COMPONENTS

 

Switchable Filter Module

The model FA4489 switchable filter module is capable of selecting one of nine channels with a TTL control signal. The device is used typically as a front-end preselector in a high dynamic range receiver. The module offers a proprietary switching matrix, low intermodulation distortion (IMD), fast switching speeds, low signal loss and small size. Both military and commercial configurations are available.

Aeroflex, Plainview, NY (516) 694-6700.

Noise-immune SP8T Switch

The model SW-2000-8AT-200 absorptive SP8T PIN diode switch is designed to maintain low harmonic RF contents and high isolation in noisy environments. The switch employs opto-isolators and voltage transient suppressors, and operates from 250 to 500 MHz. Features include an insertion loss of 0.5 dB (max), isolation of 80 dB (min), second harmonic of –80 dBc (max), third harmonic of –110 dBc at +10 dBm RF and RF leakage > 80 dBc at 500 MHz. Size: 4.5" x 3" x 0.75".

American Microwave Corp., Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700.

Surface-mount Power Inductors

The DS5022 series surface-mount power inductors are magnetically shielded and available in 13 values with inductance ratings from 10 to 1000 mH. The 10 mH inductor has a saturation current rating of 8 A and an RMS current rating of 3.9 A. Low DC resistance (as low as 0.035 W) keeps power losses to a minimum. The surface-mount design features a flat top for reliable pick-and-place operations. The terminals wrap around the end of the base to ensure a sound solder fillet and to simplify inspection. The inductors’ temperature range is –20° to +85°C. Price: 90¢ (10,000). Delivery: stock.

Coilcraft, Cary, IL (847) 639-6400.

Tip and Ring Ceramic Chip Capacitors

These tip and ring ceramic chip capacitors are designed to replace larger through-hole film capacitors. The devices fulfill typical telecom tip and ring requirements of off-hook DC voltage blocking while permitting the AC ring signal to pass. A 250 V DC rating ensures compatibility with most telecom interface standards. Lower electron spin resonance provides better frequency response and improved filtering characteristics. The units are offered in both X7R and Z5U dielectrics in values including up to 0.47 mF in 1812 size, 0.82 mF in 1825 size and 1.5 mF in 2225 size. Price: 25¢ to $1.25 (10,000). Delivery: stock to 10 weeks.

Johanson Dielectrics Inc.,Sylmar, CA (818) 634-9800.

GPS Notch Filter

The model 4DRN10-1575/U100-N/N ceramic Global Positioning System (GPS) notch filter operates at 1575 MHz and has a four-section response. The 1 dB bandwidth is < 100 MHz and the 40 dB bandwidth is > 20 MHz. The custom package includes N connectors.

K&L Microwave Inc., Salisbury, MD (410) 749-2424.

Broadband Mechanical Phase Shifter

The model PV-18 broadband mechanical phase shifter changes the phase of a microwave signal from 1 to 18 GHz. The unit allows phase to be adjustable continuously with a 12- to 15-turn screw. Phase shift is 25° (typ) at the maximum adjustment of 1 GHz and 450° at 18 GHz. Insertion loss is typically 1 dB from 1 to 8 GHz and 1.5 dB at 18 GHz. SWR is 1.5 (max) from 1 to 8 GHz and 1.9 at 18 GHz. The unit is equipped with SMA connectors and other types are available on request.

KDI/triangle Corp., Whippany, NJ (201) 887-8100.

DC - 26.5 GHz Connector

The model C369771314 connector operates from DC to 26.5 GHz with low SWR of 1.15 (max). The connector also features an insertion loss of 0.015 x F^0.5 (F in gigahertz), RF leakage of –100 dB (max) and insulation resistance of 5000 megohms (min). The connector comprises a stainless steel nut and shell, copper beryllium nut ring, silicon rubber gasket, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulator and copper beryllium contact.

Coax Connector Corp., Wilmington, MA (508) 657-0693.

Signal Processing Components

These signal processing components cover frequencies from DC to 26 GHz for use in point-to-point radio and cellular base station applications. Available components include attenuators, couplers, mixers, phase shifters and comparators, power splitters and solid-state switches.

