EZ vs TC Connectors: What’s the Difference?

Times Microwave Systems offers a wide range of connectors designed to meet the diverse needs of many applications and industries. Among these connectors, the EZ style and TC style are two popular options. EZ Connectors are solderless, featuring spring finger inner contacts and crimp style outer contacts, while TC connectors are the more traditional solder-pin design. Although LMR^® cables are the most well-known Times Microwave Systems brand that uses EZ connectors, they are also used with other cable types, such as TCOM^® cable and TFlex^® cables. Understanding the differences between these connector types is essential for selecting the most suitable for the application’s requirements.

EZ Style Connectors

EZ style connectors prioritize easy installation and high performance. With a no-solder, no-sealant design, they allow for quick, straightforward assembly, featuring a pre-installed captivated center pin that eliminates the need for soldering. This design not only simplifies installation but also eliminates the need to trim the cable braid, reducing the potential for foreign object debris (FOD). A compression nut secures the connector to the cable to maintain a reliable and durable connection.

The no-solder design of EZ connectors removes the variability often associated with manual soldering, making installation faster and more consistent. This ease of install can also help lower labor costs, especially in situations where time is a critical factor. To aid in the installation of EZ connectors, Times Microwave Systems has developed a number of easy-to-use tools for cable cutting, prep, and crimping the connector. Thanks to their well-designed components and precision engineering, EZ connectors offer consistent performance and reliability.

By far, the greatest advantage of EZ connectors is the speed of assembly. Because they do not require soldering or adhesive, installation is significantly faster, making them ideal for applications where rapid deployment is critical.

TC Style Connectors

TC style connectors, by contrast, are intended for more traditional installations that typically require soldering for the center conductor. When done correctly, this soldered connection provides a very secure mechanical and electrical bond. These connectors usually feature a clamp-style attachment, which serves the outer conductor and shield by tightening a clamping nut around the connector body. However, the soldering process can lead to several potential issues, such as pin-core gaps, dielectric melting, cold solder joints, excess soldier, and flux residue.

Many of these problems arise from improper soldering, making this type of connector installation more susceptible to errors. There is a common misconception that TC connectors are superior to EZ style ones. While they do offer advantages, these benefits are often limited to specific applications. A key advantage of TC connectors is their compatibility with stranded center conductors, which require soldering to ensure a stable connection. However, outside of these specialized situations, TC connectors may not be the ideal choice.

When to Use EZ Style vs. TC Style Connectors

In summary, both EZ style and TC style connectors from Times Microwave Systems offer unique advantages tailored to different application needs. By understanding the specific characteristics and appropriate uses of each connector type, customers can ensure optimal performance and reliability for their cable assemblies. Ready to choose the perfect connector for your application? Explore our full range of EZ and TC connectors by visiting our connector landing page.