Specifications

Interface Type UHF threaded (PL-259 / SO-239)

Impedance 50 Ohm (non-constant)

Frequency Range DC – 300 MHz

VSWR 1.20:1 typ. at 100 MHz

Insertion Loss 0.10 dB typ.

Contact Resistance ≤3 mΩ

Dielectric Withstand 500 VRMS

Mating Cycles 500 cycles

Body Material Brass, silver or nickel plated

Contact Material Brass, silver plated

PL259 UHF Male Connector

UHF Family

The UHF connector (also known as PL-259 male / SO-239 female) is a large, low-cost RF connector designed in the 1930s for HF and VHF frequencies. Despite its name, its practical usable range is below 300 MHz due to its non-constant impedance design. It remains extremely popular in amateur radio (HF through VHF), CB radio, and marine radio applications.

Typical Applications

Amateur (ham) radio HF/VHF/UHF transceivers, CB radio, marine VHF radio, antenna switches and coax relays.

Gender & Polarity Note

This is a Male connector — it has a center pin that inserts into a female socket. Male connectors are used on cable assemblies and pigtails that plug into equipment jacks.

Cables Available with PL259 UHF Male

Select a cable type to see all connector pairings and pricing.

1.13

1.13MM • DC – 6 GHz

RG178

1.75MM • DC – 3 GHz

RG174

.1 INCH • DC – 3 GHz

RG316

.1 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC100A

.1 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC195

.195 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC240

.240 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC400

.400 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RG58

.195 INCH • DC – 1 GHz

LMR195 Times

.195 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR400 Times

.400 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR240 Times

.240 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR400 ULTRA FLEX Times

.400 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC400 ULTRA FLEX

.400 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RG142

.195 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RG400

.195 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RG316DS

.1 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC600

.600 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR600 Times

.600 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR600 ULTRA FLEX Times

.600 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR100 Times

.1 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

1.37

1.37MM • DC – 6 GHz

LMR240 ULTRA FLEX Times

.240 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RFC240 ULTRA FLEX

.240 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

LMR200 Times

.200 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

RGU178

.06 INCH • DC – 6 GHz

Frequently Asked Questions

What frequency range does the PL259 UHF Male connector support?

UHF connectors are rated DC – 300 MHz. The effective upper frequency of a cable assembly is limited by the lowest-rated component — either the cable or the connector. Always verify both are within spec for your target frequency.

How many times can a UHF connector be mated and unmated?

PL259 UHF Male connectors are rated for approximately 500 mating cycles. Exceeding this can cause wear on the contact surfaces, increasing insertion loss and VSWR. For applications with very frequent connects and disconnects, consider a connector rated for higher cycle counts.

What torque should I use to tighten a UHF connector?

Use a torque wrench and follow the connector manufacturer's recommended torque specification. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn is a safe starting point for most push-on connectors.

Are the UHF connectors on CoaxRF assemblies weatherproof?

Our standard cable assemblies use high-quality connectors suitable for most indoor and sheltered outdoor applications. For fully weatherproof outdoor installations, we recommend applying self-amalgamating tape over the connector junction to prevent moisture ingress.

Do CoaxRF cables with PL259 UHF Male connectors ship assembled and tested?

Yes. Every cable assembly — including those terminated with PL259 UHF Male connectors — is hand-assembled and continuity tested before shipping. Cables ship free within the US from our US facility.