Vol. I · No. 46The physical media sectionSat, 10 Oct 2026
Coaxial connector · bayonet

BNC Connector

push, twist and lock

The BNC connector keeps a coaxial cable’s centre conductor and shield aligned through a two-lug bayonet coupling. Push and turn the collar to make a fast, repeatable connection without threads.

BNC describes the mechanical family—not the whole electrical specification. Match impedance, frequency rating and cable as well as the plug.

Locking
Bayonet
push and quarter-turn
Impedance
50 Ω or 75 Ω
electrically distinct versions
Medium
Coaxial cable
centre pin plus outer shield
Typical use
RF / video / test
fast field connection

Anatomy of the connector

Use the supplied plate to identify the connector, then check the four details below before selecting, terminating or mating it.

Labelled BNC coaxial connector with bayonet coupling
Supplied NetFlow Lab connector plate · shown uncropped
Identify it correctly

Four details to check before connection

1
Centre contact

The pin or socket carries the signal conductor along the connector axis.

2
Dielectric

Insulation holds the centre contact in position and maintains impedance.

3
Outer body

The metal shell continues the cable shield and return path.

4
Bayonet collar

Slots engage two posts on the receptacle and lock with a short twist.

Where it is used

The connector body is only one part of a link. Cable type, signal, impedance or optical polish must match the equipment on both ends.

Test instruments

Oscilloscopes, generators and RF benches use BNC for rapid connection changes.

CCTV and video

75-ohm BNC remains common on professional and legacy baseband video equipment.

Radio systems

50-ohm versions connect antennas and lower-frequency RF equipment.

In cybersecurity & operations

BNC is easy to disconnect, split and adapt. Protect exposed panels and confirm that every component preserves the intended impedance and signal path.

Impedance mismatch

A 50-ohm and 75-ohm BNC may mate physically but cause reflections and signal loss.

Unexpected tees

Inspect for splitters and adapters that could tap or incorrectly terminate a shared coax path.

Loose bayonet

A half-turned collar can create intermittent faults. Verify both lugs are engaged.

End termination

Some buses and test setups require a correct terminator at the final port.

Names & specifications

BNC50 Ω75 ΩRFCCTVBayonet

Continue the connector guide

F-Type ConnectorThe threaded connector used on RG-6 cable for broadband, cable television and satellite distribution.