Patent Publication Number: US-2022216581-A1

Title: Rf waveguide cable assembly

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/847,785 filed May 14, 2019, U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/847,756 filed May 14, 2019, PCT Application No. PCT/US2019/033915 filed May 24, 2019, U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/971,315 filed Feb. 7, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63/004,441 filed Apr. 2, 2020, the disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Waveguide-based electrical communication systems often include WR15 connector flanges, for instance MIL-DTL-3922/67E. Such flanges typically mate with a radio frequency (RF) waveguide, and mount to some other complementary electrical device such as a printed circuit board. Thus, the printed circuit board is placed in electrical communication with the waveguide through the flange. However, waveguide interconnects configured to mate with a flange are bulky and limited by size, mechanical inflexibility, and bulk. For instance, waveguide interconnects typically include a rotating member that is rotated with respect to the flange in order to mate the waveguide to the flange. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a waveguide interconnect member is configured to releasably secure a dielectric waveguide to a complementary waveguide interconnect. The waveguide interconnect member can include a seat defining a seat defining a seat surface, a slider configured to translate along a longitudinal direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a biasing member that extends from the seat surface to the slider. The biasing member can be configured to apply a biasing force to the slider that urges the slider to travel in the engagement position. The slider can define a first retention surface that partially defines a variable sized gap, such that translation of the slider in the engagement direction reduces a size of the variable sized gap, and translation of the slider in the disengagement direction increases the size of the variable sized gap. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the present application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustrating the locking structures of the present application, there is shown in the drawings illustrative embodiments. It should be understood, however, that the application is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of a stranded electrical cable constructed in one example, with portions removed for the purposes of illustration; 
         FIG. 1B  is a perspective view of an unstranded electrical cable with portions removed for the purposes of illustration; 
         FIG. 2  is a SEM micrograph of a cross-section of an inner electrical insulator of the electrical cable illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1B ; 
         FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of a bundle of electrical cables in accordance with one example; 
         FIG. 3B  is a perspective view of a bundle of electrical cables in accordance with one example; 
         FIG. 3C  is a perspective view of a bundle of electrical cables in accordance with one example; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cables illustrated in  FIG. 1A and 1B , with portions removed for illustrative purposes; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic cross-sectional view of an electrical cable otherwise identical to the cable illustrated in  FIG. 4 , but including a solid inner electrical insulator instead of a foamed inner electrical insulator; 
         FIG. 6A  is a schematic side elevation view of a cable fabrication station; 
         FIG. 6B  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cable fabrication station including a cross-head; 
         FIG. 6C  is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the cross-head illustrated in  FIG. 6B , with electrical conductors and molten electrically insulative material disposed therein, showing the molten electrically conductive material encapsulating the electrical conductors; 
         FIG. 6D  is an enlarged portion of the cross-head illustrated in  FIG. 6C , showing electrical conductors extending therethrough; 
         FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of a waveguide including the electrical insulator illustrated in  FIG. 2 ; and 
         FIG. 7B  is an end elevation view of the waveguide illustrated in  FIG. 7A , but including an electrically insulative jacket in another example 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective side schematic view of a dielectric waveguide, an air waveguide termination and a WR15waveguide opening; 
         FIG. 9A  is a perspective view of an electrical communication system including a dielectric waveguide cable assembly and a complementary interconnect member, wherein the dielectric waveguide cable assembly is shown including a dielectric waveguide and a waveguide interconnect member, showing the dielectric waveguide cable assembly mated to a complementary interconnect member in one example; 
         FIG. 9B  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the dielectric waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 9A ; 
         FIG. 9C  is an exploded perspective view showing the dielectric waveguide, and the waveguide interconnect member in exploded view, the waveguide interconnect member including an inner waveguide interconnect and an outer waveguide interconnect; 
         FIG. 9D  is an exploded perspective view of the dielectric waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 9C , showing the showing the inner waveguide interconnect assembled to the outer waveguide interconnect; 
         FIG. 9E  is an exploded perspective view of the electrical communication system of  FIG. 9A , showing the dielectric waveguide cable assembly configured to be mated to the complementary interconnect member; 
         FIG. 10A  is a sectional side elevation view of a flange constructed in accordance with one example, wherein the flange is configured to receive a dielectric waveguide cable assembly; 
         FIG. 10B  is a front end elevation view of the flange of  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 10C  is a rear end elevation view of the flange of  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 10D  is a perspective view of the flange of  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 10E  is another perspective view of the flange of  FIG. 10A ; 
         FIG. 11A  is an exploded perspective view of a waveguide cable assembly aligned to be mated with a complementary interconnect member including a flange and an attachment member mounted to the flange; 
         FIG. 11B  is a perspective view showing the waveguide cable assembly mated to the complementary interconnect member of  FIG. 11A ; 
         FIG. 11C  is another perspective view showing the waveguide cable assembly mated to the complementary interconnect member of  FIG. 11B ; 
         FIG. 11D  is another exploded perspective view showing the waveguide cable assembly unmated from the complementary interconnect member of  FIG. 11C ; 
         FIG. 12A  is a sectional side elevation view of the waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 11A , showing a waveguide interconnect member in a natural position; 
         FIG. 12B  is a sectional side elevation view of the waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 12A , shown mated to the complementary interconnect member; 
         FIG. 12C  is sectional side elevation view of the waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 12A , shown being removed from the complementary interconnect member; 
         FIG. 12D  is an enlarged sectional side elevation view of a portion of the waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 12C , taken along line  12 D- 12 D; 
         FIG. 13A  is a perspective view showing the waveguide cable assembly mated to the attachment member of  FIG. 11A , which is in turn mounted to a printed circuit board; 
         FIG. 13B  is an exploded perspective view of the waveguide cable assembly and attachment member of  FIG. 13A ; 
         FIG. 14A  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 13A , but showing the attachment member mounted to another waveguide interconnect member; 
         FIG. 14B  is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 14A ; 
         FIG. 15A  is a perspective view of the waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 11 , shown mounted to a complementary right-angle interconnect member that is mounted to a printed circuit board; 
         FIG. 15B  is a sectional side elevation view of the waveguide cable assembly of and complementary right-angle interconnect member mounted to the printed circuit board of  FIG. 15A ;  FIG. 11 , shown mounted to a complementary right-angle interconnect member that is mounted to a printed circuit board; 
         FIG. 16A  is a perspective view of a data communication system including a waveguide cable assembly mated to a complementary interconnect member in accordance with another example, whereby the complementary interconnect member is shown mounted to a substrate; 
         FIG. 16B  is an end elevation view of the data communication system of  FIG. 16A ; 
         FIG. 16C  is a sectional side elevation view of the waveguide cable assembly and the complementary interconnect member of  FIG. 16B , taken along line  16 C- 16 C, showing the waveguide cable assembly aligned to be mated with the complementary interconnect member; 
         FIG. 16D  is a sectional side elevation view showing the waveguide cable assembly mated to the complementary interconnect member of  FIG. 16C ; 
         FIG. 16E  is a sectional side elevation view showing the waveguide cable assembly of  FIG. 16D  being unmated from the complementary interconnect member; 
         FIG. 17  is a sectional side elevation view similar to  FIG. 16D , but showing the complementary interconnect member having a right-angle mounting portion in accordance with another example; 
         FIG. 18A  is a sectional end elevation view of the data communication system of  FIG. 16D , but showing the complementary interconnect member constructed in accordance with an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 18B  is a sectional side elevation view of the data communication system of  FIG. 18A ; and 
         FIG. 19  is a side elevation view of a waveguide cable assembly including a waveguide and waveguide interconnect members at both opposed ends of the waveguide. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying figures and examples, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the scope of the present disclosure. Also, as used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include “at least one” and a plurality, unless otherwise indicated. Further, reference to a plurality as used herein includes the singular “a,” “an,” “one,” and “the,” and further includes “at least one” unless otherwise indicated. Further still, the term “at least one” can include the singular “a,” “an,” and “the,” and further can include a plurality, unless otherwise indicated. Further yet, reference to a particular numerical value in the specification including the appended claims includes at least that particular value, unless otherwise indicated. 
     The term “plurality”, as used herein, means more than one, such as two or more. When a range of values is expressed, another example includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. The term “a” as used in a singular context can further apply to a “plurality” unless otherwise indicated. Conversely, the term “plurality” can further apply to a singular “one” unless otherwise indicated. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-1B , an electrical cable  50  in accordance with one embodiment includes at least one electrical conductor  52  and an inner electrical insulator  54  that is elongate along a central axis, and surrounds the at least one electrical conductor  52 . As is described in more detail below, the electrical insulator  54  can be a foam. The electrical cable  50  can include an electrically conductive shield  56  that surrounds the inner electrical insulator  54 , and an outer electrical insulator  58  that surrounds the electrical shield  56 . The electrical shield  56  can provide electrical shielding, and in particular EMI (electromagnetic interference) shielding to the electrical conductor  52  during operation. 
     In one example, the electrical cable  50  can be configured as a twinaxial cable. Thus, the at least one electrical conductor  52  can include a pair of electrical conductors  52 . The electrical conductors can be oriented substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. Further, the pair of electrical conductors  52  can define a differential signal pair. Accordingly, while the electrical cable  50  is described herein as a twinaxial cable, it should be appreciated that the electrical cable  50  can alternatively be configured as a coaxial cable whereby the at least one electrical conductor  52  is a single electrical conductor. However, it should further be recognized that the electrical cable  50  can include any number of electrical conductors as desired. When the electrical cable  50  includes a plurality of electrical conductors  52 , the inner electrical insulator  54  can electrically insulate the electrical cables  50  from each other. 
     It is recognized that the electrical conductors  52  extend along respective lengths that can be measured along respective central axes of the electrical conductors  52 . Similarly, the electrical insulator  54  extends along a respective length that can be measured along a central axis of the electrical cable  50 . Further, the electrical shield  56  extends along a respective length that can be measured along the central axis of the electrical cable  50 . Further still, the outer electrical insulator  58  extends along a respective length that can be measured along the central axis of the electrical cable  50 . It is recognized that as fabricated, the respective lengths of the electrical conductors  52 , the electrical insulator  54 , the electrical shield  56 , and the outer electrical insulator  58  can be substantially equal to each other. Further, the electrical shield  56  can surround the inner electrical insulator  46  along at least a majority of its respective length. 
     However, during use, it is recognized that the electrical conductors  52  can be mounted to electrical contacts of a complementary electrical device. Thus, the electrical conductors  52  can extend out with respect to one or more up to all of the inner electrical insulator  54 , the electrical shield  56 , and the outer electrical insulator  58 . Accordingly, it can be said that the inner electrical insulator  54  surrounds the electrical conductors  52  along at least a majority of their respective lengths. Further, during use, it is recognized that the electrical shield can be mounted to at least one electrical contact of a complementary electrical device. Alternatively, the electrical cable  50  can include an electrically conductive drain wire that is mounted to an electrical contact of a complementary electrical device. Thus, the electrical shield  56  can extend out with respect to one or more up to all of the electrical conductors  52 , the inner electrical insulator  54 , and the outer electrical insulator  58 . Accordingly, it can be said that the outer electrical insulator  58  surrounds the electrical shield  56  along at least a majority of its respective length. The term “at least a majority” can refer to 51% or more, including a substantial entirety. 
     With continuing reference to  FIGS. 1A-1B , the electrically conductive shield  56  can include a first layer  56   a  that can surround and abut the inner electrical insulator  54 , and a second layer  56   b  that can surround the first layer  56   a . Alternatively, the electrically conductive shield can be configured as only a single layer that surrounds and abuts the inner electrical insulator  54  along at least a majority of its length. One or both of the first and second layers  56   a  and  56   b  can be made of any suitable electrically conductive material. For instance, the electrically conductive material can be a metal. Alternatively, the electrically conductive material can be an electrically conductive diamond-like carbon (DLC). The first layer  56   a  can be configured as an electrically conductive foil. For instance, the electrically conductive foil can be configured as a copper film that surrounds and abuts the inner electrical insulator  54 . The copper film can have any suitable thickness as desired. In one example, the thickness can be in a range from approximately 0.0003 inch to approximately 0.001 inch. For instance, the range can be from approximately 0.0005 inch to approximately 0.0007 inch. In one specific example, the thickness can be approximately 0.0005 in. It has been found that the copper film can withstand large tensile forces, as can occur when the electrical cable  50  is bent. As described above, the inner electrical insulator  54  can be made from dielectric foam, which has a lower resistance to bending than its solid dielectric counterpart at the same thickness. 
     The second layer  56   b  can be configured as a film that surrounds and abuts the first layer  56   a . The second layer  56   b  can be configured as a mylar film in one example. Alternatively, the electrical shield  56  can be configured as a braid. The electrical shield  56  can alternatively be configured as a flat wire, round wire, or any suitable shield as desired. In some examples, the electrical shield  56  can be configured as an electrically conductive or nonconductive lossy material. 
     In this regard, it will be appreciated that the electrical shield  56  can be suitable constructed in any manner as desired, including at least one electrically conductive layer. The at least one electrically conductive layer can be configured as a single electrically conductive layer, first and second electrically conductive layers, or more than two electrically conductive layers. In one example, the first electrically conductive layer  56   a  can be wrapped about the inner electrical insulator  54 . For instance, the first electrically conductive layer  56   a  can be helically wrapped about the inner electrical insulator  54 . Alternatively, the first electrically conductive layer  56   a  can be longitudinally wrapped about the inner electrical insulator  54  so as to define a longitudinal seam that extends along the direction of elongation of the inner electrical insulator  54 . Further, the second electrically conductive layer  56   b  can be wrapped about the first electrically conductive layer  56   a . For instance, the second electrically conductive layer  56   b  can be helically wrapped about the first electrically conductive layer  56   a . Alternatively, the second electrically conductive layer  56   b  can be longitudinally wrapped about the first electrically conductive layer  56   a  so as to define a longitudinal seam that extends along the direction of elongation of the inner electrical insulator  54 . 
     When the electrical shield  56  is configured as a single electrically conductive material, the single layer can be wrapped about the inner electrical insulator  54 . For instance, the single layer can be helically wrapped about the inner electrical insulator  54 . Alternatively, the single layer can be longitudinally wrapped about the inner electrical insulator  54  so as to define a longitudinal seam that extends along the direction of elongation of the inner electrical insulator  54 . In another example, the electrical shield  56  can include or be defined by an electrically conductive coating that is applied to the radially outer surface of the inner electrical insulator  54  along at least a majority of the length of the inner electrical insulator. The coating can be metallic. For instance, the coating can be a silver coating. Alternatively the coating can be a copper coating. Alternatively still, the coating can be a gold coating. The outer electrical insulator  58  can surround and abut the second layer  56   b.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 3A-3C , a bundle  55  can be provided that includes a plurality of the electrical cables  50 . For instance, as illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the electrical cables  50  can be arranged so as to define a round outer perimeter of the bundle  55 . The bundle  55  can include an outer sleeve  57  and a plurality of the electrical cables  50  disposed in the outer sleeve  57 . The outer sleeve  57  can include an electrical conductor  67  surrounded by an electrical insulator  69 . The electrical conductor  67  can provide electrical shielding. It should be appreciated that the electrical conductor  67  can be configured as a metal or electrically conductive lossy material. Alternatively, the electrical conductor  67  can be replaced by an electrically nonconductive lossy material. In one example, the outer perimeter of the outer sleeve  57  can be substantially circular. Thus, a plurality of electrical cables  50  can be circumferentially arranged in the outer sleeve  57 . Respective centers of the electrical conductors  52  of each of the electrical cables  50  can be spaced apart from each other along a direction. The bundle  55  can further include at least one coaxial cable  61  as desired. The coaxial cable  61  can include a single electrical conductor surrounded by an electrical insulator. The electrical insulator of the coaxial cable  61  can be configured as described herein with respect to the inner electrical insulator  54 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the direction of the respective electrical cables  50  can differ from circumferentially adjacent others of the electrical cables  50 . In one example, the direction of at least one or more up to all of the circumferentially arranged cables  50  can be substantially tangent to the outer sleeve  57 . For instance, the direction can be tangent to the outer sleeve at a location that intersects a line perpendicular to the direction and equidistantly spaced from the respective centers of the electrical conductors  52 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3B , the electrical cables  50  can be arranged in respective linear arrays of at least one electrical cable  50 , such that the electrical conductors  52  of each of the electrical cables  50  along a linear array are aligned with each other. Otherwise stated, the direction that separates the electrical conductors  52  from each other can be the same direction along each linear array. Further, the direction of each of the linear arrays can be parallel to the direction of one or more up to all others of the linear arrays. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3C , the bundle  55  can be elongate in cross-section. For instance, the outer sleeve  57  can surround two rows of electrical cables  50 . Each row of electrical cable  50  can define a linear array along a direction that separates the respective centers of the electrical conductors  52  of each of the electrical cables  50  along the linear array from each other. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1A , each of the electrical conductors  52  can be defined by a plurality of strands  59  that are disposed adjacent each other and in mechanical and electrical contact with each other. Otherwise stated, the electrical conductors  52  can be stranded. The strands  59  of each conductor  52  can be oriented substantially parallel to each other in one example. Alternatively, the strands  59  can be woven with each other, braided, or alternatively arranged as desired. Each electrical conductor  52  can include any suitable number of strands  59  as desired. For instance, the number of strands  59  can range from approximately 5 strands  59  to approximately 50 strands  59  as one example. In one example, the number of strands  59  can range from approximately 15 strands to approximately 30 strands. In certain specific examples, the number of strands  59  of each electrical conductor  52  can be approximately 7, approximately 19, or approximately 29. The strands can be cylindrical or alternatively shaped as desired. In some examples, the strands  59  can be fed into a sizing die so as to radially compress the strands against each other as desired. Alternatively, referring to  FIG. 1B , the electrical conductors  52  can define a single unitary monolithic solid structure  63 . Otherwise stated, the electrical conductor can be unstranded. The electrical conductor  52  can be cylindrical as desired. 