Lorch Microwave, Salisbury, MD (800) 780-2169 or (410) 860-5100.

Precision Test Port Adapters

The models 7909B1 and 7909B2 NMD2.4 female to 3.5 mm precision test port adapters operate from DC to 34 GHz and are designed for use on the HP8510 series test set model HP8517. Users can select a male or female 3.5 mm test port while protecting the NMD2.4 male connector from damage. The model 7909B1 adapts from an NMD2.4 female to an APC3.5 female and the model 7909B2 adapts an NMD2.4 female to an APC3.5 male.

Maury Microwave Corp., Ontario, CA (909) 987-4715.

C-band TVRO Blockband Bandpass Filter

The model 11870DC blockband bandpass filter is installed between the downconverter and receiver in C-band television receive-only (TVRO) systems to remove mild to moderate out-of-band interference. The filter passes 950 to 1450 MHz with a loss of 3 dB (max). Rejection is 20 dB at 850 MHz and 30 dB at 1550 MHz. The unit features a DC passing specification of 500 mA. Impedance is 75 W and connectors are type-F female. Size: 4.5" x 2" x 1.1".

Microwave Filter Company Inc., East Syracuse, NY (800) 448-1666 or (315) 438-4747.

High Gigohm Chip Resistors

These precision chip resistors offer resistance values from 1 to 100 gigohms. The space-saving 0.050" x 0.025" x 0.010" wraparound design makes these ultra-high precision resistors appropriate in applications where space is at a premium. Tolerances are as low as two percent for some values. Terminations can be specified for either solder or epoxy attachment. Resistors are available in bulk package, chip carriers or tape and reel for use with automated insertion equipment.

Mini-Systems Inc., Thick Film Division, North Attleboro, MA (508) 695-0203.

Wideband Splitter/Combiner

The model ZP8PD-2000 eight-way power splitter/combiner is designed for 50 W cellular, personal communications network (PCN) and instrumentation systems operating across the 800 to 2000 MHz frequency band. The unit handles up to 10 W with high 26 dB (typ) isolation, 0.8 dB insertion loss (typ) (above 9 dB) and maximum amplitude unbalance of 0.7 dB. SWR is well matched typically at 1.25 in and 1.10 out. The unit is housed in a metal case with SMA-F connectors. Price: $149.95 each (1–9).

Mini-Circuits, Brooklyn, NY (718) 934-4500.

MESFET PCN Mixer

The model DBF0611HI2 MESFET PCN mixer supports ultra-high dynamic range requirements in the 6 to 11 GHz band. Used as an upconverter, the +35 dBm input third-order intercept (IP3) results in considerable margin for multiple-signal intermodulation degradation. The unit has low RF and LO input SWR, and performance immunity to source and load mismatches. The 2 IF ±LO single-tone second-order level is –58 dBc (typ) at IF and LO input levels of 0 and +25 dBm, respectively. Upconverter conversion loss is typically 7.5 dB at 900 MHz input and 6.9 GHz output frequencies.

MITEQ, Hauppauge, NY (516) 436-7400.

Subminiature Coaxial Connectors

These commercial subminiature coaxial connectors are designed for blind-mate applications, including back-plane and subassembly connections, and to act as links between mother and daughter cards. The units fit both telecom and datacom requirements up to 22 GHz. The connectors are fully compatible with MIL standards and feature a misalignment tolerance for easier blind matings. The units are crimp type on double-braid flexible cables (single braid upon request) and solder type on semirigid cables. The connectors are constructed of brass with nonmagnetic bronze alloy finish and the PCB receptacles are constructed of brass with gold finish.

Radiall, Rosny Sous Bois, Paris, France 01 49 35 35 35.

Silicon Bipolar Transceiver

The model RF2906 fully monolithic RF transceiver is designed for wireless applications operating within the 433 MHz European industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) frequency band. The unit is manufactured using 15 GHz silicon bipolar process technology and includes a monolithic superheterodyne receiver, bi-phase-shift keying transmitter, VCO and dual-modulus prescaler. When operating at 3 V, typical DC power consumption is < 1 mA in the sleep mode, 4.6 mA in the receive mode and 29 mA in the transmit mode. At 3 V, the receiver’s typical cascaded noise figure is 10 dB and the transmitter produces +8.5 dBm (typ) into a 50 W load. Price: approximately $4 (100,000).

RF Micro Devices Inc., Greensboro, NC (910) 664-1233.

SAW Filter

The model SF1063A surface acoustic wave (SAW) filter is designed for use in community antenna television (CATV) infrastructure applications. The unit selects a 459 MHz pilot tone in CATV distribution networks, and features an insertion loss of 9 dB (max) with external LC impedance matching. The 0.5 dB bandwidth is a minimum of 200 kHz and ultimate rejection is typically 50 dB. The filter is packaged in a rugged, seam-welded 9.3 x 7.3 x 2 mm surface-mount package.

RF Monolithics Inc., Dallas, TX (800) 704-6079 or (972) 448-3700.

Narrowband Reject Filter

The model BRF-S-829 narrowband reject filter features a pass band of DC to 819 MHz and 839 to 1750 MHz, SWR of 1.5 (max), insertion loss of 1 dB (max), reject band from 825 to 833 MHz, reject band attenuation of 40 dB (min) and power rating of 25 W.

RLC Electronics Inc., Mount Kisco, NY (914) 241-1334.

EMI Filtered D-subminiature Connectors

These electromagnetic interference (EMI) filtered D-subminiature connectors are intermateable and interchangeable with standard unfiltered versions. Available currently in 9-, 15- and 25-pin and socket arrangements, the connectors are adaptable to any system requiring EMI/RF interference protection. The connectors are designed for telecommunications and industrial manufacturing applications. The units feature a temperature range of –55° to +125°C, voltage rating of 200 V DC, 120 V RMS at 400 Hz and current rating of 7.5 A.

Sabritec, Irvine, CA (714) 250-1244.

W-band SSB Upconverter

The model M1.5-94 single-sideband (SSB) upconverter is designed to operate at any frequency in the W-band. For optimum LO and opposite sideband rejection, the LO frequency should be at least 1.5 GHz away from the RF frequency. LO-to-RF isolation is > 30 dB and opposite sideband rejection is > 40 dB. The 1 dB output compression is 12 dB below LO input power and the saturated output power is +5 dBm.

Spacek Labs Inc., Santa Barbara, CA (805) 564-4404.

Three-way Power Divider/Combiner

The model DMS 347-M-7 three-way power divider/combiner operates from 6 to 18 GHz with an isolation of 20 dB (min). Other features include an insertion loss of 0.7 dB (max), SWR of 1.4 (max), amplitude balance of 0.4 dB (max), phase balance of 4° (max), power handling of 23 dBm (max) and an operating temperature range of –54° to +85°C. Size: 1.5" x 1.05" x 0.26" with SMA-F connectors.

Technical Research and Manufacturing Inc. (TRM), Bedford, NH (603) 627-6000.

GSM 900 MHz Filters

These receiver and power transmitter filters or duplexers offer a bandwidth up to 35 MHz with a frequency separation of 45 MHz for Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) applications. The units feature a small size of 180 x 90 x 27 mm, low losses < 1.5 dB, high attenuation of more than 60 dB at 10 MHz of the bandwidth and more than 100 W input power.

Tekelec Temex, Les Ulis Cedex, France (33 1) 69 82 20 00.

High Dynamic Range Mixers

The model MR128 high dynamic range mixers offer typical two-tone IP3s of 28 to 30 dBm with an LO drive of 22 dBm. The frequency range for the RF and LO ports is 4 to 20 GHz with an IF range of 10 to 5000 MHz. Typical midband conversion loss is 5.5 dB. Isolation for the LO to RF and LO to IF are 30 and 25 dB, respectively. The mixers are packaged in an 0.8" x 0.59" x 0.19" hermetic module and can be inserted in other package styles including surface mount. A complete single-tone intermodulation table is available.

