Connecting External antenna array to NRF52833 DK

[Suresh C]

Hi,

I need to connect an Antenna array to NRF52833 DK. Instead of using connectors in J1, can I take wire across the onboard Antenna. Will this solution work?

[Vidar Berg]

Hi,

Placing the antenna cable across the PCB antenna will not work, unfortunately. You must use the J1 connector. 

Best regards,

Vidar

[Suresh C]

Hi,

Thank you for your response. Instead can I remove the onboard chip antenna and then connect my external antenna to it?

[Kaja]

Hi,

you can solder on a coax able to the RF path and connect that to your external antenna. 

NOTE: This a 50 Ohm transmission line, so you need a coax cable, meaning an electrical cable with a inner conductor and a surrounding conducting shield. 


What type of connector do you have on your antenna array?

Best regards,
Kaja

[Suresh C]

In the antenna array side I have MCRF Coaxial connector. 

Below are the connector recommended by antenna array manufacture side to connect to NRF52833DK.

https://www.digikey.fi/en/products/detail/murata-electronics/MXHS83QE3000/1775923

https://www.digikey.fi/en/products/detail/linx-technologies-inc/ADP-SMAM-SMAM-G/9826676

https://www.digikey.fi/en/products/detail/amphenol-rf/336313-12-0100/5417986

The cost of connectors are high. so, I am finding an alternate way to connect both of them. Kindly provide me the best way to connect them.

[Kaja]

To be sure that the connection works as it should the connectors are the best method. 

Soldering on a coax at both ends is a solution, soldering the inner connector to the RF path on both sides and the surrounding conducting shield to ground. 

Best regards,
Kaja