     The electrical conductors  52  can have any suitable size as desired. For instance, the electrical conductors  52  can have a size or gauge that ranges from approximately 25 American wire gauge (awg) to approximately 36 awg both when the electrical conductors  52  are stranded, and when the electrical conductors  52  are unstranded. Gauge size awg can be measured in accordance with any appropriate applicable standard, such as ASTM B258. Thus, it should be appreciated that the electrical conductors  52  can have a size that ranges from approximately 27 awg to approximately 29 awg or from approximately 31 awg to approximately 36 awg. When the electrical conductors  52  are unstranded, the electrical conductors  52  can have a gauge that ranges from approximately 26 awg to approximately 36 awg. When the electrical conductors  52  are stranded, the electrical conductors can have a gauge that is approximately 25 awg, ranges from approximately 27 aww to approximately 39 awg, or ranges from approximately 31 awg to approximately 36 awg. It should be appreciated that the sizes of the electrical conductors  52  are presented by way of example only, and the size of the conductors  52  should not be construed as limiting unless specifically so stated. 
     The electrical conductors  52 , whether stranded or unstranded, can be provided as any one or more suitable electrically conductive material. The electrically conductive material can be a metal. For instance, the electrically conductive material can be at least one of copper, copper-nickel (CuNi), silver, tin, aluminum, any suitable alloy thereof, and any suitable alternative materials. Further, in one example, the electrical conductors  52  can include an electrically conductive plating. For example, the electrically conductive plating can be a metal. In one example, the electrically conductive plating can be at least one of copper, silver, aluminum, tin, any suitable alloy thereof, and any suitable alternative materials. In one specific example, the electrical conductors can be defined by a silver-plated coper alloy. 
     The outer electrical insulator  58  can be any suitable electrically insulative material. For instance, the outer electrical insulator  58  can be at least one of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a polymer made of monomer tetrafluoroethylene, monomer hexafluoropropylene, and monomer vinylidene fluoride (THV), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a sealable polymer tape, and a non-sealable polymer tape. Alternatively, the material can be any suitable polymer such as polyethylene or polypropylene. It should be appreciated that any alternative polymer capable of being foamed is also envisioned. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , and as described above, the inner electrical insulator  54  can be a dielectric foam  62 . As will be appreciated from the description below, the dielectric foam  62  can be extruded. For instance, the dielectric foam  62  can be coextruded with the electrical conductors. The inner electrical insulator  54  can include the dielectric foam  62  and a plurality of gaseous voids at least partially defined by the dielectric foam  62 . The gaseous voids can thus be contained inside the electrical shield  56 . For instance, a plurality of the gaseous voids can be defined by a matrix of pores  64  in the dielectric foam  62 . In one example, all of the gaseous voids can be defined by the matrix of pores  64 . Alternatively, one or more of the gaseous voids can be defined by air pockets that are defined between the dielectric foam  62  and the electrical shield  26  as desired. Thus, the dielectric foam can include only a single electrically insulative material  60  that defines the matrix of pores  64  so as to define the dielectric foam  62 . The pores  64  can include a first gas. For instance, the pores  64  can include only the first gas in some examples. The gaseous voids defined between the dielectric foam  62  and the electrical shield  56 , if present, can include a second gas different than the first gas. For instance, an entirety of the gaseous voids defined between the dielectric foam  62  and the electrical shield  56  can include only the second gas. It should therefore be appreciated that the electrical cable  50  can include only a single electrically insulative material  60  inside the electrical shield  60  and the gaseous voids. 
     In some examples, the inner electrical insulator  54  can be a coextruded unitary monolithic structure that surrounds each of the electrical conductors  52 , as opposed to first and second discrete electrical insulators that surround respective ones of the electrical conductors  52 . The electrically insulative material  60  can be any suitable insulator. In one example, the electrically insulative material  60 , and thus the foam, can be a fluoropolymer. The fluoropolymer can, for instance, be a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) or a perfluoroalkoxy alkane. In one example, the fluoropolymer can be Teflon™. It is recognized that the dielectric foam  62  can be fabricated by introducing a foaming agent into the electrically insulative material  60 . In one example, the foaming agent can be nitrogen. Alternatively, the foaming agent can be argon. It should be appreciated, of course, that any suitable alternative foaming agent can be used. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , the electrical cable  50  is shown with the outer electrical insulator removed, to show various dimensions of the electrical cable, whereby the height and the width are of the electrical shield  56 . the inner electrical insulator  54  can be substantially oval or substantially racetrack shaped in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to one or both of the central axes, and thus lengths, of the electrical conductors  52  and the central axis, and thus length, of the electrical cable  50 . As a result, the electrical shield  56  can be in mechanical contact with a substantial entirety of the outer perimeter of the inner electrical insulator  54 . The respective centers of the electrical conductors  52  are spaced from each other any suitable separation distance  53 , or pitch, as desired along a direction. 
     The separation distance  53  can range from approximately 0.01 inch to approximately 0.035 inch. In one example, the separation distance  53  can range from approximately 0.01 inch to approximately 0.02 inch. When the electrical cable  50  is approximately 34 gauge awg, the separation distance  53  can be approximately 0.012 inch. The electrical shield  56  can have a height that ranges from approximately 0.017 inch to approximately 0.06 inch. For instance, the height of the electrical shield  56  can be approximately 0.021 when the electrical cable  50  is approximately 34 gauge awg. The height can be measured in cross-section perpendicular to the separation distance  53  that separates the electrical conductors  52 . For instance, the height can be measured in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the central axis of the electrical cable  50 , and thus is also oriented perpendicular to the central axes of the electrical conductors  52 . The electrical shield  56  can have a width that ranges from approximately 0.026 inch to approximately 0.095. For instance, the width of the electrical shield  56  can be approximately 0.0338 when the electrical cable  50  is approximately 34 gauge awg. When the electrical cable is approximately 33 gauge, the width of the electrical shield  56  can be approximately 37.4. The width can be measured in cross-section coextensive with the separation distance  53 . For instance, the width can be measured in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the central axis of the electrical cable  50 , and thus is also oriented perpendicular to the central axes of the electrical conductors  52 . Each of electrical conductors  52  can have a maximum cross-sectional dimension that ranges from approximately 0.005 inch to approximately 0.018. inch. For instance, the maximum cross-sectional dimension can be approximately 0.006 inch when the electrical cable  50  is approximately 34 gauge awg. Respective ends of the electrical shield  56  in cross-section can be defined by a swept radius from the respective centers of the electrical signal conductors  52 . The radius can equal one-half the height of the electrical shield  56 . The cross-section is in a plane that is perpendicular to the central axes of the electrical conductors  52 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4-5 , the electrical cable  50  of a given gauge size can be smaller than an otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ of the same gauge size but whose inner electrical insulator  54 ′ is of the same electrically insulative material, but solid as opposed to foamed. The otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ thus includes a pair of electrical conductors  52 ′, an insulator  54 ′, a shield  56 ′, and an outer electrical insulator  58 ′. All parts of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ are the same as the electrical cable  50  with the exception of the inner electrical insulator  54 ′. Further, as will be described in more detail below, certain dimensions and/or the electrical performance of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ can vary from that of the electrical cable  50  due to the difference between the foamed inner electrical insulator  54  of the electrical cable  50  and the foamed inner electrical insulator  54 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. 
     The foamed inner electrical insulator  54  of the electrical cable  50  can have a reduced thickness than that of the solid electrical insulator  54 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ at respective same locations of the foamed electrical insulator  54  and the solid electrical insulator  54 ′. Accordingly, the electrical cable  50  can have a reduced cross-sectional size with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. For instance, one or both of the height and width of the electrical cable  50  can be less than one or both of the height and width, respectively, of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ when the electrical conductors  52  are the same gauge as the electrical conductors  52 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Accordingly as described in more detail below, the electrical cable  50  can be similarly sized with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′, but can exhibit improved electrical performance, such as reduced insertion loss, with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Further, the electrical cable  50  can sized smaller than the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′, but can exhibit the same or better electrical performance, such as reduced insertion loss, with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. For instance, as will be described in more detail below, the electrical cable  50  whose conductors  52  are approximately 35 gauge awg can exhibit less insertion loss than the otherwise identical electrical cable whose conductors are approximately 34 gauge awg. Further still, the electrical cable  50  can be constructed with electrical conductors  52  having a reduced gauge (i.e., greater size in cross-section) than the electrical conductors  52 ′ of the otherwise identical connector  50 ′, while the width of the electrical shield  56  is approximately equal to the width of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 . Thus, when a plurality of the electrical cables  50  form a ribbon along the width direction, increased performance can be achieved without widening an otherwise identical ribbon that includes the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-2 , the pores  64  of the dielectric foam  62  can be disposed circumferentially about each of the electrical conductors  52 . The pores  64  provide electrical insulation while at the same time presenting a lower the dielectric constant Dk than the electrically insulative material  60 . In this regard, it can be desirable to fabricate the electrical cable  50  so as to limit the number of open pores  64 , meaning those pores that are not fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . Thus, the electrical cable  50  can be fabricated such that a majority of the pores  64  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . In one example, at least approximately 80% of the pores  64  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . For instance, at least approximately 90% of the pores  64  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . In particular, at least approximately 95% of the pores  64  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . For example, substantially all of the pores  64  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . 
     Further, the electrical cable  50  can be fabricated such that one or both of the radially inner perimeter and the radially outer perimeter of the inner electrical insulator  54  are defined by respective radially inner and outer surfaces that are substantially continuous and uninterrupted by open pores  64 . In this regard, the inner electrical insulator  54  can be geometrically divided into a radially inner half and a radially outer half. The radially inner half defines the radially inner perimeter and surface. The radially outer half defines the radially outer perimeter and surface. 
     In one example, at least approximately 80% of the pores disposed in the radially outer half of the inner electrical insulator  34  are fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material. For instance, at least approximately 90% of the pores  64  disposed in the radially outer half of the inner electrical insulator  34  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . In particular, at least approximately 95% of the pores  64  disposed in the radially outer half of the inner electrical insulator  34  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . For example, substantially all of the pores  64  disposed in the radially outer half of the inner electrical insulator  34  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . 
     Similarly, in one example, at least approximately 80% of the pores disposed in the radially inner half of the inner electrical insulator  34  are fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material. For instance, at least approximately 90% of the pores  64  disposed in the radially inner half of the inner electrical insulator  34  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . In particular, at least approximately 95% of the pores  64  disposed in the radially inner half of the inner electrical insulator  34  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . For example, substantially all of the pores  64  disposed in the radially inner half of the inner electrical insulator  34  can be fully enclosed by the electrically insulative material  60 . 
     The pores  64  can be distributed substantially uniformly about each of the electrical conductors  52 . For instance, substantially all straight lines along a cross-sectional plane that extend radially outward from the center of either of the electrical conductors  52  intersects at least one pore  64 . For instance, substantially all straight lines along a cross-sectional plane that extend radially outward from the center of either of the electrical conductors  52  can intersect at least two pores  64 . The pores  64  can have any suitable average void volume as desired that provides for the substantial uniformity and also imparts the desired dielectric constant to the inner electrical insulator  54 . In one example, the average void volume of the pores  64  can be less than the wall thickness of the inner electrical insulator. The inner wall thickness can be defined as the thickness from each of the electrical conductors  52  to either the outer perimeter of the inner electrical insulator  54 , or the thickness of the inner electrical insulator that extends between the electrical conductors  52 . In one example, the average void volume of the pores  64  can be less than approximately 50% of the wall thickness. For instance, the average void volume of the pores  64  can be less than or equal to approximately one-third of the wall thickness. The pores  64  can define a void volume that ranges from approximately 10% to approximately 80% of the total volume of the inner electrical insulator  34 . For instance, the void volume can range from approximately 40% to approximately 70% of the total volume of the inner electrical insulator  34 . In particular, the void volume can be approximately 50% of the total volume of the inner electrical insulator  34 . 
     Thus, the pores  64  can reduce the dielectric constant of the dielectric foam  62  to a lower dielectric constant Dk than that of the electrically insulative material  60  in solid form (i.e., without the pores  64 ). Otherwise stated the dielectric foam  62  can have a lower dielectric constant Dk than the insulative material  60 . The dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can be reduced by increasing the volume of pores  64  in the electrically insulative material. Conversely, the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can be increased by decreasing the total volume of pores  64  in the electrically insulative material. 
     It has been found that reducing the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can allow electrical signals to travel along the electrical conductors  52  at higher data transfer speeds. However, it has been further found that as the dielectric constant Dk decreases, the mechanical strength of the electrical insulator  54  can decrease due to the higher percentage of air or other gas relative to electrically insulative material  60 . Further, as the dielectric constant Dk decreases, the electrical stability of the electrical signals traveling along the electrical conductors  52  can decrease. In one example, the electrically insulative material and total volume of pores  64  can be chosen such that the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can range from 1.2 up to, but not including, the dielectric constant Dk of the electrically insulative material  60 . When the electrically insulative material is Teflon™, for instance, the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can range from approximately 1.2 Dk to approximately 2.0 Dk. In one example, the dielectric constant can range from approximately 1.3 Dk to approximately 1.6 Dk, it being appreciated that increasing the pore volume in the foam  62  can reduce the dielectric constant Dk of the foam  62 . For example, the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can range from approximately 1.3 Dk to approximately 1.5 Dk. Thus, the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  can be less than or approximately equal to 1.5 Dk. In some examples, the dielectric constant can be approximately 1.5 Dk. 
     It is recognized that the delay of the electrical signals being transmitted along the electrical conductors  52  (also known as propagation delay) is proportional to the dielectric constant Dk of the inner electrical insulator  54 . In particular, propagation delay (nanoseconds per foot) can equal 1.0167 times the square root of the dielectric constant Dk of the inner electrical insulator  54 . Thus, the propagation delay can range from approximately 1.16 ns/ft to approximately 1.29 ns/ft. For instance, the propagation delay can range from approximately 1.16 ns/ft to approximately 1.245 ns/ft. In this regard, when the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  is approximately 1.3, the propagation delay can be approximately 1.16 ns/ft. When the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  is approximately 1.4, the propagation delay can be approximately 1.21 ns/ft. When the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  is approximately 1.5, the propagation delay can be approximately 1.245 ns/ft. When the dielectric constant Dk of the dielectric foam  62  is approximately 1.6, the propagation delay can be approximately 1.29 ns/ft. 
     As described above, the electrical cable  50  with the foamed inner electrical insulator  54  can have improved electrical performance with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ whose inner electrical insulator  54 ′ is made of the solid electrically insulative material  60 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . For instance, the electrical cable  50  with the foamed inner electrical insulator  54  can have reduced insertion losses with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ whose inner electrical insulator  54  is made of the solid electrically insulative material  60 . The reduced insertion losses can allow the size of the electrical conductors  52  to be reduced with respect to the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 . It is appreciated that when the size of the electrical conductors  52  is reduced, the size of the electrical cable  50  can be reduced. As one example, when the electrical conductors  52  are 34 gauge, 1024 electrical cables  50  conventionally fit through a 1RU panel. When the electrical conductors  52  are higher than 34 gauge, more than 1024 electrical cables  50  can fit through a 1RU panel. 
