MikroTik hAP ax³ — RP-SMA antennas won't screw in all the way (2mm gap). Is this normal?

RouterOS Beginner Basics
1

Hi everyone! I just unboxed my new hAP ax³ and started screwing on the stock antennas.

I ran into an issue: the antenna nuts don't go all the way down to the router's chassis. There is a gap of about 2 mm (around two thread turns) left. I can't turn them any further by hand and I'm afraid to apply force. However, the antennas feel tight and do not wobble.

I haven't powered on the router yet. I'm worried about frying the radio module if this gap prevents proper coaxial contact and leaves the circuit open.

Could hAP ax³ owners or MikroTik experts please let me know:

  1. Is this a normal design choice for this model, or is it a defect?

  2. Is it safe to power on the device as it is?

2

It's normal for all SMA connectors. Don't force it. Even if you use a tool, the target should be "finger tight".

3

It is by design.
This way it is the interior of the antenna connector that goes flat against the top of the router plug when you tighten it.

If you think about it, if the nut would touch the router chassis, you would never know if the connector is flat against the plug or if there is a gap inside the connection.