SHV connector

The SHV (safe high voltage) connector is a type of RF connector used for terminating a coaxial cable. The connector uses a bayonet mount similar to those of the BNC and MHV connectors, but is easily distinguished due to its very thick and protruding insulator.^[1] This insulation geometry makes SHV connectors safer for handling high voltage than MHV connectors,^[2] by preventing accidental contact with the live conductor in an unmated connector or plug. The connector is also designed such that when it is being disconnected from a plug, the high-voltage contact is broken before the ground contact, to prevent accidental shocks.^[2] The connector is also designed to prevent users from forcing a high-voltage connector into a low-voltage plug or conversely (as can happen with MHV and BNC connectors), by reversing the gender compared to BNC.^[1]

SHV connector

Male and female SHV connectors
Type	RF coaxial connector
Production history
Manufacturer	Various
Cable	Coaxial
Electrical
Max. voltage	5000 V DC
Max. current	5 A

Details of the connector comprising dimensions of the mating parts, voltage rating, minimum insulation requirements and more are specified by the IEC document 60498.^[3]

SHV connectors are used in laboratory settings for voltages and currents beyond the capacity of BNC and MHV connectors. Standard SHV connectors are rated for 5000 volts DC and 5 amperes,^[1][2] although higher-voltage versions (to 20 kV) are also available.^[4]