     In one example, the electrical cable  50  whose electrical conductors  52  have a first gauge size can be configured to transmit data signals along the electrical conductors  52  at a first frequency having a first level of insertion loss. The first level of insertion loss can be substantially equal to or less than a second level of insertion loss of the otherwise identical second electrical cable  50 ′ conducting data signals along the electrical conductors  52 ′ of a second gauge size at the same first frequency. Further, each of the cables  50  and  50 ′ can have an impedance of approximately 100 ohms. 
     In one example, the first gauge size can be substantially equal to the second gauge size, and the first level of insertion loss can be less than the second level of insertion loss. In another example, the first gauge size can be greater than the second gauge size, and the first level of insertion loss can be substantially equal to the second level of insertion loss. In another example still, the first gauge size can be greater than the second gauge size, and the first level of insertion loss can less than the second level of insertion loss. 
     For instance, it has been found that when the first gauge size is approximately 34 awg, the electrical cable  50  can be configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at the first frequency of approximately 20 GHz with the first level of insertion loss no greater (that is, the negative number indicating a loss is no greater) than approximately −8 dB. When the electrical conductors  52 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ has the second gauge size equal to the first gauge size of approximately 34 awg, the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ transmits electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52 ′ at the first frequency of approximately 20 GHz with the second level of insertion loss of approximately −9 dB. 
     For instance, it has been found that when the first gauge size is approximately 34 awg, the electrical cable can be configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at the first frequency of approximately 20 GHz with an insertion loss no greater (that is, the negative number indicating a loss is no greater) than approximately −7.7 dB. When the electrical conductors  52 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ has the second gauge size equal to the first gauge size of approximately 34 awg, the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ transmits electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52 ′ at the first frequency of approximately 20 GHz with the second level of insertion loss of approximately −9 dB. Thus, the first level of insertion loss can be approximately 15% less than the second level of insertion loss. 
     In another example, when the electrical conductors  52  have a first gauge size of approximately 35 awg, and thus greater than the second gauge size, the electrical cable  50  can be configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at the first frequency of approximately 20 GHz with the first level of insertion loss no greater than approximately −8.6 dB. Accordingly, when the first gauge size is greater than the second gauge size at the same frequency and impedance, the insertion loss of the electrical cable  50  can be less than the insertion loss of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. For instance, the first level of insertion loss can be approximately 5% less than the second level of insertion loss. In this example, the first gauge size is greater than the second gauge size by approximately one awg. 
     In still another example, when the electrical conductors  52  have a first gauge size of approximately 36 awg, and thus greater than the second gauge size by approximately two gauge sizes awg, the electrical cable  50  can be configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at the first frequency of approximately 20 GHz with the first level of insertion loss no greater than the second level of insertion loss. Accordingly, when the first gauge size can be greater than the second gauge size at the same frequency and impedance, the insertion loss of the electrical cable  50  can be substantially equal than the second level of insertion loss of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. In this example, the first gauge size is greater than the second gauge size by more than approximately one awg, which can be referred to as a plurality of gauge sizes awg. Thus, the first gauge size can be a plurality of gauge sizes less than the second gauge size while maintaining substantially the same level of insertion loss at 20 GHz and at 100 ohms impedance. 
     Thus, the electrical conductors  52 ′ of the otherwise identical second electrical cable  50 ′ can have a second gauge size that is at least approximately one gauge size awg less than the first gauge size. For instance, the second gauge size can be a plurality of gauge sizes awg less than the first gauge size. Further, the inner electrical insulator of the otherwise identical second electrical cable  50 ′ can include the electrically insulative material  60  that is unfoamed and solid. For instance, the inner electrical insulator  54 ′ of the otherwise identical second electrical cable  50 ′ can be made of only the solid unfoamed electrically conductive material  60 . Thus, the electrical cable  50  can be sized smaller than the otherwise identical second electrical cable  50 ′ while providing electrical performance that is no worse than the otherwise identical second electrical cable when both cables  50  conduct electrical signals the substantially same frequency within a range of frequencies at the substantially the same impedance. 
     When the first gauge size is greater than the second gauge size, it will be appreciated that one or both of the height and width of the electrical cable  50  can be less than that of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Thus, when the first gauge size is greater than the second gauge size, it will be appreciated that one or both of the height and width of the electrical shield  56  can be less than that of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Further, it is further appreciated as described above that when the first gauge size is less than the second gauge size, one of the height and the width of the electrical shield  56  of the electrical cable can be substantially equal to the width of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical cable  50 ′. Thus, when the first gauge size is less than the second gauge size, one of the height and the width of the electrical cable  50  can be substantially equal to the width of the otherwise identical cable  50 ′. For instance, when the first gauge size is one gauge size awg less than the second gauge size, the width of the electrical shield  56  and thus the electrical cable  50  can be substantially equal to the width of the electrical shield  56 ′ and thus the otherwise identical cable  50 ′. 
     In one example, when the first gauge size is  32  and the second gauge size is  33 , the electrical cable  50  can define approximately the same width of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Similarly when the first gauge size is approximately 33 awg and the second gauge size is approximately 34 awg, the electrical cable  50  and the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ can define approximately the same width. In this regard, it is recognized that when the first gauge size is approximately 33 awg, and the electrical cable  50  has approximately 100 ohm impedance, when the electrical cable  50  transmits signals at 20 GHz along the electrical conductors, the insertion loss can be approximately −6.9 dB. Thus, when the first gauge size is approximately 33 awg, and the electrical cable  50  has approximately 100 ohm impedance, when the electrical cable  50  transmits signals at 20 GHz along the electrical conductors, the insertion loss can be less than the insertion loss of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ when transmitting signals at 20 GHz along the electrical conductors  52  at approximately 34 awg, and the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ has approximately 100 ohm impedance. 
     Similarly, when the first gauge size is  34  and the second gauge size is  35 , the electrical cable  50  and the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ can define approximately the same width. Further, when the first gauge size is 35 and the second gauge size is 36, the electrical cable  50  and the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′ can define approximately the same width. 
     Further still, when the first gauge size is approximately 32 awg and the second gauge size is approximately 33 awg, the electrical shield of the electrical cable  50  can define approximately the same width of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Similarly when the first gauge size is approximately 33 awg and the second gauge size is approximately 34 awg, the electrical shield of the electrical cable  50  can define approximately the same width of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Similarly, when the first gauge size is 34 and the second gauge size is 35, the electrical shield of the electrical cable  50  can define approximately the same width of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. Further, when the first gauge size is 35 and the second gauge size is 36, the electrical shield of the electrical cable  50  can define approximately the same width of the electrical shield  56 ′ of the otherwise identical electrical cable  50 ′. 
     As other examples of improved electrical performance of the electrical cable  50 , the electrical cable  50  can be configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at a frequency of approximately 8 GHz along an approximately five foot length of the electrical conductors  52 . When the electrical conductors  52  have a gauge of 26 awg, the transmitted electrical signals can have an insertion loss that is between approximately 0 dB and approximately −3 dB. Further, the electrical conductors  52  can be solid and unstranded. 
     In another example, when the electrical conductors  52  have a gauge of approximately 36 awg and the and a length of approximately five feet, the electrical cable  50  can be configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors at a frequency up to approximately 50 GHz with an insertion loss between approximately 0 dB to approximately −25 dB. The electrical conductors  52  can be solid and unstranded. 
     In a further example, when the electrical conductors  52  have a gauge of approximately 35 awg and a length of approximately 0.45 meter, the electrical cable is configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at approximately 112 gigabits per second with an insertion loss no worse than −5 decibels at approximately 28 GHz or less. 
     In yet another example, when the electrical conductors  52  have a gauge of approximately 33 awg and a length of approximately 0.6 meter, the electrical cable  50  is configured to transmit electrical signals along the electrical conductors  52  at approximately  11 2 gigabits per second with an insertion loss no worse than −5 decibels at approximately 28 GHz or less. 
     Further, electrical signals travelling along the electrical conductors  52  at frequencies up to approximately 50 GHz can operate without any insertion losses that vary more than 1 dB within a frequency delta of 0.5 GHz. That is, in this example, at any frequency up to 50 GHz, the frequencies of the electrical signals that vary less than 0.5 GHz from each other will not have respective insertion losses that differ by more than 1 dB. 
     The electrical cable  50  can further operate with reduced skew. Skew can occur when the electrical signals traveling from along a length of the electrical conductors  52  of the cable  50  can reach the end of the length at different times. The skew of electrical signals traveling along the electrical cable  50  has been tested per one meter of length of the electrical conductors  52 . For instance, the method of testing included cutting the electrical cable  50  to a specified length, and precision cutting one end of the cable to define a blunt and square end. The cable  50  was then placed into a fixture apparatus that retained the cable  50  in a substantially straight orientation. Next, the cut end of the cable was put into tooling and connected to a printed circuit board to which a solderless test fixture was mounted. The test instrumentation was then calibrated, and signals were applied to the electrical conductors  52  at a specified frequency, and skew was measured. 
     It was found in one example that the electrical conductors  52  of the electrical cable  50  can conduct electrical signals at 14 Gigabits per second while compliant with NRZ line code with no more than approximately 14 picoseconds per meter of skew. For instance, the electrical conductors  52  can conduct electrical signals at 28 Gigabits per second while compliant with NRZ line code with no more than approximately 7 picoseconds per meter of skew. In particular, the electrical conductors  52  can conduct electrical signals at 56 Gigabits per second while compliant with NRZ line code with no more than approximately 3.5 picoseconds per meter of skew. In one particular example, the electrical conductors  52  can conduct electrical signals at 128 Gigabits per second while compliant with NRZ line code with no more than approximately 1.75 picoseconds per meter of skew. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6A-6D , a system  70  and method can be provided for fabricating the electrical cable  50  as described herein. The system  70  can include a payoff station  72  that is configured to support a length of electrical conductors  52 . The system can further include a tensioner  74  that receives the electrical conductors  52  from the payoff station  72 , and applies tension to the electrical conductors  52  as they translate in a forward direction to a cable accumulator station  75 . The electrical conductors  52  can be maintained in tension from the tensioner  74  to the accumulator station  75 . The electrical conductors  52  can translate at any suitable speed as desired. In one example, the electrical conductors  52  can translate at a line speed that ranges from approximately 30 feet per minute to approximately 40 feet per minute. The tension applied to the electrical conductors  52  can maintain the electrical conductors in a predetermined spatial relationship relative to each other. For instance, the electrical conductors  52  can be maintained substantially parallel to each other as they extend in the forward direction. 
     The system  70  can further include a hopper  76  that receives pellets of the electrically insulative material, and an extruder  78  that is configured to receive the pellets from the hopper  76 . The electrically insulative material can include a suitable nucleating agent. The extruder  78  is configured to produce molten electrically insulative material from the pellets. The system can further include a gas injector that is coupled to the extruder  78  and configured to introduce the foaming agent into the molten electrically insulative material  60  to produce gas-infused molten electrically insulative material  60 . In particular, the foaming agent can be dissolved into the molten electrically conductive material. In one example, the foaming agent can be introduced into the molten electrically insulative material at a pressure that is from approximately 1 to approximately 3 times that of the molten electrically insulative material. For instance, the pressure is from approximately 1.5 to approximately 2 times that of the molten electrically insulative material. In particular, the pressure can be approximately 1.8 times that of the molten electrically insulative material. 
     The system  70  can further include a cross-head  80  that is configured to receive the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material  60 . Thus, the step of surrounding and coating the electrical cables with the molten electrically insulative material  60  can be performed after the step of introducing the foaming agent into the molten electrically insulative material. In some examples, it is envisioned that the foaming agent can be introduced into the molten electrically conductive material  60  in the cross head  80 . The electrical conductors  52  can travel from the tensioner through the cross-head, which causes the electrical conductors  52  to be coated with the molten electrically conductive material. The molten electrically conductive material further adheres to the electrical conductors. As the electrical conductors  52  exit the cross-head  80 , the pores can be generated in the electrically insulative material  60 , so as to produce the foam. 
     The cross-head  80  can include a die  82  that has an inner surface  84  that, in turn, defines an internal void  86 . The cross-head  80  can further include a tip  88  that is supported at least partially or entirely in the internal void  86 . The electrical conductors  52  can be directed through a conduit  87  that extends forward into the head  80 , and subsequently through the tip  88  that is aligned with the conduit  87 . The cross-head  80  can define a channel  90  that extends from the inner surface  84  of the die  82  and the tip  88 . In one example, the channel  90  can surround an entirety of the tip  88  in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the forward direction. The tip  88  can define an inlet  92  that receives the electrical cables  52 . The inlet  92  can be spaced from the die  82  in a rearward direction that is opposite the forward direction. The tip  88  can define an outlet  94  that is opposite the inlet  92  in the forward direction, and is disposed in the die  82 . The electrical cables  52  can thus be translated through the tip  88  from the inlet  92  to the outlet  94 . The gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can be directed from an injector  95  into a conduit  97  that is in fluid communication with an inlet  92  of the die  82 . Thus, the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can travel from the conduit  97  and into the channel  90  through the inlet  92  at a location upstream of the outlet  94  of the tip  88 . The gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can be at a temperature that ranges from approximately 200 F to approximately 775 F. For instance, the electrically conductive material  60  can be maintained at a barrel temperature that ranges from approximately 300 F to approximately 775 F in the barrel of the extruder  78 . In one example, the barrel temperature can range from approximately 625 to approximately 700 F. In the head of the extruder  78  downstream of the barrel, the electrically conductive material can be maintained at a head temperature that ranges from approximately 350 F to approximately 775 F. For instance, the head temperature can range from approximately 690 F to approximately 730 F. The electrically conductive material can be maintained at a throat temperature in the throat of the extruder  78  that can range from approximately 100 F to approximately 200 F. For instance, the throat temperature can be approximately 200 F, below the boiling point of water. 
     The gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can travel through the channel  90  from the inlet  96  to an outlet  98  of the die  82 . The outlet  98  of the die  82  can also define an outlet of the cross-head  80 . The channel  90  can have any suitable size and shape as desired. In one example, the channel  90  can define a cross-sectional area in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the forward direction. The cross-sectional area of the channel  90  can decrease in a direction from the inlet  96  toward the outlet  98  of the die  82 . In one example, the cross-sectional area of the channel  90  can decrease from the inlet  96  to the outlet  98  of the die  82 . Thus, the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can be at a pressure that increases as the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material travels through the channel  90  in the forward direction. For instance, the pressure of the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material in the channel  90  can be such that the electrically insulative material in the barrel of the extruder  78  is maintained at a barrel pressure that ranges from approximately 400 pounds per square inch (PSI) to approximately 2000 PSI. For example, the barrel pressure can range from approximately 600 PSI to approximately 1500 PSI. In some examples, the temperature of the electrically insulative material in the channel  90  can be maintained at a cooler temperature than the head temperature. For instance, the cooler temperature can range from approximately 2% to approximately 10% less than the head temperature. In one example, the cooler temperature can range from approximately 2% to approximately 5% less than the head temperature. 
     The outlet  98  of the die  82  can be aligned with the outlet  94  of the tip  88  in the forward direction. For instance, the outlet  98  of the die  82  can be colinear with the outlet  94  of the tip  88 . The outlet  94  of the tip  88  can be spaced from the outlet  98  of the die  82  in the rearward direction. Thus, the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can travel through the channel to a location between the outlet  94  of the tip  88  and the outlet  98  of the die  82 . Accordingly, the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can coat the electrical conductors  52  in the die  82  at a location downstream of the outlet  94  of the tip  88 . In particular, the electrical conductors  52  can be coated by the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material as the at least one electrical conductors  52  exit the outlet  94  of the tip  88  and travels into the die  82 . Thus, it should be appreciated that the electrically conductive material can be co-extruded with the electrical conductors  52 . The term “downstream” can be used herein to reference the forward direction. Conversely, the term “upstream” and derivatives thereof can be used herein to reference the rearward direction. 
