What is an RP-SMA antenna? – ProdataKey, Inc.

ProdataKey WIMAC-based hardware uses an antenna type known as RP=SMA. This is different from the more common SMA connectors used in other radio hardware.

The 'RP' in RP-SMA stands for "Reverse Polarity" of the central connector, not the signal itself, since the 'polarity' or 'gender' of the central pin is reversed compared to an SMA connector. This change is due to an RP-SMA antenna being designed to be incompatible with standard SMA connectors. This change is required so that WIMAC connections comply with U.S. FCC regulations preventing attachment of non-standard antennas to wireless devices.

For example, while both female-type connector have threads on the outside of the connector, the SMA connector has a central socket barrel and the RP-SMA connector has a central pin.

Conversely, both male-type connectors have threads on the inside of the connector, the SMA connector has a central pin and the RP-SMA connector has a central socket barrel.

The two connector types are indistinguishable when plugged in and the signal quality is the same. While a male RP-SMA can fit physically onto a female SMA socket, the two connectors do not connect electronically, and will not transmit a signal.