Molex Introduces 145 GHz Multi-Port Coaxial Assemblies

Why It Matters

By raising the frequency ceiling to 145 GHz, Molex enables engineers to validate next‑generation AI and 6G hardware earlier, shortening development cycles and lowering total cost of ownership.

Key Takeaways

• Supports 145 GHz, surpassing previous 110 GHz benchmark
• Enables 448 Gbps data rates for high‑speed testing
• Multi‑port designs (1×4, 1×8, 2×8) cut test cycle time
• Rated for 500 mating cycles, ensuring repeatable performance
• Available now, expands Cardinal line with vertical, right‑angle options

Pulse Analysis

The race to commercialize 6G and AI‑driven data centers is pushing test equipment beyond the traditional 110 GHz limit. Molex’s new 145 GHz coaxial assemblies address this gap, offering phase‑matched, low‑insertion‑loss pathways that can accurately characterize signals at terahertz frequencies. Engineers can now probe silicon photonics, high‑bandwidth memory and next‑gen RF front‑ends with confidence, accelerating validation of protocols that will underpin ultra‑low‑latency networks.

Beyond raw frequency, the multi‑port architecture delivers practical benefits for high‑volume labs. Consolidating several RF connectors into a single housing reduces board real‑estate and shortens cable runs, while the solderless PCB attachment speeds up fixture changes. With a guaranteed 500 mating cycles, the assemblies maintain consistent return loss and insertion loss, mitigating the wear‑and‑tear that traditionally drives re‑calibration costs. These attributes translate into a lower total cost of ownership for OEMs and test service providers.

Market adoption is likely to be swift as telecom operators and AI hardware vendors seek scalable test solutions. The availability of vertical, right‑angle, and edge‑mount terminations ensures compatibility with diverse test rigs, while the 1×4, 1×8, and 2×8 configurations support parallel testing of multiple channels. As 6G research intensifies and terahertz imaging moves toward production, Molex’s 145 GHz offering positions the company as a critical enabler of the next decade’s connectivity ecosystem.