     It should be appreciated that the die  82  and the tip  88  define a gap  100  therebetween in the forward direction. The gap  100  can be at least partially or entirely defined by the channel  90 . Further, the gap  100  can be an adjustable gap. In particular, the tip  88  can be selectively movable in the forward and rearward directions so as to adjust the size of the gap. Otherwise stated, the tip  88  can be selectively moved toward and away from the outlet  98  of the die  82 . Moving the tip  88  in the forward direction toward the outlet  98  of the die  82  can reduce the size of the gap  100 . Conversely, moving the tip  88  in the rearward direction away from the outlet  98  of the die  82  can increase the size of the gap  100 . It has been found that the size of the gap  100  can affect the average size of the pores. Thus, the method can include the step of controlling the gap  100  so as to correspondingly control an average size of the pores. In particular, reducing the size of the gap can increase the pressure of the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material in the channel  90  which, in turn can increase the average size of the pores. In one example, it can be desirable to maintain the gap  100  in a range from a minimum size to a maximum size. The minimum size can be approximately 0.025 inch, and the maximum size can be approximately 0.05 inch in certain examples. Thus, the gap  100  can be approximately 0.05 inch when the tip  88  is in a fully rearward position. The gap  100  can be approximately 0.025 inch when the tip  88  is in a fully forward position. When the tip  88  is in the fully forward position and it is desirable to further increase the pressure of the gas-infused electrically insulative material, the line speed of the electrical conductors  52 , and thus the flow rate of the molten electrically insulative material can be increased. Conversely, when the tip  88  is in the fully rearward position and it is desirable to further decrease the pressure of the gas-infused electrically insulative material, the line speed of the electrical conductors  52  can be decreased. It has been found that as the pressure of the molten electrically insulative material increases, the average void volume of the pores  64  can decrease. 
     When the electrical conductors  52  are coated with the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material, and travel out of the outlet  98  of the die  82 , the ambient temperature can cool the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material, and the pressure of the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material can be rapidly reduced. It is recognized that the size and shape of the outlet  98  of the die  82  can at least partially determine the size and shape of the inner electrical insulator  54 . Further, it can be desirable to prevent the molten electrically insulative material from adhering to either or both of the die  82  and the tip  88 . In one example, the die  82  and the tip  88  can be made from an austenitic nickel-chromium-based superalloy. For instance, the austenitic nickel-chromium-based superalloy can be provided as Inconel. It should be appreciated, of course, that the die  82  and the tip  88  can be made of any suitable alternative material. As the gas-infused molten electrically insulative material and the supported electrical conductors  52  exit through the outlet  98  of the die  82 , the gas in the electrically insulative material can rapidly expand, thereby forming the pores, and transforming the electrically insulative material into a foam. Further, the reduction in temperature can cause the electrically insulative material to solidify. 
     It is recognized that as the electrically insulative material transforms into the foam, the electrically conductive material can expand due to the formation of the pores. Thus, as the electrically conductive material expands, the distance that separates the electrical conductors  52  that are supported by the electrically conductive material also increases to a final distance that is substantially equal to the separation distance  53  (see  FIG. 4 ). The foam can be solidified while the electrical conductors  52  are separated from each other by the final distance. Accordingly, it can be desirable to maintain the electrical conductors  52  separated from each other at an initial separation distance prior to coating the electrical conductors  52  with the gas-infused molten electrically conductive material. In one example, the initial separation distance can range from approximately 5% to approximately 20% less than the final distance, and thus less than the separation distance  53 . In particular the initial separation distance can range from approximately 10% to approximately 12% of the final distance, and thus less than the separation distance  53 . The electrical conductors  52  can be separated from each other by the initial separation distance as they enter the cross-head  80 , and in particular as they enter the tip  88 . For instance, the electrical conductors  52  can be separated from each other by the initial separation distance as they exit the enter the cross-head  80 , and in particular as they exit the tensioner  74 . 
     The system  70  can further include a liquid bath  102  that is disposed downstream of the cross-head  80 , and thus downstream of the outlet  98  of the die  82 . The liquid bath can be maintained at room temperature, or any suitable alternative temperature as desired. The foam and supported electrical conductors  52  can translate through the liquid bath  102  so as to further cool and solidify the foam. The electrical shield  56  can be applied to the inner electrical insulator, and the outer electrical insulator  58  can be applied to the electrical shield in the usual manner. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7A-7B , while the dielectric foam  62  can define the inner electrical insulator  54  of the electrical twinaxial cable  50  in the manner described above, it is recognized that the dielectric foam  62  described above can at least partially define a waveguide  120  that is configured to propagate radio frequency (RF) electrical signals from a first electrical component to a second electrical component. For instance, the dielectric foam  62  can define an inner electrically insulator or dielectric  65  of the waveguide  120 . The waveguide  120  can be devoid of electrically conductive material in the dielectric  65 . That is, in one example, the waveguide  120  can be devoid of electrically conductive material that is disposed within an outer perimeter of the dielectric  65  in a plane that is oriented in cross-section with respect to the central axis of elongation of the waveguide  120 , along the length of the waveguide  120 . Otherwise stated, the waveguide  120  can be devoid of electrically conductive material inside a perimeter as defined by the electrical shield  56 . 
     The inner dielectric  65  can be configured as the dielectric foam  62  or as a solid dielectric. Alternatively or additionally, the inner dielectric  65  include or be configured as a flexible mono-filament that extends along a part or an entirety of the length of the waveguide  120 . Alternatively, the inner dielectric  65  can include or be configured as a plurality of flexible dielectric filaments or fibers that extend along a part or an entirety of the length of the waveguide  120 . Alternatively or additionally still, the dielectric waveguide  120  can include any suitable support member, different than the dielectric material  65 , disposed inside the perimeter as defined by the shield  56 . The support member can be a filament, fiber, or alternatively configured mechanical support members that adds one or both of strength and rigidity to the dielectric  65 . For instance, the support member can be embedded in the dielectric material  65 . The support members can be electrically nonconductive. In other examples, the support member can be made of the same material as the dielectric  65 . 
     The waveguide  120  can further include a shield  56  constructed in accordance with any manner described above with the shield  56  of the electrical cable  50 . Thus, the shield  56  can be configured as an electrically conductive shield that provides total internal reflection. The shield  56  can surround and abut outer perimeter of the dielectric foam  62  along a majority of the length of the foam  62 . For instance, the shield  56  can include the first layer  56   a  that surrounds and abuts the inner electrical insulator. The shield  56  can include the second layer  56   b  that surrounds the first layer  56   a . Alternatively, the shield  56  can include only the first layer  56   a . The first layer  56   a  can be configured as an electrically conductive coating applied to the outer perimeter of the dielectric  65 . The coating can be configured as a silver, gold, copper, or an alloy thereof. Alternatively, the first layer  56   a  can be a foil or tape of the type described herein, or any suitable alternative material. The second layer  56   b  can similarly be a foil or tape of the type described herein, or any suitable alternative material. As illustrated in  FIG. 7A , the outer perimeter of the electrical shield  56  can define the outer perimeter of the waveguide  120 . Alternatively, as illustrated in  FIG. 7B , the waveguide  120  can include an outer electrically insulative jacket  68 , also referred to as a dielectric jacket, that that surrounds the electrical shield  56  as described above with respect to the outer electrical insulator  58  of the electrical cable  50 . In this regard, because the electrical shield  56  can surround the dielectric  65  and the dielectric jacket  68  surrounds the electrical shield  56 , it can be said that the dielectric jacket surrounds the dielectric waveguide  65 . 
     When the inner dielectric  65  is configured as the dielectric foam  62 , the inner dielectric can be extruded through any suitable die in the manner described above, but without being coated onto the electrical conductors  52  as it travels through the die  82  (see  FIG. 6B ). In some examples the inner dielectric  65  can be extruded without being coated onto any other structures as it travels through the die  82  (see  FIG. 6B ). Thus, unlike the inner electrical insulator of the electrical cable  50  described above, the inner dielectric of the waveguide is devoid of conductor-receiving openings. Further, the cross-head  80  can be devoid of the tip  88 . Further still, the outlet  98  of the die  82  can define any suitable cross-section as desired, such as a cylinder. Thus, as the molten electrically insulative material travels through the outlet  98 , the molten electrically insulative material will define a cylindrical shape when it undergoes rapid expansion to produce the dielectric foam. In other examples described herein, the inner dielectric  65  can be extruded onto one or more dielectric fibers or filaments that extends along the length of the dielectric  65 . 
     In one example, the dielectric foam  62  can be the only material inside the electrical shield  56  other than gas. Alternatively, the inner dielectric  65  can further include one or more dielectric fibers or filaments that extend through the dielectric foam  62 . For instance, the one or more dielectric fibers can extend parallel to the central axis of the inner dielectric  65 . The molten electrically insulative material can be co-extruded with one or more dielectric fibers in the manner described above with respect to the electrical conductors  52 . Thus, the molten electrically insulative material can coat and adhere to the one or more dielectric fibers that travel through the tip  88 . The dielectric fibers can assist in the extrusion process, as the fibers provide a substrate for the molten electrically insulative material to adhere to during the extrusion process. The one or more fibers can be radially centrally disposed in the electrically conductive material as desired. Further, the one or more fibers can be electrically insulative. For instance, the one or more fibers can be configured as a filament, tape, combination thereof, or any suitable alternative structure that can be fed through the cross-head, such that the molten electrically insulative material coats and adheres to the one or more fibers. In one example, the one or more fibers can have a low dielectric constant Dk that is equal to or less than the dielectric constant of the electrically insulative material  60 . In one example, the one or more fibers can be expanded polytetrafluoroethytene (EPTFE). 
     During operation, electrical radio frequency (RF) signals can thus propagate along the length of the waveguide  120 , inside the electrical shield  56 . It should be appreciated that the waveguide  120  can be devoid of electrical conductors disposed inside the electrical shield  56 . Otherwise stated, in some examples, the only electrically conductive material that extends along at least a majority of the length of the inner dielectric  65  of the waveguide  120  can be the electrical shield  56 . 
     Simulations predict that in a frequency range of approximately 50-75 GHz, solid and foam dielectrics can both have a power rating of approximately 1 Watt, a transition phase stability of approximately ten degrees, and a voltage standing wave ratio of approximately 1.43:1. Both can have an end-to-end length of approximately 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 meters, a bending radius of &lt;75 millimeters, a twisting angle of approximately 180 degrees, and flex cycle failure of at least 100 cycles. 
     In contrast, and still at approximately 50-75 GHz, insertion loss for a foam dielectric with an attached separable dielectric waveguide interconnect can be approximately &lt;4.5 dB/meter, or approximately one half of the approximate &lt;9 dB/meter insertion loss for the solid dielectric/interconnect combination. First dielectric waveguide dimensions for the solid dielectric can be approximately 1.3×2.9 mm, while second dielectric waveguide dimensions for the foam dielectric can be approximately 1.5×3.3 mm. First termination dimensions for the solid dielectric can be approximately 1.9×3.8 mm, while second termination dimensions for the foam dielectric can be 1.9×4.0 mm. 
     The terms “approximately,” “substantially,” “about,” derivatives thereof, and words of similar import with respect to a distance, direction, size, shape, ratio, or other parameter includes the stated value along with all values+/−10% of the stated value, such as +/−5% of the stated value, for instance, +/−4% of the stated value, including +/−3% of the stated value, +/−2% of the stated value, and +/−1% of the stated value. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , the dielectric waveguide  120 , which can be a solid waveguide having a solid dielectric  65  or a foam dielectric  65  as described above, can define a non-circular cross-sectional shape. That is, the waveguide  120 , including the dielectric  65 , the shield  56 , and the outer jacket  68 , can be elongate along a central longitudinal axis  125 . It is recognized that the waveguide  120  can be flexible, and thus the central longitudinal axis  125  can extend along a non-linear path. As a result, a portion up to an entirety of the longitudinal axis  125  can extend along a straight longitudinal direction L, or along directions that are angularly offset to the longitudinal direction L. For the purposes of this description, the portion of the waveguide  120  of interest is oriented such that the longitudinal axis  125  is shown oriented along a straight longitudinal direction L. It is recognized that, as noted above, that the longitudinal axis  125  need not be so oriented during use. 
     The waveguide  120  can have a non-circular cross-sectional shape in a lateral direction A that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L, and a transverse direction T that is perpendicular to each of the longitudinal direction L and the lateral direction A. The non-circular cross-sectional shape can be an elongate cross-sectional shape in one example. For instance, the lateral direction A can define a width of the waveguide  120 , and the transverse direction T can define a height of the waveguide  120 . In one example, the waveguide  120  is wider along the lateral direction A than it is tall along the transverse direction T. Thus, in a cross-sectional plane that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis  125 , the waveguide  120  has a width along the lateral direction A and a height along the transverse direction T that is less than the width along the lateral direction A. Alternatively, the height can be greater than the width. In some examples, the waveguide  120  can define an oval or elliptical cross-shape in the cross-sectional plane. Thus, in some examples, the non-circular cross-sectional shape can be non-rectangular. In other examples, the height and width can be substantially equal to each other. For instance, the cross-sectional shape of the waveguide  120  can define a circle in some examples. 
     The waveguide  120  can terminate at a metal or metallic gaseous waveguide  118  that can transition into a complementary interconnect member  119 , such as a flange  135  (schematically illustrated at  FIG. 8 ). The central axis  125  of the dielectric waveguide  120  can also define the central axis of the gaseous waveguide  118 . The dielectric waveguide  120  can be referred to as a first waveguide, and the gaseous waveguide  118  can be referred to as a second waveguide. The flange  135  can be configured as a WR15 flange  136 , or other suitable flange as desired. In this regard, the complementary interconnect member  119  can be a flange  135  or any suitable alternative complementary interconnect member as desired. The flange  135  or other suitable interconnect member  119  can define an internal opening  121  that can contain air or other suitable gas. In one example, the internal opening  121  can be open to the ambient environment. In other examples, at least a portion of the opening  121  can be enclosed and filled with any suitable gas. The gaseous waveguide  118  ca be positioned immediately adjacent the opening  121 . 
     The gaseous waveguide  118  can define a cross-sectional area in a respective plane that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis  125  of the dielectric waveguide  120 . The cross-sectional area of the gaseous waveguide  118  can increase in a direction from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the complementary interconnect member  119 . As described above with respect to the dielectric waveguide  120 , the gaseous waveguide  118  can have a width along the lateral direction A that is greater than its height along the transverse direction T. The gaseous waveguide  118  can define a gaseous waveguide wall  127  that defines an inner gaseous waveguide surface  128  and an outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  that is opposite the inner gaseous waveguide surface  128 . The waveguide wall  127  can be metallic in one example. Alternatively, the waveguide wall  127  can be made of or otherwise include any suitable alternative electrically conductive material, such as an electrically conductive lossy material, in one example. The inner gaseous waveguide surface  128  can define an internal waveguide channel  131  (see  FIG. 12A ) that can contain air or any suitable alternative gas or other dielectric material as desired. Thus, some examples the gaseous waveguide  118  can be referred to as an air waveguide. In other examples, the gaseous waveguide  118  can be configured as a second dielectric waveguide. The gaseous waveguide wall  127 , including either or both of the inner surface  128  and the outer surface  130 , can define the non-circular cross-sectional shape described above. 
     The gaseous waveguide  118 , and in particular the inner gaseous waveguide surface  128  alone or in combination with the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130 , defines a transition from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the complementary interconnect member  119 . The cross-sectional area can be defined by the inner gaseous waveguide surface  128 . Further, the cross-sectional area can increase as it transitions from the approximate cross-sectional area of the dielectric waveguide  120 , and in particular from the dielectric  65 , to the approximate cross-sectional shape of the internal opening  121  of the complementary interconnect member  119 . More specifically, the gaseous waveguide  118  defines a first gaseous waveguide end  132  whereby the inner gaseous waveguide surface  128  has a first internal cross-sectional shape and size that is approximately equal to an external cross-sectional shape and size of the dielectric  65 . The gaseous waveguide  118  further defines a second gaseous waveguide end  134  whereby the internal waveguide surface  128  has a second cross-sectional size and shape that is approximately equal to a corresponding third internal cross-sectional size and shape of the internal opening  121  of the complementary interconnect member  119 . The first internal cross-sectional size and shape of the gaseous waveguide  118  can be smaller than the second cross-sectional size and shape. 
     In one example, the width of the gaseous waveguide  118  can increase from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the internal opening  121  of the complementary interconnect member  119 , thereby at least partially or entirely defining the increase in cross-sectional area of the gaseous waveguide  118 . The cross-sectional area of the gaseous waveguide  118 , and thus the waveguide wall  127 , can define a nonlinear transition profile from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the complementary interconnect member  119 . The transition profile can define a first tapered increase from the dielectric waveguide  120  to a larger increase in a direction toward the interconnect member  119 , to a second tapered increase from the larger increase to the interconnect member  119 . The height of the gaseous waveguide  118  can remain substantially constant from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the complementary interconnect member  119 . Alternatively, the height can increase from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the complementary interconnect member  119 . As described above, the relative widths and heights described above can apply to the inner gaseous waveguide surface  128  alone or also can apply to the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130 . The transition profile can be smooth, such that the interior gaseous waveguide surface  128  has no sharp edges or stepped transitions along the transition portion. Further, the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  can also be smooth, such that the interior gaseous waveguide surface  128  has no sharp edges or stepped transitions along the transition profile. 
