Times Microwave Systems launches continuous flex coaxial cable

Oct 11, 2023

April 4, 2023 By Sean Whooley

[Image courtesy of Times Microwave Systems]

The Wallingford, Connecticut-based company designed XtendedFlex 178 for plastic cable drag chains. Times Microwave Systems says it's ideal for applications requiring constant motion and flexibility. These include robotics and industrial automation technologies in large distribution centers.

XtendedFlex 178 delivers optimal bend movement and consistent electrical performance during continuous flexure. It features a unique combination of materials, such as a stranded silver-plated copper-clad steel center conductor, FEB dielectric, tin-plated copper braid and a rubber jacket. The cable offers flexibility and durability to survive the rigors of millions of flexures, Times Microwave Systems said.

Using a rolling flex tester robot, the cable was subjected to 1 million flexes. It maintained low insertion loss and VSWR specifications while preserving mechanical flexibility. The cable continued to perform well even after 5 million flexes, according to Times Microwave Systems.

XtendedFlex 178 represents the first cable introduced in the new XtendedFlex product line. Times Microwave Systems aims for this family of products to support a wide range of industrial automation applications. That includes autonomous vehicles and unmanned technologies.

"The XF-178 combines flexibility and performance, making it a highly reliable option for industrial automation applications," said Kevin Moyher, product manager at Times Microwave Systems. "This new product builds on our unparalleled legacy of designing, manufacturing, and testing high-performance coaxial cable assemblies for ultra-demanding applications, including aerospace, medical, military and defense, space, and more, to enable new technological innovations."