Master Thesis: Evaluating coaxial connector contact integrity for ultra-low-level RF receive signals

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About this opportunity:

Modern radio systems rely on highly sensitive receiver channels to detect very weak uplink signals. Coaxial connectors are critical interconnection points in these paths, where contact quality can directly affect radio performance and system noise figure.

Current connector qualification methods typically measure contact resistance using currents in the tens of milliamperes, while actual receiver signals may correspond to currents in the microampere range. This raises questions about whether conventional qualification methods accurately represent real-world performance, particularly when alternative plating materials are introduced.

This thesis will investigate how contact degradation, oxidation, and plating materials influence the transmission of ultra-low-level RF signals. The work will identify potential gaps in current verification methods and provide recommendations for connector qualification in low-noise radio systems.

What you will do:

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  Study the relationship between connector contact integrity, plating materials, degradation, and receiver performance.

  
  


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  Evaluate whether standard contact-resistance measurements correlate with performance under ultra-low-level RF conditions.

  
  


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  Perform experiments using RF measurement equipment, including vector network analyzers, climatic chambers, and low-level signal setups.

  
  


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  Investigate the impact of oxidation and surface degradation on RF performance and system noise figure.

  
  


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  Examine connector contact and material microstructure where relevant.

  
  


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  Relate experimental results to receiver requirements involving filters, interconnections, and low-noise amplifiers.

  
  


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  Recommend improved qualification and verification methods for future radio applications.

  
  

The skills you bring:

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  You are pursuing a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.

  
  


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  You have knowledge of RF systems and receiver performance, particularly filters, interconnections, and low-noise amplifiers.

  
  


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  Familiarity with vector network analyzers, climatic testing, low-level signal measurements, or other RF laboratory equipment is an advantage.

  
  


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  Interest in connector technology, contact materials, microstructure, and degradation mechanisms is beneficial.

  
  


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  You are analytical, curious, and able to combine experimental work with technical analysis.

  
  


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  Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently.