Bayonet mating is used where a quick mating and unmating action is desired, and accidental disconnection by pulling on the cable must be prevented.

The plug coupling nut is pushed forward with the slots engaging the studs on the jack, rotated, and released. When the coupling nut is released, an internal spring pulls it backward to locate the studs in the circular relief at the bottom of the slots, preventing accidental unmating.

Most bayonet-mating types have two studs. For applications that require anti-rock characteristics, many types are alternately available with three- or four-stud interfaces.