     The dielectric  65  can define a free front end, which can be tapered end  122  as defined by at least one lateral side of the dielectric  65 . In particular, the dielectric  65  defines first and lateral second sides  124  and  126  that are opposite each other along the lateral direction A. Either or both of the first and second lateral sides  124  and  126  can converge toward the other one of the first and second lateral sides  124  and  126  along the lateral direction A as they extend in a first or forward direction from the dielectric waveguide  120  to the complementary interconnect member  119  along the longitudinal direction L. For instance, each of the first and second lateral sides  124  and  126  can be tapered toward the other one of the first and second lateral sides  124  and  126  along the lateral direction A as they extend in the forward direction. In one example, the taper is a linear taper. The first and second sides  124  and  126  can converge toward each other along the forward direction until they meet at a tapered tip  129 . Further, the first and second sides  124  and  126  can be planar surfaces, such that they taper straight and linearly toward each other as they extend along the forward direction. The first and second sides  124  and  126  can combine to define an arrow-shaped or dual tapered end  122 . Further, the gaseous waveguide  118  can be configured to receive the dielectric waveguide. In particular, the free tapered end  122  of the dielectric  65  can extend into the gaseous waveguide  118 . 
     Simulation predicts that using a tapered dielectric  65  as described herein and a metal or metallic gaseous waveguide  118  that terminates in an elongate cross-sectional shape as disclosed herein produces return loss better than −25 dB (i.e. approximately −27 to −30 dB) from approximately 50-75 GHz and from approximately 40-140 GHz. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 9A-9G , and in particular to  FIG. 9A , the dielectric waveguide  120  can be coupled to the complementary interconnect member  119 , which is shown as a standard WR15 flange  136 . In particular, a dielectric waveguide cable assembly  138  in one example can include the dielectric waveguide  120  and a dielectric waveguide interconnect member  140  that is configured to releasably attach to the complementary interconnect member  119 , which is shown in one example as a WR15 flange  136 . An electrical communication system can include the dielectric waveguide assembly  138  and the complementary interconnect member  119 , and can also include a complementary electrical device to which the complementary interconnect member  119  is interfaced. 
     As illustrated at  FIG. 9B , the dielectric waveguide  120  can be fitted with a seal member  142 , an externally threaded compression nut  144 , and a gasket  146 . The seal member  142  can be configured as a heat shrink tube that surrounds the dielectric jacket  68  in one example. The compression nut  144  can further be fitted over the dielectric jacket  68  at a location forward of the seal member  142 . The gasket  142  can similarly be fitted over the dielectric jacket  68  at a location forward of the compression nut  144 . Thus, the compression nut  144  can be disposed between the seal member  142  and the gasket  146  along the longitudinal axis of the dielectric waveguide. The dielectric jacket  68  can be stripped away along a second or rearward direction opposite the forward direction, thereby exposing the waveguide shield  56  and the dielectric  65 . The waveguide shield  56  can define a front end spaced in the rearward direction from the front end of the dielectric  65 . 
     The dielectric waveguide  120  can further be fitted with a retention ferrule  148 . In particular, the retention ferrule  148  defines a ferrule opening  149  that is configured to receive the dielectric  65  and the waveguide shield  56 . Referring to  FIG. 9C , the retention ferrule  149  can be fitted onto the waveguide shield  56 , such that the waveguide shield  56  extends through the ferrule opening  149 . In one example, the rear end of the retention ferrule  149  can abut the front end of the dielectric jacket  68 . The retention ferrule  149  can be soldered or otherwise attached to the waveguide shield  56 . 
     With continuing reference to  FIG. 9C , the waveguide interconnect member  140  can include an inner waveguide interconnect  150  and an outer waveguide interconnect  152 . In particular, the inner waveguide interconnect member can be fixed inside the outer waveguide interconnect  152  in one example to form the waveguide interconnect member  140 . It should be appreciated that a first waveguide interconnect member can be disposed at a first end of the dielectric waveguide  120 , and a second waveguide interconnect member can be disposed at a second end of the dielectric waveguide  120  opposite the first end (see  FIG. 19  showing waveguide interconnect members  170  disposed at the first and second ends of the dielectric waveguide  120 ). Thus, the dielectric waveguide  120  can terminate at either or both of its first and second ends at respective waveguide interconnect members. The inner waveguide interconnect  150  can define the gaseous waveguide  118  having the cross-sectional sizes and shapes described above with respect to  FIG. 8 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9D , the waveguide  120  can also define the first side  124  and the second side  126  at its front tapered end  122 . the inner waveguide interconnect  150  can be attached to the outer waveguide interconnect  152  in any manner as desired. In one example, the inner waveguide interconnect  150  can be internally threaded so as to threadedly mate with external threads of the outer waveguide interconnect  152 . The inner and outer waveguide interconnects  150  and  152  an attach to each other in accordance with any suitable alternative embodiment. Thus, the inner waveguide interconnect  150  can be non-threaded define external threads instead of internal threads. The outer waveguide interconnect  152  can extend out from the inner waveguide interconnect  150 . Further, as illustrated to  FIG. 9E , the inner waveguide interconnect  150  can attach to the compression nut  144 , such that the inner waveguide interconnect  150  is rotatably and translationally fixed to the compression nut  144 . The rear end of the inner compression nut  144  can extend between the front end of the seal member  142  and the dielectric jacket  68 . 
     With continuing reference to  FIG. 9E  and also to  FIG. 9A , the waveguide interconnect member  140  can be configured to attach to the complementary interconnect member  119 . In one example, the outer waveguide interconnect  152  can be rotatable with respect to the inner waveguide interconnect  150 . Further, the outer waveguide interconnect  152  can be threaded so as to threadedly attach to the complementary interconnect member  119 , illustrated as a WR15 flange  136 . For instance, the outer waveguide interconnect  152  can be internally threaded so as to thread onto an external threads of the WR15 flange  136 , thereby attaching the waveguide interconnect member  140 , and thus the dielectric waveguide cable assembly  138 , to the WR15 flange  136 . In particular, the outer waveguide interconnect  152  is rotated with respect to the WR15 flange  136  in a first direction of rotation so as to mate the dielectric waveguide cable assembly  138  to the WR15 flange. The outer waveguide interconnect  152  can be rotated with respect to the WR15 flange  136  in a second direction of rotation so as to unmate the dielectric waveguide cable assembly  138  from the WR15 flange 
     It is recognized that the waveguide interconnect member  140  can alternatively attach to the complementary interconnect member  119  in accordance with any suitable alternative embodiment. In this regard, it should be appreciated that the waveguide interconnect member  140  can be non-threaded or not define internal threads. For instance, the waveguide interconnect member  140  can define external threads. Similarly, the complementary interconnect member  119  can be non-threaded or not define external threads. The waveguide interconnect member  140  and the compression nut  144 , in conjunction with the retention ferrule  148  described above, can thread together or otherwise attach to each another or otherwise be translatably fixed with respect to each other. The complementary interconnect member  119  can interface with a complementary electrical device so as to place the waveguide  120  in electrical communication with the complementary electrical device. The complementary electrical device can be configured as a complementary waveguide, a substrate such as a printed circuit board, or any suitable alternative device as desired. 
     The inner waveguide interconnect  150  can define the gaseous waveguide  118  in some examples. Thus, the inner waveguide interconnect  150  can have the elongate cross-sectional shape as described above with respect to the gaseous waveguide  118 , and can thus also define the second gaseous waveguide end  134 . For instance, the second gaseous waveguide end  134 , and thus the inner waveguide interconnect  150 , can define a respective outer width and an outer height, whereby the outer width along the lateral direction a is greater than the outer height along the transverse direction T. The outer width is defined by the outer surface  130  along the lateral direction A, and the outer height is defined by the outer surface along the transverse direction T. The outer width can range from approximately 8 mm to approximately 26 mm, and approximately 1 mm increments therebetween. For instance, the width can range from approximately 8 mm to approximately 20 mm, including from approximately 10 mm to approximately 15 mm, for example approximately 12 mm. The width in some examples can be approximately 25 mm, approximately 24 mm, approximately 23 mm, approximately 22 mm, approximately 21 mm, approximately 20 mm, approximately 19 mm, approximately 18 mm, approximately 17 mm, approximately 16 mm, approximately 15 mm, approximately 14 mm, approximately 13 mm, approximately 12 mm, approximately 11 mm, approximately 10 mm, approximately 9 mm, or approximately 8 mm. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10A-10E , and as described above, the complementary interconnect member  119  can be configured as a flange  135 , such as a WR15 flange  136  or any suitable alternative flange as desired. One such alternative flange  154  is configured to mate with the dielectric waveguide cable assembly  138 . That is, the dielectric waveguide interconnect member  140  described above with respect to  FIGS. 9A-9E  can be configured to mate with the flange  136 . The flange  154  dan define first and second flange ends  157   a  and  157   b  that are opposite each other along the longitudinal direction L. For instance, the first end  157   a  can be positioned as a rear end, and the second end  157   b  can be positioned as a front end. Thus, the second end  157   b  is spaced from the first end  157   a  in the forward direction. The flange  154  can include at least one alignment member, such as a pair of alignment members, configured to align with the complementary electrical device. In one example, the alignment members can be configured as alignment pins  171  that extend out from the second end  157   b  in the forward direction. The alignment pins  171  are configured to be received in complementary alignment openings of the complementary electrical device. 
     The flange  154  can include a flange channel  159  that extends therethrough along the longitudinal direction L from the first end  157   a  to the second end  157   b . The flange channel  159  can include a first channel portion  159   a  and a second channel portion  159   b . The first channel portion  159   a  extends from the first end  157   a  in the forward direction. The second channel portion  159   b  extends from the first channel portion  159   a  to the second end  157   b . The flange  154  can include a flange body  156  and a hub  163  that extends in the rearward direction from the flange body  156 . The hub  163  can define the first end  157   a , and the flange body  156  can define the second end  157   b . The hub  163  can be externally threaded as described above with respect to the WR15 flange  154 . 
     The first channel portion  159   a  can be both wider along the lateral direction A and taller along the transverse direction T than the outer width and height of the second gaseous waveguide end  134  of the gaseous waveguide  118  (see  FIGS. 9-10E ). In one example, the first channel portion  159   a  can have a non-rectangular cross-sectional shape in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. In one example, the cross-sectional shape can be a dog bone cross-sectional shape whereby opposed lateral outer ends of the first channel portion  159   a  that are opposite each other along the lateral direction are taller along the transverse direction T than an intermediate portion of the first channel portion  159   a  that extends between the opposed lateral outer ends. The intermediate portion and the opposed lateral outer ends are all taller than the second gaseous waveguide end  134 . Further, the width of the first channel portion  159   a  along the lateral direction A is greater than the width of the second gaseous waveguide end  134 . Accordingly, the first channel portion  159   a  is sized to receive the second gaseous waveguide end  134  in the forward direction. The cross-sectional shape of the first channel portion  159   a  more closely matches the oval or elliptical shape of the second gaseous waveguide end  134  as compared to a rectangular cross-sectional shape. 
     The channel  159  transitions from the first channel portion  159   a  to the second channel portion  159   b , which has at least one reduced cross-sectional dimension that is less than both the first channel portion  159   a  and an outer dimension of the second gaseous waveguide end  134 . The reduced cross-sectional dimension of the second channel portion  159   b  can include at least one of a width and a height. Accordingly, the second channel portion  159   b  is not sized to receive the second gaseous waveguide end  134 . Rather, the second gaseous waveguide end  134  abuts an interior surface  161  of the flange body  156 . The interior surface  161  can face the rearward direction, or the first flange end  157   a . The interior surface  161  can define a rear opening of the second channel portion  159   b . The first channel portion  159   a  can extend from the first flange end  157   a  to the interior surface  161 . In one example, the second channel portion  159   b  can have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape in a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. The second channel portion  159   b  can have substantially the same size and shape as a conventional rectangular WR15 flange opening  158  having a rectangular cross-sectional shape (see  FIGS. 9A and 9E ). 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11A-11D , the dielectric waveguide cable assembly  138  can include a waveguide interconnect member  170  that is attached to or otherwise supported by the dielectric waveguide  120 . The waveguide interconnect member  170  can be configured to mate with a complementary interconnect member  119 . As will be described, the waveguide interconnect member  170  can be a push-pull interconnect, meaning that it can be releasably secured to the complementary interconnect member  119  by pushing the waveguide interconnect member  170  into the complementary member  19 , and the securement can be removed by pulling a latch (e.g., slider  182  shown at  FIG. 12A ), in which case the pull force applied to the slider  182  also removes the interconnect member  170  from the complementary interconnect member  119 . The complementary interconnect member  119  can include a flange  135  in the manner described above, along with an attachment member  172  that, in turn, is configured to be mounted to the flange  135 . Alternatively, the attachment member  172  can be monolithic with the flange  135  so as to define a single unitary structure. Alternatively still, the attachment member can be configured to mount to a different electrical device other than a flange, as described in more detail below. The flange  135  can further be mated with a complementary waveguide so as to place the waveguide cable assembly  138  in electrical communication with the complementary waveguide. 
     The attachment member  172  can include an attachment body  174  and a mating portion  176  that extends out from the attachment body  174 . In particular, the attachment body  174  defines a first end  175   a  and a second end  175   b  opposite the first end  175   a  along the longitudinal direction L. The first end  175   a  can be a rear end of the attachment body  174 , and the second end  175   b  can be a front end of the attachment body  174  that is spaced from the first end  175   a  in the forward direction. The mating portion  176  can extend from the first end  175   a  in the rearward direction. 
     As described in more detail below, the waveguide interconnect member  170  is configured to releasably mate to the mating portion  176  without substantial rotation either of the waveguide interconnect member  170  and the mating portion  176  with respect to the other of the waveguide interconnect member  170  and the mating portion  176 . As is described above, the term “without substantial rotation” and like terms and derivatives thereof refer to no more than five degrees of rotation, such as no rotation. The attachment member  172  defines an attachment member channel  178  that extends through the attachment body  174  and the mating portion  176  along the longitudinal direction L. The attachment member channel  178  is sized and configured to receive the gaseous waveguide  118  (see  FIG. 12B ). The attachment member channel  178  can be elongate in cross-section as described above with respect to the gaseous waveguide  118 . In one example, the attachment member channel can be wider along the lateral direction A than it is tall along the transverse direction T in the manner described above. For instance, the attachment member channel  178  can define an oval or elliptical cross-shape in a cross-sectional plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. The mating portion  176  defines at least one mating finger  180  that extends in the rearward direction from the attachment body  174 . The mating finger  180  can be segmented into a plurality of mating fingers  180  as desired. The mating fingers  180  can be resiliently radially flexible. In one example, the attachment member  172  can be metallic or can be made from any suitable alternative material as desired. 
     The first end  175   a  of the attachment body  174  can be mounted to the flange  135 . For instance, one or more threaded screws can extend through the attachment body  174  and purchase in threaded screw holes of the flange  135 . As described above, the flange  135  can define first and second flange ends  173   a  and  173   b  that are opposite each other along the longitudinal direction L. For instance, the first end  173   a  can be positioned as a rear end, and the second end  173   b  can be positioned as a front end. Thus, the second end  173   b  is spaced from the first end  173   a  in the forward direction. The flange  135  can include alignment pins  171  that extend out from the second end  173   b  in the forward direction. The alignment pins  171  are configured to be received in complementary alignment openings of a complementary electrical device. 
     The flange  135  can include a flange channel  179  that extends therethrough along the longitudinal direction L from the first end  173   a  to the second end  173   b . The flange channel  179  can include a constant cross-sectional size and shape along its entire length in one example, as is the case in the WR flange described above. Alternatively, the flange channel  179  can define first and second flange portions having different sizes and shapes as described above with respect to the flange  154  shown in  FIGS. 10A-10E . The flange channel  179  can be aligned with the internal waveguide channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide  118  along the longitudinal direction L (see  FIG. 12B ). The second end  175   b  of the attachment body  174  can define an opening  220  that is configured to receive a complementary waveguide, thereby placing the complementary waveguide in electrical communication with the dielectric waveguide  120 . In particular, referring again to  FIG. 12B , the waveguides can be placed in electrical communication with each other through the flange channel  179  of the flange  135 . In this regard, the flange  135  can be said to define an air waveguide through the flange channel  179  or through the second channel portion  159   b  of the flange  154  described above with respect to  FIGS. 10A-10E . The flange channel  179  is open to the internal waveguide channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide  118 . Further, the internal waveguide channel  131  can be continuous with the flange channel  179  along the longitudinal direction L. In this regard, the flange  135  can alternatively be configured as the flange  154 . 
