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Author Archives: Joshua Gardner

  1. Understanding the Different Types of Military Radios

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    Understanding the Different Types of Military Radios

    There are several sectors where reliance on the use of radio products is essential for basic operations, and the military world is a top example. What kinds of radios does the military use? There are a few key varieties to be aware of.

    At Amphenol NEXUS Technologies, we’re proud to serve as a leader in advanced telecommunications manufacturing, offering a huge selection of rangers, TAC connectors, plugs, jacks and numerous others for various applications. Military entities are among our top clients, and we offer a wide variety of Mil-Spec and Mil-Spec-Type products. Here’s a breakdown on the types of radios used by the military today, plus some of their basic qualities.

    AN/PRC-163

    The AN/PRC-163 is a dual-channel tactical handheld radio manufactured by L3Harris, a leader in military technology. Often referred to in military circles as the Leader Radio, it has several modes:

    • VHF/UHF Line-of-Sight (VULOS)
    • SINCGARS
    • Soldier Radio Waveform
    • Tactical Scalable MANET
    • P25
    • Mobile User Objective System satellite communication mode

    The dual-channel method allows personnel to simultaneously monitor two different networks, providing increased situational awareness and communication capabilities. Its compact size and durability make it a preferred choice for dismounted troops.

    At Amphenol NEXUS Technologies, we offer MIL-DTL-55116 (likely) connector standards for use with the AN/PRC-163. This option includes inline headset and remote mic connections.

    AN/PRC-77

    Also known as the AN/PRC 77 Radio Set, this product is a portable VHF FM combat-net radio transceiver manufactured by Associated Industries. Its primary purpose is to offer short-range, two-way radio voice communications.

    This is one of the military’s oldest and most reliable radio products, first used in 1968 during the Vietnam War and upgraded several times since. While many uses of the AN/PRC-77 have been replaced by SINCGARS radios, modern uses like secure voice transmission, full encryption and more are still valuable and it remains in use in some sectors of the military.

    At Amphenol NEXUS Technologies, we offer several products with MIL-DTL-55116 U-229 connector standards for the AN/PRC 77 Radio Set, with headset and handset inline cable options.

    AN/PRC Tactical

    There are also several different AN/PRC tactical radio options produced by L3Harris and similar entities. The AN/PRC-152A Wideband Networking Handheld Radio, for instance, provides simultaneous voice, video and high-speed data in a highly portable form factor.

    Another great example is the AN/PRC-148 MBITR/JEM from Thales, which is one of the smallest and lightest tactical handheld radios on the market. Options like these offer incredible power efficiency, often a must for military needs.

    At Amphenol NEXUS Technologies, we offer MIL-DTL-55116 and Ranger connector standards for these various tactical radios. Our audio, headset and other comm console interfaces are ideal for many military needs.

    Civil/Military Headsets

    We also proudly provide several products for civil and military headsets under the MIL-DTL-55116 network and other variants. These products feature rugged and durable designs, as well as high-quality audio transmission for clear communication. Our headsets are designed to withstand harsh environments and provide reliable communication for critical operations.

    So for all your connector needs for military radios and related products, contact our team at Amphenol NEXUS Technologies today!

  2. Determining Microphone Jack Size

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    The selection of proper microphone jack size stands as a fundamental requirement in audio and communication system development to maintain system reliability and compatibility. Our microphone connector experts at Amphenol NEXUS Technologies help explain how jack selection affects electrical integrity and mechanical fit which directly impacts system reliability and how the correct selection of microphone jack dimensions together with pin configurations becomes crucial when you want to integrate a microphone.

    In our guide, we explain different microphone jack types together with their main applications and selection criteria according to project specifications.

    Common Microphone Jack Types

    3.5 mm Mini Jack (1/8″)

    Audio systems use the 3.5 mm mini jack microphone as one of their primary interface standards for modern applications. This connector appears on multiple devices including portable recorders, laptops, cameras and communication headsets. This connector supports TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) and TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve) pinouts because the microphone functions for either stereo audio or mono input or inline control signal paths.

    his jack is commonly paired with:

    • Compact wired headsets
    • Lavalier microphones for portable use
    • Digital voice recorders
    • Microphones designed for smartphones or tablets

    hanks to its small size and broad compatibility, the 3.5 mm format is a practical solution for systems that prioritize space savings without compromising basic audio functionality.

    6.35 mm Jack (1/4″)

    he 6.35 mm jack, also referred to as the 1/4-inch jack, is most often found in professional and industrial audio setups. This format is valued for its durability, mechanical stability, and higher current-handling capabilities. In most applications, it is used with mono or stereo microphones, often in TRS configuration.

    ypical use cases include:

    • Instrument and studio microphones
    • Mixing consoles and rack-mounted gear
    • High-durability headset systems in harsh environments
    • Signal interfaces in legacy or analog broadcast hardware

    Due to its size, the 6.35 mm jack is best suited for fixed installations or equipment requiring high connection integrity and repeated plug cycles.

    2.5 mm Subminiature Jack

    Although less common in newer systems, the 2.5 mm jack remains in use for specialized communication hardware and compact devices. Its small footprint is ideal for handheld transceivers, radio communication headsets, or legacy electronics with minimal space.

    Application examples:

    • wo-way radios and walkie-talkies
    • Older camcorder microphones
    • Lightweight aviation and tactical headsets

    When used in the correct environment, this connector format provides reliable audio signal delivery without adding excess bulk.

    Choosing the Right Jack for Your Application

    When evaluating what size microphone jack do I need, consider the following:

    • Device compatibility: Review input specifications and signal requirements.
    • Mechanical design: Determine available space and required retention strength.
    • Environmental factors: Choose a size appropriate for mobile or ruggedized conditions.
    • Signal configuration – Match the jack format to the microphone’s wiring and application.

    Failure to select the correct jack can result in signal loss, connector failure, or the need for adapters that introduce unwanted resistance or noise.

    Supporting Precision in Audio Design

    In audio and communications design, interface reliability matters just as much as signal clarity. Whether you’re working with compact digital headsets, studio equipment, or field-deployed communication systems, choosing the right microphone jack type is essential for system performance and longevity. Our high-performance audio connectors at Amphenol NEXUS Technologies serve mission-critical applications for professionals in defense, aerospace and industrial sectors.

    Contact us today and speak to our Amphenol NEXUS Technologies specialists available to discuss microphone jack compatibility and connector solutions for your next upcoming system build.