Sage Active Microwave, Hollis, NH (603) 598-6900.

High Power RF Coaxial Cable Assemblies

These high power RF coaxial cable assemblies feature RG-217, RG-218, RG-393 and other custom-manufactured high power cables. Rated at 50 W from DC to 7.5 GHz, the assemblies can incorporate any combination of 7-16, LC/LT, HN, SQ, SC and other connectors in straight and right-angle designs. The connectors can be produced in any length from brass bodies with silver- or gold-plated brass, phosphor bronze or BeCu center conductors and other materials with insulations, gaskets and finishes to military and customer specifications.

Tru-Connector Corp., Peabody, MA (508) 532-0775.

High Power Fixed Attenuator

The model HFP-525 high power fixed attenuator is available with N- or SMA-type connectors. The unit is a 25 W unidirectional, convection air-cooled fixed pad. Other features include available attenuations from 3 to 40 dB at DC to 6 GHz.

Trilithic Inc., Indianapolis, IN (800) 344-2412 or (317) 895-3600.

Solid-dielectric Trimmer Capacitors

These miniature, solid-dielectric A1 series trimmer capacitors incorporate an 8 pF maximum value with two ranges, including 0.45 to 4 pF and 0.50 to 8 pF. Seven full turns of tuning offer high resolution. The solid-dielectric design provides linear tuning with no chance of internal shorting or microphonics. The capacitors feature positive stops at both minimum and maximum, and measure 0.155" (diam) x 0.4". Q is more than 2000 at 100 MHz. Six standard lead configurations are available including surface mount. Prices: $3.15 (4 pF model) and $3.47 (8 pF model) (100), and $1.70 (4 pF model) and $1.87 (8 pF model) (50,000). Delivery is from stock for up to 50 pieces.

Voltronics Corp., Denville, NJ (201) 586-8585.

Medium-power Coaxial Termination

The model 1443 medium-power coaxial termination incorporates a nominal impedance of 50 W and operates from DC to 18 GHz. The unit’s power rating is 5 W (avg) at 25°C ambient temperature and 0.5 W at 125°C. The termination features a maximum SWR of 1.2 and temperature range of –55° to +125°C.

Weinschel Corp., Frederick, MD (800) 638-2048 or (301) 831-4701.

High Q RF Inductors

The WCM 202 series high Q RF inductors are designed for resonant circuit applications requiring high Qs. Standard inductance tolerance is ±5 percent with tighter tolerances available upon request. The surface-mount package assures mechanical stability, has good lead coplanarity and is suitable for automatic pick-and-place equipment. Samples and custom designs are available.

West Coast Magnetics, Livermore, CA (510) 373-7711.


ANTENNAS

 

Directional Yagi Antenna

The model PC806N directional yagi antenna receives and transmits in the 806 to 866 MHz frequency band. The completely waterproof construction is achieved by enclosing the feed system in a potted polyvinyl chloride radome. The pigtail feed withstands a 50 lb pull, ensuring reliability. Adjustments are not required due to the antenna’s moveable components. All hardware is stainless steel to promote long life. The elements are welded to the boom to enhance electrical performance and eliminate electrical noise. The antenna provides a minimum of 8.5 dBd gain with a nominal 65° x 55° half-power beamwidth. SWR is < 1.5 on 50 W impedances. The antenna mount consists of two large stainless steel U-bolts. Size: 24.75" long. Weight: 1.69 lb.

Cushcraft Corp., Manchester, NH (603) 627-7877.

2.45 GHz Patch Antenna

The Nova-Comm™ 2.45 GHz patch antenna designed for ISM wireless applications features a frequency range from 2.4 to 2.5 GHz, miniature size and low cost. Impedance is 50 W (nom), gain is 3.6 dBi (typ) and return loss is 8 dB (min).

Nearson Inc., Springfield, VA (703) 913-5552.

