"RP-SMA" stands for "Reverse-Polarity Sub-Minature type A". [RPSMAConnector RP-SMA Connectors] are the cousins of [SMAConnector SMA-Connectors], and provide identical performance.

Reverse-Polarity connectors differ only by the gender of their center contact. For example, a male plug has a female center contact.

Reverse-Polarity connectors are commonly used on [802.11] gear due to America's [FCC] requirements (Part 15.203) where by such equipment needs non-standard connectors. Although less common, other modified [SMAConnector SMA] solutions to satisfy the [FCC] requirements are to either use "[RTSMAConnector reverse-thread]" or "[ShroudedSMAConnector shrouded]" connectors.