     The waveguide interconnect member  170  will now be described with reference to  FIG. 12A . In particular, the waveguide interconnect member  170  can include a slider  182 , a seat  184 , and at least one biasing member  186  that extends from the slider  182  to a seat surface  189  of the seat  184 . The slider  182  and the seat  184  can each define a respective annular structure, and thus all walls and surfaces of the slider  182  and the seat  184  can similarly be annular walls and surfaces unless otherwise indicated. It should be appreciated in other examples, that the walls and surfaces of the slider  182  and the seat  184  can alternatively separate from each other and spaced from each other in cross-section, for instance as shown in  FIG. 12A . The seat surface  189  can face the forward direction. The slider  182  is translatable with respect to the seat  184  along the longitudinal direction L For instance, the slider  182  is translatable in the forward direction and in the rearward direction with respect to the seat  184 . It is appreciated that the slider  182  is translatable along the longitudinal direction L substantially without undergoing substantial rotation, and without substantially rotating any components of the waveguide interconnect member  170  with respect to the attachment member  172  and flange  135 , if the flange  135  is secured to the attachment member  172 . 
     The biasing member  186  can be configured as a spring such as a coil spring  187 . Alternatively, the biasing member  186  can be configured as an elastomeric mass or any suitable alternative resilient structure as desired. When the biasing member  186  is configured as a spring, the seat  184  can be referred to as a spring seat. The biasing member  186  is configured apply a biasing force to the slider that urges the slider  182  to translate in the forward direction, also referred to as an engagement direction. The slider is translatable in the rearward direction, also referred to as a disengagement direction, against the biasing force of the biasing member  186 . The outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  can define a shoulder that defines a front stop surface  183  configured to abut the slider  182  when the slider  182  is in a forward-most position. In particular, the front stop surface  183  can be configured to abut an abutment surface  191  of the slider  182 . The abutment surface  191  can face the forward direction, and is aligned with the front stop surface  183  along the longitudinal direction L such that the abutment surface  191  contacts the front stop surface  183  when the slider  182  is in its forwardmost position. For instance, when the waveguide interconnect member  170  is in its neutral position, the biasing member  186  urges the slider  182  in the forward direction against the front stop surface  183  to the forwardmost position. Thus, mechanical interference between the abutment surface  191  of the slider and the front stop surface  183  prevents the slider  182  from moving forward when the slider  182  abuts the front stop surface  183 . While the front stop surface  183  can be defined by the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  in one example, it is recognized that any suitable alternative surface of the interconnect member  170  can define the front stop surface  183 . 
     The slider  182  can define a projection, such as a collar  188 , that extends in the rearward direction from an abutment wall  185  of the slider that defines the abutment surface  191 . While reference is made below to the collar  188 , it is appreciated that the projection can assume any suitable alternative configuration as desired. Thus, description of the collar  188  can apply with equal force and effect to the projection, unless otherwise indicated. The abutment surface  191  is defined by a front surface of the abutment wall  185 . The collar  188  can extend rearwardly from the abutment wall  185  a sufficient distance so as to overlap the seat  184  at all positions of the slider  182  from the forwardmost position to a rearward-most position of the slider  182  as described in more detail below. In particular, the collar  188  can define a rear end that is aligned along the radial direction with a wall  190  of the seat  184  that defines the seat surface  189 . The collar  188  and the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  can cooperate so as to define a radial gap  196  therebetween. The biasing member  186  can be disposed in the radial gap  196 . In one example, the at least one biasing member  186  can include a pair of biasing members  186  that are opposite each other. It should be appreciated that any suitable number of biasing members can be disposed in the radial gap  196 . Alternatively, the biasing member  186  can be an annular biasing member that surrounds the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130 . 
     In one example, the wall  190  of the seat  184  can define a radially inner seat wall  190 , and the seat  184  can define a radially outer seat wall  192 . A radially inner direction can be defined as a radial direction toward the central longitudinal axis  125  of the dielectric waveguide  120 . A radially outward direction can be defined as a radial direction away from the central longitudinal axis  125  of the dielectric waveguide. The terms “radially inner,” “radially inward,” like terms and derivatives thereof refer to the radially inward direction. Conversely, the terms “radially outer,” “radially outward,” like terms and derivatives thereof refer to the radially outward direction. The term “radial direction” and like terms and derivatives thereof refer to a direction that can include both the radially inner direction and the radially outward direction. 
     The radially outer seat wall  192  can extend in the rearward direction from the radially inner seat wall  190 . Thus, the radially inner seat wall  190  can be referred to as a front seat wall, and the radially outer seat wall  192  can be referred to as a rear set wall. The radially inner seat wall  190  defines a first radially inner seat surface  193   a  and a first radially outer seat surface  193   b  that is opposite the first radially inner seat surface. The radially outer seat wall  192  defines a second radially inner seat surface  195   a  and a second radially outer seat surface  195   b  that is opposite the second inner seat surface  195   a . The second inner and outer seat surfaces  195   a  and  195   b  can be offset radially outward with respect to the first inner and outer seat surfaces  193   a  and  193   b , respectively. The seat  184  can further define a front seat shoulder surface  197   a  that extends radially inward from the second outer seat surface  195   b  to the radially inner seat wall  190 . The seat  184  can further define a rear seat shoulder surface  197   b  that extends radially outward from the first inner seat surface  193   a  to the radially outer seat wall  192 . 
     The front seat shoulder surface  197   a  can define a rear stop surface  207  for the collar that is configured to abut the collar  188  when the collar  188  is in a rearward-most position. Thus, the slider  182  can translate in the rearward direction until a rearward-facing surface of the collar  188  or any suitable alternative surface of the slider  182  abuts the rear stop surface  207 . Mechanical interference between the rear stop surface  207  and the slider  218  prevents further movement of slider  218  in the rearward direction. 
     The seat  184  can be fixedly secured with respect to the dielectric waveguide  120 . In one example, the waveguide interconnect member  170  can include a ferrule  194  that is attached to the dielectric waveguide  120 , and the seat  184  can be attached to the ferrule  194 . In one example, an adhesive  198  can attach the ferrule  194  to the dielectric jacket  68  of the dielectric waveguide  120 . In another example, a shrink wrap can extend over both the ferrule  194  and the dielectric jacket  68  so as to attach the ferrule  194  to the dielectric jacket  68 . The ferrule  194  can define a respective annular structure, and thus all walls and surfaces of the ferrule  194  can similarly be annular walls and surfaces unless otherwise indicated. It should be appreciated in other examples, that the walls and surfaces of the slider  182  and the seat  184  can alternatively separate from each other and spaced from each other in cross-section, for instance as shown in  FIG. 12A . 
     The ferrule  194  can include a radially inner ferrule wall  200 , and a radially outer ferrule wall  202 . The radially outer ferrule wall  202  can extend in the rearward direction from the radially inner ferrule wall  200 . Thus, the radially inner ferrule wall  200  can also be referred to as a front ferrule wall, and the radially outer ferrule wall  302  can also be referred to as a rear ferrule wall. The radially inner ferrule wall  200  defines a first radially inner ferrule surface  201   a  and a first radially outer ferrule surface  201   b  that is opposite the first radially inner ferrule surface  201   a . The radially outer ferrule wall  202  defines a second radially inner ferrule surface  203   a  and a second radially outer ferrule surface  203   b  that is opposite the second inner ferrule surface  203   a . The second inner ferrule surface  203   b  is offset radially outward with respect to the first inner ferrule surface  203   a . The second inner and outer ferrule surfaces  203   a  and  203   b  can be offset radially outward with respect to the first inner and outer ferrule surfaces  201   a  and  201   b , respectively. The ferrule  194  can further define a front abutment surface  204  that is partially defined by each of the radially inner ferrule wall  200  and the radially outer ferrule wall  202 . That is, a first portion of the front abutment surface  204  can extend from the first radially inner ferrule surface  201   a  to the first radially outer ferrule surface  201   b , and a second portion of the front abutment surface  204  can extend radially inward from the second outer radial ferrule surface  203   b  to the radially inner ferrule wall  200 . 
     The radially inner ferrule wall  200  can be sized to be inserted into the seat  184  in the forward direction. In particular, the radially inner, or front, ferrule wall  200  can be inserted in a radial gap between the radially outer seat wall  192  and the dielectric waveguide  120 . In particular, the radial gap can extend from the second radially inner seat surface  195   a  to the dielectric waveguide  120 . The outer jacket  68  can be stripped to a position rearward of the radially inner ferrule wall  200 , such that the radial gap extends from the second radially inner seat surface  153   a  to the shield  56 . In one example, the radially inner ferrule wall  200  can be press-fit into the radial gap, thereby attaching the ferrule  194  to the seat  184 . The ferrule  194  can be inserted into the radial gap until the front abutment surface  204  abuts the seat  184 . In particular, the front abutment surface  204  at the radially inner ferrule wall  200  can abut the rear seat shoulder surface  197   b . The front abutment surface  204  at the radially outer ferrule wall  202  can abut the rear surface of the radially outer seat wall  192 . 
     While the ferrule  194  can be press fit to the seat  184  in one example, it should be appreciated that the ferrule  194  can alternatively be attached to the seat  184  in accordance with any suitable alternative embodiment, including using mechanical fasteners or a solder joint. Alternatively or additionally, the ferrule  194  can be soldered to the shield  56  as desired. Alternatively or additionally still, the ferrule  194  and the seat  184  can define a single monolithic unitary structure. As described above, the ferrule  194  can be attached to the dielectric waveguide  120 . For instance, the adhesive  198  can bond the second radially inner ferrule surface  203   a  to the dielectric jacket  68 . Alternatively, a shrink wrap can extend over the dielectric jacket  68  and either or both of the ferrule  194  and the seat  184 . Because the ferrule  194  is attached to the dielectric jacket  68 , the waveguide interconnect member  170  can provide strain relief to the dielectric waveguide  120 . In this regard, the ferrule can be referred to as a strain relief member. During operation, a tensile force applied to the dielectric waveguide with respect to the waveguide interconnect member  170  will be absorbed at the interface of the ferrule  194  and the dielectric jacket  68 , thereby protecting the inner dielectric  65  and the outer shield  56  from the tensile force. 
     As described above, the biasing member urges the slider  182  to a natural forwardmost position, whereby the slider  182  abuts the front stop surface  183 . The slider  182  is movable in the rearward direction from the forwardmost position to a rearward-most position whereby the slider  182  abuts the rear stop surface  207  of the seat  184 . The collar  188  of the slider  182  can ride along the first radially outer seat surface  193   b  as it moves between the forwardmost position and the rearward-most position. In this regard, the collar  188  can be radially aligned with the first radially outer seat surface  193  both when the slider  182  is in the forwardmost position and when the slider  182  is in the rearward-most position. 
     As will be described in more detail below, the waveguide interconnect member  170  defines first and second retention surfaces  206  and  208  that are configured to releasably capture the mating portion  196  of the attachment member  172  in the retention gap  210  so as to secure the waveguide interconnect member  170  to the attachment member  172 . Thus, the waveguide interconnect member  170  is also secured to the flange  135  when the attachment member  172  is secured to the flange  135  (see also  FIG. 11A ). In particular, the slider  182  is movable between an engaged position whereby the retention surfaces  206  and  208  lock to the mating portion  196  of the attachment member  172  and a disengaged position whereby the mating portion  196  can be removed from the retention surfaces  206  and  208 . 
     The first retention surface  206  can be a beveled first retention surface. The first retention surface  206  can flare radially outward as it extends in the forward direction. In one example, the first retention surface  206  can be defined by the slider  182 . For instance, the first retention surface  206  can be disposed at a rear end of the slider  182 . The first retention surface  206  can be spaced forward from the rear stop surface  207 . The first retention surface  206  can be defined by a front surface of the abutment wall  185  of the slider  182 . The first retention surface  206  can be spaced in the radially outward direction with respect to the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130 . The first retention surface  206  can extend straight and linearly in cross-section, or can be curved as desired. 
     The second retention surface  208  can be a beveled second retention surface. The second retention surface  208  can flare radially outward as it extends in the forward direction. In one example, the second retention surface  208  can have a slope greater than that of the first retention surface  206 . Alternatively, the slope of the first retention surface  206  can be equal to or greater than the slope of the second retention surface  208 . In one example, the second retention surface  208  can be defined by the gaseous waveguide wall  127  of the metallic gaseous waveguide member  118 . Thus, the dielectric waveguide interconnect member  170  can include the gaseous waveguide  118 . The second retention surface  208  can be defined by the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  of the gaseous waveguide wall  127 . For instance, the second retention surface  208  can be offset from the front stop surface  183  in the forward direction. The second retention surface  208  can also be offset in the radially outward direction from the front stop surface  183 . The second retention surface  208  can extend straight and linearly in cross-section, or can be curved as desired. 
     The waveguide interconnect member  170  can define a variable sized retention gap  210  that extends between the and second retention surfaces  206  and  208 . For instance, the retention gap  210  can extend from the first retention surface  206  to the second retention surface  208 . The retention gap  210  has a size that varies as a result of translation of the slider  182  along the longitudinal direction L with respect to the gaseous waveguide  118 , and thus the waveguide wall  127 . In particular, as the slider  182  translates along the longitudinal direction L with respect to the gaseous waveguide  118 , the first retention surface  206  correspondingly translates along the longitudinal direction L. Thus, as the slider  182  translates in the forward direction respect to the gaseous waveguide  118 , the first retention surface  206  similarly translates in the forward direction toward the second retention surface  208 , thereby reducing the size of the retention gap  210  along the longitudinal direction L. Thus, it should be appreciated that the first retention surface  206  partially defines the variable sized retention gap  210 . As the slider  182  translates in the rearward direction respect to the gaseous waveguide  118 , the first retention surface  206  similarly translates in the rearward direction away from the second retention surface  208 , thereby increasing the size of the retention gap  210  along the longitudinal direction L. As described above, the biasing member  186  provides a force to the slider  182  that biases the slider in the forward direction. When the slider  182  is in the forwardmost position, whereby the abutment surface  191  abuts the front stop surface  183 , the size of the gap  210  defines a minimum size. When the slider is in the rearward-most position, whereby the collar  188  abuts the rear stop surface  207 , the size of the gap  210  defines a maximum size. 
     In this regard, it should be appreciated that the first and second retention surfaces  206  and  208  cooperate so as to define the variable sized retention gap  210 . While the size of the gap  210  can vary as a result of movement of the slider  182  along the longitudinal direction L, it should also be appreciated that the size of the gap  210  can vary when the slider  182  remains stationary, and the gaseous waveguide  118  translates along the longitudinal direction L relative to the slider  182 . That is, when the gaseous waveguide  118  translates in the forward direction respect to the slider  182 , the size of the retention gap  210  increases. When the gaseous waveguide  118  translates in the rearward direction respect to the slider  182 , the size of the retention gap  210  decreases. Thus, it can be said that translation of the slider  182  along the longitudinal direction L with respect to the gaseous waveguide  118  (and in particular with respect to the gaseous waveguide wall  127 ) can include movement of the slider  182  while the gaseous waveguide  118  (and in particular with respect to the gaseous waveguide wall  127 ) is stationary, movement of the slider  182  (and in particular with respect to the gaseous waveguide wall  127 ) while the slider  182  is stationary, and movement of each of the slider  182  and the gaseous waveguide  118  (and in particular with respect to the gaseous waveguide wall  127 ) while neither is maintained stationary. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12A-12B , the mating portion  176  of the attachment member  172  configured to be inserted into the retention gap  210  and releasably retained therein under the force of the biasing member  186  that urges the first retention surface  206  toward the second retention surface, thereby securing the waveguide interconnect member  170  to the attachment member  172 . In particular, the attachment member  172  can include the mating portion  176  that extends out from the attachment body  174  in the rearward direction. The mating portion  176  can include a plurality of mating fingers  180 , or can be alternatively constructed as desired. The mating fingers can be spaced from each other about the outer perimeter of the gaseous waveguide  118  which, as described above, can be non-circular, and oval or elliptical in some examples. 