18" Flat Plate Array Antenna

The model 9659-800 18" flat plate array antenna consists of printed circuit technology and is environmentally sealed within an acrylonitrile-bu-tadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic cover. The unit features a frequency range of 2.1 to 2.3 GHz, left-hand circular polarization, gain of 17.8 dBic (min) at 2.1 GHz and 18.3 dBic (min) at 2.3 GHz, SWR of 1.5, axial ratio of 3 dB and average power of 95 W CW. Weight: 3 lb.

Seavey Engineering Associates Inc., Cohasset, MA (617) 383-9722.


AMPLIFIERS

 

Rack-mounted Octave Bandwidth Power Amplifier

The model ACAM-7953 rack-mounted octave bandwidth power amplifier operates from 500 to 1000 MHz at 10 W (min) output power in a 19" rack. The amplifier also features gain of 27 dB, flatness of ±1 dB, 1 dB gain compression of +40 dBm, IP3 of +50 dBm, SWR of 2 and a power requirement of 110 V AC.

Advanced Control Components Inc., Eatontown, NJ (908) 542-7500.

5 W GaAs FET Amplifier

This GaAs FET amplifier provides 5 W of linear output power over a 600 MHz nominal bandwidth from 12.65 to 13.25 GHz. The amplifier also features gain from 47 to 51 dB; output power of +37 dBm (min), +37.5 dBm (typ); gain flatness of ±2 dB; AC input voltage range from 105 to 130 V AC; operating temperature from +5° to +50°C; and noise figure < 13 dB. Typical AC power consumption is 140 W, input/output return loss is 19 dB (min), power supply noise is –65 dBc (max) and harmonic/spurious output is –50 dBc (max), –65 dBc (max).

Chesapeake Microwave Technologies Inc., Glen Rock, PA (717) 235-1655.

L-band Linear Power Amplifier

The model BHC16171637-200 AB linear power amplifier uses MOSFET technology to achieve good multichannel linearity. The amplifier operates over the 1610 to 1630 MHz frequency range with 200 W of peak envelope power capability. Typical two-tone intermodulation performance is approximately –45 dBc. A noise-reduction feature reduces the broadband noise power output to –160 dBm/Hz (max). Prime power is 115 V AC; single phase is 50/60 Hz. Size: 7" x 19" x 26". The unit’s operating temperature is 0° to +50°C.

Comtech PST Corp., Melville, NY (516) 777-8900.

Integrated Diplexer/LNA

The model LNF-1A545-005 diplexer/low noise amplifier (LNA) operates from 1.525 to 1.560 GHz (min) and 1.6265 to 1.6615 GHz (min) in receive and transmit modes, respectively. The LNA features gain of 33 dB (min), gain flatness of ±1 dB, output power at 1 dB compression point (P1dB) of +10 dBm (min), noise figure of 1.55 (typ) at 25°C, return loss input/output of –14 dB (max) and rejection of 70 dB (min). Transmit-to-receive isolation is 80 dB (typ), 75 dB (min) and receive-to-transmit isolation is 90 dB (min). The amplifier operates from a 12 V, 100 mA power supply at an operating temperature of –45° to +70°C.

ITS Electronics Inc., Concord, Ontario, Canada (905) 660-0405.

PCS/Cellular Power Amplifiers

The GRF3018 series linear power amplifiers are optimized for partial or broadband applications in the PCS and cellular frequency ranges. The medium-power amplifiers provide 10 W of CW power with 40 dB gain and ±0.75 dB flatness. Good linearity of +52 dBm IP3 and wide dynamic range are achieved in the small 6.25" x 2.3" x 0.825" package. The module operates off a single 12 to 15 V DC source. The amplifiers’ input formats cover CW, AM, FM, PM, pulse and all digital modulations.

GTC RF, Inglewood, CA (310) 673-8422.

150 W RF Amplifier

The model 30-1-150-35-A3 150 W high frequency RF amplifier operates from 1 to 30 MHz and is available as a module or rack-mount system. The module features an RF output power of 120 W CW at 24 V DC to 150 W at 28 V DC, gain of 35 dB, input/output impedance of 50 W (nom), DC current/supply of 6 to 7 A/+24/28 V DC, temperature range of –50° to +70°C and SMA female RF connectors. The rack-mount system offers 100 percent mismatch tolerance and modulation capability, forced-air cooling and current meter, thermal shutdown and over-current panel display. Price: $2595 (module) and $5950 (rack-mount system).

