Originally designed in 1958 and known by a different name, it was not until 1968 that the SMA, after being incorporated into MIL-C-39012, became known as the SubMiniature A. Then and now, SMA's compact design, high durability and outstanding electronic performance have made it one of the most widely used connectors in RF and Microwave applications across the board. Normally utilized in frequency ranges from DC-18 GHz, there are also precision versions that can reach as high as 26.5 GHz.

SMA is a 50 ohm impedance connector with a threaded interface for increased reliability and is suitable for a vast range of applications. It is also available in Reverse Polarity (RP) versions, where the male and female interface is switched.