intelligence; and navigation/communication systems. Gore controls the entire GORE-FLIGHTTM Microwave Assemblies, 6 Series manufacturing process from purchasing raw materials, to creating and applying the proprietary dielectric material, through testing and shipping the final cable assembly. This unsurpassed vertical integration allows Gore the complete control necessary to consistently achieve tight specifications consistently. This process includes testing 100 percent of the assemblies for vapor leakage, dielectric withstanding voltage, VSWR, insertion loss, impedance, and velocity of propagation — ensuring that every assembly will deliver the highest-quality performance required for today's civil and military aircraft.