Fakra Z Antenna Cable: Female to Female GPS, DAB and TV Uses

By CEN | Published: 2026-11-04

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use a 30cm Fakra Z female-to-female antenna cable for GPS, DAB, DVB and GSM. Step-by-step checks for a reliable connection.

Quick answer

Use a Fakra Z female-to-female cable to join two Z-coded Fakra sockets, such as a GPS, DAB, DVB or GSM device to its antenna. Check both ends are female Z before ordering, then route and test the 30cm run.

Why the Z code matters more than the cable length

Fakra connectors are colour- and code-keyed so that the wrong cable cannot be pushed onto the wrong socket. Code Z is the universal keying, and it is often used for aftermarket or multi-purpose runs. If your device socket is coded A, B, C or another letter, a Z plug may physically fit but the housing may not latch correctly, so confirm the code on both sides before buying.

The 30cm length is short by design: it is a jumper, not a full antenna lead. Use it to bridge a device to an existing antenna extension or to reach a nearby module. If you need to cross a dashboard or headliner, plan a longer extension rather than stretching this cable tight.

When a female-to-female cable is the wrong choice

A female-to-female Fakra cable joins two sockets. If either end of your run is a plug (male pin), you need a female-to-male cable instead. Also check that the device provides the signal you expect: a GPS receiver, DAB tuner, DVB TV tuner and GSM module all use different frequencies, and a cable alone cannot add a function your radio does not have.

If you are unsure which code or gender you have, photograph both connector ends before ordering. Guessing is the most common reason a Fakra cable gets returned.

How to fit and test a Fakra Z female-to-female cable

Identify both socket codes and genders: Look at the connector housing on the device and on the antenna lead. Confirm both are Fakra female sockets with code Z. If either is a plug or a different code, stop and choose the matching cable. Photograph both ends before ordering so you can compare the keying and pin side.
Plan the 30cm route before connecting: Lay the cable along its intended path with the radio or module still loose. Keep bends gentle and away from sharp metal edges or heat sources. If the cable will not reach without tension, add an extension rather than pulling it tight. Leave a small service loop so the connector is not load-bearing.
Connect with a straight push, not a twist: Align the keyway and push each female end straight onto its mating plug until it clicks or seats fully. Do not twist the cable to force it. A connector that will not seat usually has the wrong code or gender. A click or firm seat on both ends is the checkpoint; a loose fit means stop.
Test each function before final reassembly: Power the system and check the specific service: GPS lock, DAB station list, DVB picture or GSM signal. Compare against the previous setup. If one service drops, reseat that connector and check for a bent pin or damaged housing. Test before refitting trim so you do not have to remove it twice.
Secure the cable and strain-relieve the connectors: Use cable ties or clips on the cable jacket, not on the connector bodies. Leave enough slack at each end so vibration does not pull on the Fakra latch. Recheck reception after the trim is back in place. Tug gently on the cable, not the connector, to confirm strain relief.

Product facts

Fakra Z Antenna Aerial 30cm Cable Female to Female GPS GSM DAB DVB TV1: Fakra Z female-to-female cable, 30cm, with Code Z connectors on both ends. It is a direct socket-to-socket jumper for Z-coded GPS, GSM, DAB, DVB or TV antenna ports.
Fakra Z Antenna Aerial 30cm Cable Female to Female GPS GSM DAB DVB TV1