     The mating portion  176  can flare radially inward at its distal end. In one example, the mating fingers  180  can flare radially inward at their respective distal ends. For instance, the mating portion  176  can include a retention bump  212  that projects radially from one or more up to all of the mating fingers  180 . For example, the retention bumps  212  can project radially inward from respective radially inner surfaces of the respective mating fingers  180 . The radially outer surfaces of the fingers  180  can be substantially planar when the mating fingers  180  are in their neutral position. The retention bumps  212  can be sized and configured to be inserted into the retention gap  210  so as to assist in locking the waveguide interconnect member  170  to the attachment member  172 . The retention bumps  212  can also assist in unlocking the waveguide interconnect member  170  from the attachment member  172 . In other examples, the retention bumps  212  can project radially outward from the respective mating fingers  180  depending on the configuration of the first and second retention surfaces  206  and  208 . In one example, the mating fingers  180  can extend in the rearward direction to respective distal free ends  214  that are configured to be received in the retention gap  210 . The retention bumps  212  can extend radially from the distal free ends  214 . 
     During operation, the gaseous waveguide wall  127  at the second gaseous waveguide end  134  is inserted into the attachment member channel  178  of the attachment member  172  in the forward direction. For instance, the second gaseous waveguide  118  can be pushed into the attachment member channel  178  in the forward direction. The gaseous waveguide wall  127  is further inserted into the attachment member channel  178  in the forward direction until the waveguide interconnect member  170  is mated with the complementary interconnect member, whereby the internal channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide  118  is aligned with and continuous with the internal channel of the complementary interconnect  119 , along the longitudinal direction L. The complementary interconnect  119  can be configured as the flange  135 , and thus the internal channel can be defined by the internal flange channel  179 . Alternatively, the complementary interconnect  119  can be configured as the flange  154  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 10A-10E , and the internal channel can thus be defined by the flange channel  159 . In particular, the internal channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide can be open to the first portion  159   a  of the flange channel  159 . Alternatively, the internal channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide can be open to the second portion  159   b  of the flange channel  159 . 
     As the gaseous waveguide  118  is inserted into the flange channel, the mating fingers  180  are fitted over the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  of the gaseous waveguide wall  127 . In particular, the retention bumps  212  ride along the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  in the rearward direction toward the retention gap  210  as the gaseous waveguide  118  is advanced forward into the attachment member channel  178 . The fingers  180  can define angled rear cam surfaces  216   a  and angled front cam surfaces  216   b  (see  FIG. 12D ). The rear cam surfaces  216   a  flare radially outward as they extend in the rearward direction. The front cam surfaces  216   b  flare radially inward as they extend in the rearward direction. In example, the cam surfaces  216   a  and  216   b  can be defined by the retention bumps  212 , but it should be appreciated that the cam surfaces  216   a  and  216   b  can be alternatively configured as desired. 
     The rear cam surfaces  216   a  are positioned and configured to cam radially outward over the front end of the gaseous waveguide wall  127  as the gaseous waveguide wall is introduced into the attachment member channel  178 . Thus, as the gaseous waveguide  118  is further inserted into the attachment member channel  178  in the forward direction, the fingers  180  ride along the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130 . For instance, the retention bumps  212  can ride along the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130 . It is appreciated that the fingers  180  flex radially outward from their neutral position to a radially flexed position as they ride along the outer surface  130  of the gaseous waveguide wall  127 . The mating fingers  180  can be configured as resilient spring fingers. Accordingly, the mating fingers  180  can be configured to apply a biasing force to the respective retention bumps  212  that bias the free ends  214  toward the neutral position. As a result, when the retention fingers  180  include the retention bumps  212 , the retention bumps  212  are urged radially inward. 
     As the waveguide interconnect member  170  is further inserted into the attachment member channel  178 , the attachment fingers  214  ride along the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  in the rearward direction until the free ends  214  of the attachment fingers  214  contact the slider  182 . Further insertion of the waveguide interconnect member  170  into the attachment member channel  178  causes the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  to urge the slider  182  to move in the rearward direction, thereby increasing the size of the retention gap  210 . The slider  182  is continued to move in the rearward direction against the biasing force of the biasing member  186  until slider  182  moves to the disengaged position, whereby the size of the retention gap  210  is sufficiently large such that the resilient force of the mating fingers  180  urges the free ends  214  into the retention gap  210 . In particular, the resilient force of the mating fingers  180  causes the free ends  214  to travel radially inward into the retention gap  210 . When the free ends  214  carry the retention bumps  212 , the retention bumps  212  travel radially inward into the retention gap  210 . 
     Because the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  is elongate in cross-section along a plane that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L as described above, the gaseous waveguide  118  does not undergo any substantial rotation with respect to the attachment member  172  or complementary interconnect member  119  along the longitudinal axis  125  as the gaseous waveguide  118  is inserted into the attachment member channel  178 . 
     Once the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  are disposed in the retention gap  210 , the biasing force of the biasing member  186  urges the slider  182  to travel forward to the engaged position whereby the retention bumps  212  are captured between the first and second retention surfaces  206  and  208 , respectively. As a result, the securement of the waveguide interconnect member  170  and the complementary waveguide  119  will prevent a rearward force applied to the dielectric waveguide  120  or the gaseous waveguide  118  with respect to the complementary interconnect  119  from causing the waveguide cable assembly  138  to unmate from the complementary interconnect  119 . 
     In this regard, it should be appreciated that the waveguide interconnect member  170  can be passively secured to the attachment member  172  by translating the waveguide cable assembly  138  in the forward direction with respect to the attachment member  172  until the attachment member  172  is secured to the waveguide interconnect member  170 . In particular, the waveguide interconnect member  170  can be translated in the attachment member channel  178  until the attachment member  172  is secured to the waveguide interconnect member  170  in the manner described above. It is appreciated that the waveguide interconnect member  170  can undergo pure translation and no substantial rotation about the longitudinal axis  125  as the waveguide interconnect member  170  secures to the attachment member  172 . It is recognized that the waveguide cable assembly  138  mates with the complementary interconnect member  119  when the waveguide interconnect member  170  is passively secured to the attachment member  172 . 
     In other examples, the waveguide interconnect member  170  can be actively secured to the attachment member  172  by pulling the slider  182  rearward to enlarge the retention gap  210  to a size that is sufficient to receive the mating portion  176  of the attachment member. Once the mating portion  176 , and in particular the fingers  180 , is received in the retention gap  210 , the slider  182  can be released, and the biasing force of the biasing member  186  can cause the slider  182  to move forward until the fingers are captured in the retention gap  210  in the manner described above. It is appreciated that the waveguide interconnect member  170  can undergo pure translation and no substantial rotation about the longitudinal axis  125  as the waveguide interconnect member  170  is actively secured to the attachment member  172 . 
     When the mating portion  176  is captured in the retention gap  210 , at least a portion of the first retention surface  206  can be 1) in abutment with the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180 , 2) disposed radially outward of the free end of the mating fingers  180 , and 3) radially aligned with the free end of the mating fingers  180 . Further, when the retention bumps  212  are captured in the retention gap  210 , the front cam surfaces  216   b  abut the second retention surface  208 . Thus, movement of the slider  182  relative to the attachment member  172  in the rearward direction can cause the second retention surface  208  to urge the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  radially outward. 
     However, with continuing reference to  FIG. 12B , when a separation force is applied to the attachment member  172  and the waveguide interconnect member  170  while the slider  182  is in the engaged position, the first retention surface  206  prevents the distal end of the finger  180  from moving radially outward a sufficient distance such that the distal end of the finger  180  can be removed from the retention gap  210 . Thus, when the mating portion  176 , and in particular the mating fingers  180 , of the attachment member  172  is captured in the retention gap  210  with the slider  182  in the engaged position, the first and second retention surfaces  206  and  208  prevents the mating portion  176  from being removed from the retention gap  210  when a longitudinal separation force is applied to the attachment member  172  and the waveguide interconnect member  170 . The biasing force of the biasing member  186  can retain the slider  182  in the engaged position. Accordingly, the interconnect member  170 , and the waveguide cable assembly  138 , is secured to the attachment member  172 , and thus also to the flange  135 . In one example, the engaged position of the slider  182  can be spaced in the rearward direction from the forwardmost position of the slider  182 . Alternatively, the engaged position of the slider  182  can be defined by the forwardmost position of the slider  182 . 
     When the waveguide interconnect member  170  is secured to the attachment member  172 , the attachment body  174  can radially surround the gaseous waveguide  118 , and the first end  173   a  of the flange  135  can abut the front end of the gaseous waveguide  118 . Further, the internal channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide  118  can be aligned with the flange channel  179  along the longitudinal direction, and continuous with the flange channel  179 . Thus, the flange  135  is placed in electrical communication with the waveguide cable assembly  138 , such that electrical signals can travel between the waveguide cable assembly  138  and the flange  135 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12C-12D , the slider  182  is movable in the rearward direction from the engaged position to the disengaged position to unsecure the waveguide interconnect member  170  from the complementary waveguide interconnect  119 . In this regard, the slider  182  can be referred to as a latch that is movable from the disengaged position to the engaged position when securing to the complementary interconnect member  119 , and movable from the engaged position to the disengaged position when removing the securement of the waveguide interconnect member  170  from the complementary interconnect  119 . In particular, a user can manually grip the slider  182  and apply a rearward force to the slider that is sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member  186 . In one example, an outer surface of the slider  182  can be textured to assist the user with gripping the slider  182  and applying the rearward pulling force. In other examples, the waveguide interconnect member  170  can include a pull tab that extends from the slider  182 . The user can grip the pull tab and exert a rearward pulling force on the pull tab that then urges the slider  182  to move in the rearward direction. The rearward force applied to the slider  182  can be communicated to the gaseous waveguide  118 . In particular, the rearward force applied to the slider  182  causes the biasing member  186  to compress, which thereby applies a rearward force onto the seat  182 , ferrule, and gaseous waveguide  118  which can all be translatably fixed to each other as well as to the dielectric waveguide  120 . 
     The rearward force applied to the gaseous waveguide  118  relative to the attachment member  172  causes the second retention surface  208  to urge the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  radially outward and out of the retention gap  210 . In particular, the front cam surfaces  216   b  are urged to ride along the second retention surface  208  in the forward direction, which urges the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  radially outward. However, as described above, the first retention surface  206  prevents radial outward movement of the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180 . When the slider  182  moves in the rearward direction to the disengaged position, the first retention surface  206  is moved to a position such that the variable sized retention gap  210  defines a size sufficient for the front cam surfaces  216   b  to ride along the second retention surface  208  in the forward direction, thereby urging the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  out of the retention gap  210 . Thus, the dielectric waveguide interconnect  170  is no longer secured to the attachment member  172 , and thus is also no longer secured to the flange  135 . The fingers  180  or retention bumps  212  then ride along the outer gaseous waveguide surface  130  as the gaseous waveguide wall  217  is removed from the attachment member channel  178  of the attachment member  172  until the waveguide cable assembly  138  is completely separated from the attachment member  172 . 
     Thus, the rearward force applied to the slider  182  that removes the securement of the waveguide interconnect member  170  to the complementary interconnect member  119  can also cause the gaseous waveguide wall  127  to travel in the rearward direction out from the attachment member channel  178 . Because a rearward force is applied to the slider  182  with respect to the second retention surface  208 , defined by the gaseous waveguide  118 , in order to unsecure the waveguide interconnect member  170  from the complementary waveguide interconnect  119 , it can be said that the waveguide interconnect member  170  can be actively unsecured from the complementary waveguide interconnect  119 . However, it is envisioned that in some examples, the slider  182  can be pulled rearward to the disengaged position without gripping or otherwise touching any other location of the waveguide cable assembly  138  other than the pull tab, if present. Thus, the waveguide cable assembly  138  can be unsecured from and removed from the attachment member  172 , and thus from the complementary waveguide interconnect  119 , by only applying a force to the slider  182 . 
     Because the slider  182  can be an annulus that is elongate in cross-section, as is the gaseous waveguide  118  and the seat  184 , the slider  182  is prevented from substantially rotating about the longitudinal axis  125  of the dielectric waveguide  120 , which can be defined by the longitudinal axis  125  of the waveguide cable assembly  138 . Accordingly, translation of the slider  182  along the longitudinal direction L between the engaged position and the disengaged position is a pure translation without any substantial rotation that assists in securing the waveguide interconnect member  170  to the complementary interconnect member  119 . Further, no portion of the waveguide interconnect member  170  substantially rotates substantially about the longitudinal axis  125  with respect to the complementary waveguide interconnect  119  so as to secure the waveguide interconnect member  170  to the complementary waveguide interconnect  119 , or to unsecure the waveguide interconnect member  170  from the complementary waveguide interconnect  119 . It is recognized that, depending on manufacturing tolerances, that the waveguide interconnect member  170  and components thereof could undergo some rotation about the longitudinal axis  125  with respect to the complementary interconnect member due to wiggling and the like, but that no substantial rotation occurs with respect to the complementary interconnect member  119 . That is, the waveguide interconnect member  170  and components thereof (and thus the dielectric waveguide  120  and the gaseous waveguide  118  and components thereof) undergo no more than  5  degrees of rotation, including no rotation, relative to the complementary interconnect member  119  about the longitudinal axis  125  when selectively securing to and unsecuring from the complementary interconnect member  119 . 
     It should be appreciated that the forward direction of travel of the slider  182  can be referred to as a first direction or engagement direction, and that rearward direction of travel of the slider  18   e  can be referred to as a second direction or disengagement direction that is opposite the first direction or engagement direction. In this regard, other examples are contemplated whereby the engagement direction is the rearward direction, and the disengagement direction is the forward direction. However, the engagement direction in the rearward direction can be particularly advantageous because grasping and moving the slider  182  in the rearward direction also imparts a rearward force on the waveguide interconnect member  170 , which causes the interconnect member  170  to be removed from the attachment member  172  when the slider has moved to the disengaged position. 
     It should be appreciated that while the mating portion  176  has been described as having the mating fingers  180  and retention bumps  212 , the mating portion  176  can be configured in accordance with any suitable alternative embodiment. Thus, the description above with respect to spring fingers and retention bumps can apply equally to the mating portion  176  unless otherwise indicated. Thus, the free ends  214  of the mating fingers  180  can also be referred to as free ends or distal ends of the mating portion  176 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 13A-13B , while the attachment member  172  can be attached to a flange in one example described above, the attachment member  172  can be attached to any suitable alternative interconnect member  119 , the attachment member  172  can alternatively terminate at a substrate  218 , thereby placing the dielectric waveguide  120  in electrical communication with the substrate. In particular, a termination member  123  can be mounted to the second side  219   b  of the substrate  219  to close the front end of the attachment member channel  178 , for instance, if the attachment member  172  extends into or through an opening in the substrate  218 . In one example, the substrate  218  can be configured as a printed circuit board (PCB). 
     In still other examples illustrated in  FIGS. 14A-14B , the attachment member  172  can be mounted to a first side  219   a  of the substrate  218 , and can be further mounted to a second board attachment member  220  that is mounted to a second side  219   b  of the substrate opposite the first side  219   a . The first side  219   a  can define a rear side of the substrate  218 , and the second side  219   b  can define a front side of the substrate  218 . Thus, the first and second sides  219   a  and  219   b  can be opposite each other along the longitudinal direction. The second board attachment member  220  includes a second attachment body  222  and a channel  224  that extends through the second attachment body  222 . The second attachment body  222  can be made of metal or any suitable electrically conductive material, such as a lossy material. Thus, the channel  224  can define an air waveguide. The second board attachment member  220  can be mounted to a second interconnect member  226  having a second interconnect body  228  and a second interconnect channel  230  that extends through the second interconnect body  228 . The second interconnect body  228  can be metallic or made of any suitable alternative electrically conductive material such as an electrically conductive lossy material. Thus, the second interconnect channel can define a second interconnect air waveguide. The second interconnect channel  230  can be aligned with the channel  224  of the second attachment body  222  along the longitudinal direction which, in turn, are aligned with an opening that extends through the substrate  218  along the longitudinal direction, and the internal waveguide channel  131  of the gaseous waveguide  118  (see  FIG. 12B ). Further, the first side  219   a  of the substrate  218  can abut the front end of the gaseous waveguide  118  as described above with respect to the flange  135  (see  FIG. 12B ). It should be appreciated that all channels can define the elongate cross-sectional shape described above or any suitable alternative shape as desired. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11A-14B , the complementary interconnect member  119 , including the attachment member  220  can be configured as a vertical interconnect member that propagates electrical signals from the dielectric waveguide  120  along the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, referring now to  FIGS. 15A-15B , the complementary interconnect member  119  can be configured as a right-angle attachment member  232  that receives the electrical signals from the waveguide cable assembly  138  along the longitudinal direction L, and routes the electrical signals along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. For instance, the complementary right-angle attachment member  232  can route the electrical signals along the transverse direction T. 
