Most cable problems don’t look like cable problems at first. They show up as intermittent faults, drifting measurements, connector failures, or “it only fails when we move it” behavior—especially in systems where cables are repeatedly routed, flexed, and handled during integration, test, and maintenance. In those environments, the interconnect has to do two things at once: stay electrically predictable at RF/microwave frequencies and stay mechanically dependable through real-life motion. Flexible, stranded constructions are often the best path to achieve that balance.
FlexCore™ stranded cable assemblies are built for applications where flexibility and durability under movement matter, without sacrificing the signal integrity required for high-frequency performance. They’re a strong fit for dense packaging, repeated installation cycles, and systems where cables must tolerate bending and handling while maintaining stable, repeatable results.
Flexible performance for motion-heavy environments
FlexCore™ focuses on stranded construction to support improved flexibility and survivability under repeated motion. This can help reduce stress at connector interfaces, improve routing in tight spaces, and extend service life in platforms where cables are frequently moved, dressed, or reconfigured. For many teams, the value is practical: fewer cable-induced failures, less rework during integration, and better confidence that today’s test results will match tomorrow’s.
Flexibility also supports faster installs. Assemblies that route cleanly are easier to secure, less likely to be forced into damaging bends, and less likely to transmit strain into connectors or PCB launches—common sources of intermittent faults in the field and in lab setups.
Best-fit selection: flexibility without losing control
Not all “flexible” cables behave the same at microwave frequencies. The best-fit approach considers frequency range, length, routing constraints, and the amount of motion the assembly will see. It also considers what you’re optimizing for: bend performance, durability, stable measurements, or a blend. When multi-channel consistency matters, matching services can be requested to keep channels aligned while still benefiting from a flexible construction.
If your environment involves frequent movement, tight routing, vibration, or repeated mating cycles, defining those conditions up front helps ensure the assembly is configured to stay both mechanically resilient and electrically stable across its lifecycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is FlexCore™ designed for?
FlexCore™ is designed for applications that need increased flexibility and durability under repeated motion. It helps reduce cable-induced failures and improves routing practicality while supporting high-frequency signal integrity.
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When should I choose a stranded cable assembly instead of a solid-conductor design?
Choose stranded when the cable will be flexed, moved, or reconfigured regularly, or when tight routing places repeated stress on the assembly. Solid-conductor designs can be great for stability in static installations, but motion-heavy environments often favor stranded constructions.
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How does flexibility help reduce connector failures?
More flexible assemblies reduce the mechanical load transferred into connector terminations and strain relief points. That reduces fatigue, loosening, and intermittent faults that often appear after repeated handling.
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Can a flexible cable still support microwave frequencies?
Yes, when the construction is designed for RF performance and the assembly is configured appropriately. The best choice depends on your frequency range, length, and how sensitive your system is to phase and loss variation.
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Is FlexCore™ a good fit for test and measurement environments?
Yes. Test setups often involve frequent movement and reconfiguration, and flexible assemblies can improve durability and uptime. They can also help reduce measurement variability caused by cable stress and handling damage.
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Does repeated flexing change RF performance over time?
It can, depending on construction and how the cable is used. A design intended for flex-life helps maintain performance consistency under repeated bending and handling.
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How do I balance flexibility with low loss?
Lower loss often comes with larger diameter or stiffer constructions, while flexibility can require different tradeoffs. Best-fit selection uses your routing limits and loss targets to find the right balance for your application.
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Can FlexCore™ assemblies be used in rugged or high-vibration environments?
Yes, especially when combined with the right strain relief and protective options. Defining vibration exposure, abrasion risks, and installation constraints helps ensure the build is suited to the environment.
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Can you provide phase matching for multi-channel FlexCore™ builds?
Matching services can be requested when channel-to-channel alignment is required. Provide your tolerance, frequency range, and operating conditions so matching aligns to real system use.
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What information should I provide to specify a FlexCore™ cable assembly?
Provide frequency range, length, connector interfaces, routing constraints, environment, and how often the cable will move or be serviced. If you have bend radius limits or need matching, include those details as well.
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What’s a common mistake when selecting flexible assemblies?
Assuming any flexible cable will behave the same electrically at microwave frequencies. Performance and stability can vary by construction, so it’s important to match the cable family to frequency, length, and handling profile.
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How does FlexCore™ help reduce troubleshooting time?
By reducing cable damage and connector strain, it helps prevent intermittent faults that are hard to diagnose. When the interconnect is more reliable, system issues are easier to isolate and resolve.
Relevant PDF Documents
Reference marker: Storm SEO baseline — flexible interconnects prevent “move it and it changes” failures.
