At IMS 2026, ConductRF announced a significant expansion of its MAESTRO™ RF Cable Composer, introducing new capabilities that transform the platform from a basic cable configuration tool into a more advanced, system-level RF design and decision platform. The updated MAESTRO now enables RF engineers to analyze performance in real time, compare multiple design options, and better understand how cable and connector choices impact overall signal integrity and system performance, rather than simply selecting individual parts.
How MAESTRO Works
If an RF subsystem may require a 3-foot long, 0.141” diameter SMA cable assembly with operation up to 18 GHz, and needs to be connectorized with straight male SMA connectors.
With MAESTRO, the user can:
- Set cable length and performance requirements
- Select connectors and cable type
- Submit the configuration
The platform then displays real-time RF performance data, including key assembly specifications.
A key enhancement is MAESTRO’s ability to provide immediate visibility into RF performance as configurations are created. Engineers can now see real-time data such as insertion loss, VSWR, frequency handling, and shielding effectiveness, allowing them to evaluate how design choices such as cable length, cable type, and connector interface affect performance within defined frequency and loss requirements. This represents a shift toward system-level optimization, helping ensure final cable assemblies meet both electrical and mechanical expectations more accurately.
Another major addition is the platform’s automatic comparison capability. Once a configuration is submitted, MAESTRO presents results in a structured table along with similar cable assembly options. Engineers can compare flexible, semi-flexible, hand-formable, and semi-rigid cables from multiple proven suppliers, making it easier to evaluate trade-offs and identify the best-fit solution for a given application. This eliminates the need for manual cross-referencing across catalogs and datasheets.
The enhanced MAESTRO platform also introduces a more dynamic and interactive design environment. Instead of relying on static selection tools, engineers can now sort and filter parameters such as cable type, frequency performance, insertion loss, VSWR, shielding effectiveness, dielectric material, and cable diameter. The platform generates recommended assemblies while simultaneously suggesting alternative configurations that may offer better performance or suitability depending on design priorities. This allows for faster, more informed decision-making.
In addition to design and analysis improvements, MAESTRO now offers tighter integration between engineering and procurement workflows. Through a direct connection to the EZ cart e-commerce system, users can view real-time pricing, download CAD/STEP files, and place orders immediately after finalizing a design. This reduces delays typically associated with quoting and specification validation. Standard configurations are typically delivered within one to two weeks, supporting both rapid prototyping and production requirements, with no minimum order quantities and volume-based price breaks available.
The platform supports a wide range of RF and microwave connector interfaces, including 1.0 mm, 1.85 mm (V), 2.4 mm, 2.92 mm (K), 7/16, BNC, CBL, D38999, GPO, MCX, MMCX, N-Type, SMA, SMB, SMP, SMPM, TNC, VITA 67, and VITA 67 Nano. It is based on commonly used, field-tested components and includes both in-house and industry-standard options. The platform also supports a range of cable types, commercial and certified MIL-STD RG cables. Only certified RG cables are used, excluding “RG equivalent” variants, to maintain consistency with specification requirements.
MAESTRO’s expanded capabilities also extend to construction flexibility and customization. Users can select from standard cable jacket materials such as FEP, PTFE, PE, PVC, and Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH), which is particularly suited for enclosed and naval environments. For more demanding applications, the platform supports enhancements such as Nomex® and Kevlar® protective sleeving, waterproof and environmentally sealed designs, and corrugated or crush-resistant constructions with minimal impact on delivery timelines. Additional configuration options, including over-molded boots, strain reliefs, color coding, heat-shrink labeling, and laser or inkjet marking, allow assemblies to be tailored for improved installation, maintenance, and lifecycle traceability.
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