     The right-angle attachment member  232  can define a right-angle attachment body  234  and a mating portion  236  that extends out from the right-angle attachment body  234 . The mating portion  236  can include the at least one mating finger  180  such as a plurality of mating fingers  180  as described above. Thus, the mating fingers  180  can include the retention bumps  212  as described above. The waveguide interconnect member  170  can be secured and released from the mating portion  236  of the right-angle attachment member  232  as described above with respect to the vertical attachment member  172  of  FIGS. 11A-12D . The gaseous waveguide  118  can extend into the attachment member channel  178  until the gaseous waveguide wall  127  abuts a shoulder  173  of the right-angle attachment body  234 , such that the internal waveguide channel  131  is aligned with the attachment member channel  178  along the longitudinal direction. Further, the internal waveguide channel  131  can be continuous with the attachment member channel  178 . Thus, the right-angle attachment member  232  can be placed in electrical communication with the waveguide cable assembly  138 , such that electrical signals can travel between the waveguide cable assembly  138  and the right-angle attachment member  232 . 
     The right-angle attachment body  234  can define a mounting portion  235  that is configured to mount to a first side  219   a  of the substrate  218  in the manner described above. However, as illustrated in  FIGS. 15A-15B , the first and second sides  219   a  and  219   b  of the substrate  218  can be opposite each other along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. For instance, the first and second sides  219   a  and  219   b  of the substrate  218  can be opposite each other along the transverse direction T. Further, the right-angle attachment body  234  can terminate at the substrate  218  in some examples. The right-angle attachment body  234  can include an electrically conductive antenna  238  that extends through the mounting portion  235  an into the attachment member channel  178  that extends through the right-angle attachment body  234 . Thus, the electrically conductive antennal  238  can receive the electrical signals that travel from the waveguide cable assembly  138  and into the attachment member channel  178 . The electrically conductive antenna  238  can mount onto a complementary electrical device such as an electrical connector that is mounted to the substrate  118 , or can be mounted direction to the substrate  218 , and in particular can mount to the first side  219   a  of the substrate  219   a . The antenna  238  can be surrounded by a dielectric, and attached to the dielectric, if desired. The substrate  218  can then route the electrical signals as desired. In one examples, a pair of waveguide cable assemblies  138  can be secured to right-angle attachment members that are mounted to a common substrate in the manner described above. The common substrate can route the electrical signals between the two right-angle attachment members so as to place the two waveguide cable assemblies in electrical communication with each other. 
     While the waveguide interconnect member  170  has been described in connection with one example, it should be appreciated that the waveguide cable assembly  138  can include waveguide interconnect members in accordance with any suitable alternative embodiment. For instance, another example of a waveguide interconnect member  250  that is configured to mate with a complementary interconnect member  252  will now be described with reference to  FIGS. 16A-16E . As will be appreciated from the description below the waveguide interconnect member can be configured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position while undergoing pure translation along the longitudinal direction, and thus without substantial rotation about the longitudinal axis  125  with respect to the complementary interconnect member  119 . The complementary interconnect member  252  can be configured as an attachment member  172  generally of the type described above. While the complementary interconnect member  252  can be configured as a right-angle interconnect member as shown, the complementary interconnect member  252  can alternatively be configured as a vertical interconnect member in the manner described above. In other examples, the complementary interconnect member  252  can be configured as a flange in the manner described above. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16C , the waveguide interconnect member  250  can include a ferrule  254  that surrounds the dielectric waveguide  120 , and is configured to attach to the outer dielectric jacket  68 . As described above with respect to the ferrule  194  ( FIG. 12A ), the ferrule  254  can be adhesively attached to the dielectric jacket  68 . Alternatively or additionally, a shrink wrap can extend over the ferrule  254  and the dielectric jacket  68  so as to attach the ferrule  254  to the dielectric jacket  68 . Any suitable attachment member can alternatively attach the ferrule  254  to the dielectric jacket  68 . Thus, the ferrule  254  can define a strain relief member that provides strain relief to the dielectric waveguide in the manner described above. The dielectric jacket  68  can terminate at a location radially aligned with the ferrule  254 . The shield  56  extends forward of the dielectric jacket  68 . The waveguide cable assembly  138  further includes a gaseous waveguide wall  256  that extends over and contacts the front end of the shield  56 . The gaseous waveguide wall  256  extends forward from the shield  56  to a location past the end  122  of the dielectric  65 . The gaseous waveguide wall  256  can define an internal waveguide channel  257  that extends forward from the dielectric  65 . The gaseous waveguide wall  256  can define the transition profile described above with respect to the gaseous waveguide wall  127 . Alternatively, the inner surface of the gaseous waveguide wall  256  that defines the internal waveguide channel  257  can extend along the longitudinal direction L. As described above, the internal waveguide channel  257  can have the elongate shape in cross-section. 
     The ferrule  254  can further define a radially outer seat surface  258  of a seat  260  that is monolithic with the ferrule  254 . The seat  260  can further define a shoulder that defines a rear stop surface  262 . The stop surface  262  can face the forward direction. The waveguide interconnect member  250  can further define a slider  264  that is movable along the longitudinal direction L between an engaged position and a disengaged position. As described above, the slider  264  includes an abutment wall  256  and a projection or collar  266  that extends rearward from the abutment wall  256 . While reference is made below to the collar  266 , it is appreciated that the projection can assume any suitable alternative configuration as desired. Thus, description of the collar  266  can apply with equal force and effect to the projection, unless otherwise indicated. The collar  266  can be configured to abut the rear stop surface  262  when the slider  264  is at its rearward-most position. Thus, the slider  264  can translate in the rearward direction until a rearward-facing surface of the collar  266  abuts the rear stop surface  262 . 
     The waveguide interconnect member  250  can further include a biasing member  286  that biases the slider  264  in the forward direction. In particular, the biasing member  286  can be configured as a coil spring, an elastomer, or any suitable alternative member configured to apply a biasing force to the slider  264  that urges the slider  264  to translate in the forward direction. The biasing member  268  can extend in a radial gap between the collar  266  and the radially outer surface  259  of the gaseous waveguide wall  256 . The biasing member  264  can extend in the forward direction from the seat  260  to the slider  264 . In one example, the waveguide interconnect member  250  can include a pair of biasing members  286 . The biasing members  286  can be radially opposite each other. Alternatively, as illustrated at  FIG. 17 , the biasing member  286  can be an annular biasing member that surrounds the dielectric waveguide  120 . 
     The waveguide interconnect member  250  can define a variable sized gap  270  (see  FIG. 16D ) between the slider  264  and the gaseous waveguide wall  256 . In particular, the slider  264  defines a first retention surface  272 , and the gaseous waveguide wall  256  defines a second retention surface  274 . The variable sized gap  270  can extend from the first retention surface  272  to the second retention surface  274 . Thus, it should be appreciated that the first retention surface  274  can partially define the variable sized retention gap  210 . The first retention surface  272  can flare in the radially outward direction as it extends in the forward direction. The first retention surface  272  can be defined by the abutment wall  256 . The second retention surface  274  can flare in the radially outward direction as it extends in the forward direction. The radially outer surface  259  of the gaseous waveguide wall  256  and the first and second retention surfaces  272  and  274  cooperate so as to define a pocket  276  (see  FIG. 16D ). 
     The waveguide interconnect member  250  can further include a latch  280  that is movable from a latched position to an unlatched position. The latch  280  can be configured as a cylindrical pin or any suitably alternatively shaped latch  280 . During operation, when the slider translates in the forward direction to the engaged position, the slider  264  correspondingly causes the latch  280  to iterate to the latched position. When the slider  264  translates from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the slider  264  causes the latch  280  to iterate from the latched position to the unlatched position. The latch  280  is configured to interfere with the complementary interconnect member  252  when the latch  280  is in the latched position, thereby preventing separation of the complementary interconnect member  252  from the waveguide cable assembly  138 . Thus, the waveguide cable assembly  138  is secured to the complementary interconnect member  252  when the latch  280  is in the latched position. When the latch  280  moves to the unlatched position, the interference is removed, thereby allowing the waveguide cable assembly  138  to unmate and separate from the complementary interconnect member  252 . 
     The slider  264  can further define a push surface  278  that faces the rearward direction and can flare radially outward as it extends in the rearward direction. The push surface  278  can be spaced forward from the first retention surface  272 . Further, the push surface  278  can be disposed forward of the pocket  276 . The latch  280  can be captured between the first retention surface  272  and the push surface  278 , such that translation of the latch  280  in the forward direction causes the first retention surface  272  to apply a force to the latch  280  that urges the latch  280  to move in the forward direction, and translation of the latch in the rearward direction causes the push surface  278  to apply a force to the latch  280  that urges the latch  280  to move in the rearward direction. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16D  in particular, the gaseous waveguide wall  256  is inserted into the attachment member channel  178  in the forward direction until a securement finger  275  is moved to a securement position in which movement of the slider  264  to the engaged position secures the waveguide interconnect member  250  to the attachment member  172 . Instead of at least one spring finger, the mating portion  176  of the attachment member  172  can include at least one securement finger  275  that can define a securement surface  282 . The securement surface  282  can flare radially inward as it extends in the rearward direction. As the gaseous waveguide wall  256  is inserted into the attachment member channel  178 , insufficient radial clearance exists for insertion of the latch  280  between the radially outer surface of the securement finger  275  and the inner surface of the mating portion  176  of the attachment member  172 . 
     Once the gaseous waveguide wall  256  has been fully inserted in the attachment member channel  178 , the securement surface  282  is spaced a sufficient distance from the second retention surface  274 . Accordingly, the biasing member  286  biases the slider  264  to translate in the forward direction with respect to the complementary interlock member  252 . Thus, the first retention surface  272  drives the latch  280  in the forward direction with respect to the complementary interconnect member  252 , which thereby causes the latch  280  to ride along the second retention surface  274 . The second retention surface  274  is flared or sloped such that the latch  280  moves radially outward as it travels along the second retention surface  274  in the forward direction until the latch  280  is in the latched position. In particular, the latch  280  interferes with the securement surface  282  and prevents the securement surface from traveling in the forward direction with respect to the waveguide interconnect member  250 . Thus, interference prevents the complementary interconnect member  250  member  252  from becoming unmated and separated from the complementary interconnect member  252 . The force from the biasing member  286  onto the slider  264  urges the slider  264  forward to maintain the latch  280  in the latch position. When the waveguide cable assembly  138  is mated with the complementary interconnect member  252 , the internal channel  257  is aligned with the attachment member channel  178  along the longitudinal direction L, and is also continuous with the attachment member channel  178 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16E , when it is desired to unmate the waveguide cable assembly  138  from the complementary interconnect member  252 , the slider  264  is translated in the rearward direction against the forward biasing force of the biasing member  286 . As the slider  264  translates in the rearward direction, the push surface  278  drives the latch  280  to move rearward along the second retention surface  274 . Because the second retention surface  274  flares radially inward as it extends along the rearward direction, movement of the latch  280  in the rearward direction causes the latch  280  to ride along the second retention surface  274  and into the pocket  276 , Once the latch  280  is in the pocket  276 , the latch  280  is removed from interference with the securement surface  282 . Accordingly, the complementary interconnect member  252  and the waveguide interconnect member  250  can separate from each other, thereby unmating the waveguide cable assembly  138  from the complementary interconnect member  252 . The gaseous waveguide wall  256  is then removed from the attachment member channel  178 . The slider  264  can be gripped so as to pull the slider manually in the rearward direction, or a pull tab can extend from the slider  264  in the manner described above. 
     It is appreciated that both the waveguide interconnect member  250  and the waveguide interconnect member  170  described above is non-threaded, either internally or externally, and does not undergo substantial rotation about the longitudinal axis  125  in order to secure or unsecure the waveguide interconnect member to or from the complementary interconnect member. Further, each of the waveguide interconnect member  250  and the waveguide interconnect member  170  has a smaller external footprint than a WR15 flange of the type described above with respect to  FIG. 9  along three perpendicular directions such as the longitudinal direction L, the lateral direction A, and the transverse direction T. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , the complementary interconnect member  119  can be placed in electrical communication with any suitable complementary electrical device as desired, in the manner described above. In particular, the attachment member defined by the complementary interconnect member  119  can be configured as the right-angle attachment member  232  as described above. The right-angle attachment member can include the securement finger  275  as described above, but can be configured the electrical signals of the waveguide cable assembly  138  along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. For instance, the right-angle attachment member  232  can route the electrical signals along the transverse direction T. 
     The right-angle attachment member  232  can define the right-angle attachment body  234 , and the mating portion  236  that includes the securement surface  282 . Thus, the waveguide interconnect member  250  can be secured and released from the mating portion  236  of the right-angle attachment member  232  as described above with respect to the vertical attachment member  172  of  FIGS. 16A-16E . The internal waveguide channel of the gaseous waveguide can be aligned and continuous with the attachment member channel  178 . Thus, the right-angle attachment member  232  can be placed in electrical communication with the waveguide cable assembly  138 , such that electrical signals can travel between the waveguide cable assembly  138  and the right-angle attachment member  232 . The right-angle attachment body  234  can define a mounting portion  235  that is configured to be mounted to a complementary electrical device. The complementary device can be configured as a substrate in the manner described above or any suitable alternative complementary electrical device. In one example, the complementary electrical device can be configured as an electrical connector  271 . 
     The electrical connector  271  can include a connector housing  273  that supports an electrically conductive antenna  238  that extends through the mounting portion  235  and into the attachment member channel  178  that extends through the right-angle attachment body  234 . Thus, the electrically conductive antennal  238  can receive the electrical signals that travel from the waveguide cable assembly  138  and into the attachment member channel  178 . The antenna  238  is in electrical communication with the right-angle attachment member  232 , which in turn is in electrical communication with the dielectric waveguide assembly  120 . Accordingly, the antennal  128  is in electrical communication with the dielectric waveguide assembly  120 . 
     In another example, the connector housing  273  can be monolithic with the right-angle attachment body  234 , such that the right-angle attachment member  232  includes the antenna  238 . The electrically conductive antenna  238  can mount onto the substrate  218 , and in particular can mount to the first side  219   a  of the substrate  219   a . The substrate  218  can then route the electrical signals as desired. In one examples, a pair of waveguide cable assemblies  138  can be secured to right-angle attachment members that are mounted to a common substrate in the manner described above. The common substrate can route the electrical signals between the two right-angle attachment members so as to place the two waveguide cable assemblies in electrical communication with each other. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 18A-18B , the waveguide cable assembly  138  can include a retention clip  290  that can be made from electrically conductive material or electrically non-conductive material. The retention clip  290  is configured to secure the waveguide cable assembly  138  to the right angle attachment member  232 . The right-angle attachment member  232  includes a right-angle attachment body  234 . The right-angle attachment body  234  can be made from an electrically conductive material. The right-angle attachment member  232  can include an electrically conductive antenna  296  is supported by the right-angle attachment body  234 . The antenna  296  that can attach to the dielectric  65  of the dielectric waveguide  120 . can be surrounded by a dielectric. Alternatively, the right-angle attachment body  234  can be a dielectric material. The clip  290  can secure an annular housing  190  to the waveguide shield  56   b , and can further secure the right-angle attachment body  234 . The right angle attachment body  234  can attach to the dielectric jacket  68 , the waveguide shield  56  and the annular housing  190 . The antenna  296  can terminate at a substrate  218  in the manner described above. Alternatively, the antenna  296  can connect to a mating connector that, in turn, is mated to a complementary electrical device. It should be appreciated that the antenna can be placed in electrical communication with the dielectric waveguide  120  via the right-angle attachment member  232  in the manner described above. 
     Referring to  FIG. 19 , the dielectric waveguide  120  defines first and second ends. The first end of the dielectric waveguide  120  can be attached to a first waveguide interconnect member  170 , and the second end of the of the dielectric waveguide  120  can be attached to a second waveguide interconnect member  170  in the manner described above. The second waveguide interconnect member  170  can thus be removably secured to and unsecured from, selectively, a second complementary waveguide interconnect in the manner described above. Thus, each of the first and second ends can terminate a respective first and second gaseous waveguides  118  in the manner described above. While the waveguide interconnect member at the second end can be configured as the interconnect member  170  described above, the waveguide interconnect member at the second end can alternatively be configured as the interconnect member  250  described above, or any suitable alternative interconnect member as desired. 
     It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the present invention. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variances that fall within the scope of the appended claims.