LCF Enterprises, Camarillo, CA (805) 388-8454.

12.7 - 13.25 GHz 2 W Amplifier

The model MSH-7107701 high power amplifier with a 2 W saturated output power and an IP3 of –43 dBm operates from 12.7 to 13.25 GHz. The amplifier is designed to be unconditionally stable for use in terrestrial communications applications. The unit can be specified with gain ranging from 8 to 25 dB. The amplifier also features gain variation of ±0.5 dB, noise figure better than 4 dB, input SWR of 1.5 (min) and current of 1.5 A (typ). The unit includes an internal voltage regulator and operates with a single input voltage of +12 V DC while providing overvoltage and reverse-polarity protection. The operating temperature range is –40° to +60°C with extended ranges available.

Microwave Solutions Inc., National City, CA (800) 967-4267.

12.7 - 13.25 GHz 2 W Amplifier

The model MSH-7107701 high power amplifier with a 2 W saturated output power and an IP3 of –43 dBm operates from 12.7 to 13.25 GHz. The amplifier is designed to be unconditionally stable for use in terrestrial communications applications. The unit can be specified with gain ranging from 8 to 25 dB. The amplifier also features gain variation of ±0.5 dB, noise figure better than 4 dB, input SWR of 1.5 (min) and current of 1.5 A (typ). The unit includes an internal voltage regulator and operates with a single input voltage of +12 V DC while providing overvoltage and reverse-polarity protection. The operating temperature range is –40° to +60°C with extended ranges available.

Microwave Solutions Inc., National City, CA (800) 967-4267.

800 - 960 MHz High Dynamic Range Amplifier

The surface-mount technology model QBH-8920 cellular band high dynamic range amplifier operates in the 800 to 960 MHz frequency range. The amplifier features gain of 17.5 dB, SWR input/output of 1.3, IP3 of +45 dBm, P1dB of +29 dBm at 9 V/300 mA, noise figure of 2.5 dB and reverse isolation of 25 dB. RF input and output decoupling are internal to the amplifier.

Q-bit Corp., Palm Bay, FL (800) 226-1772.

Dual 100 W Solid-state Amplifier

The model WPA-184050-50-2 amplifier assembly consists of two high power gain units with separate inputs and outputs each capable of delivering 100 W (50 dBm) of average power. A high power drop-in isolator protects the unit against all loads. The amplifier features a frequency range from 1830 to 1880 MHz, harmonics of –50 dBc, IP3 of 62 dBm, noise figure of 15 dB (max), gain at 25°C of 51 ±1 dB, gain flatness at 25°C of ±0.5 dB full band, SMA-F input connectors and N-type F output connectors. The unit’s operating temperature is from –20° to +50°C. Size: 12" x 6" x 5". Weight: 15 lb.

Wavesat Inc., Montreal, Quebec, Canada (514) 739-9918.

5.85 - 6.65 GHz C-band Solid-state Amplifiers

The 5.85 to 6.65 GHz INTELSAT 8A range is now available for C-band solid-state power amplifiers. The amplifiers’ frequency range is available up to 400 W for indoor enclosures and up to 150 W for outdoor en-closures.

MAXTECH Inc., State College, PA (814) 238-2700.


SOURCES

 

Plastic-molded, Surface-mount Oscillator

This plastic-molded, surface-mount oscillator is available in frequencies from 1 to 69.1 MHz in an industry-standard 0.2" x 0.3" footprint. The oscillator is equipped with a tristate output and tape-and-reel packaging.

M-tron Industries Inc., Yankton, SD (800) 762-8800 or (605) 665-9321.

 

Low Profile, Surface-mount Oscillator

The model T-1084 low profile (0.1" maximum height), surface-mount temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) can be mounted using the standard convection reflow process. The unit is available with several different frequency and VCO options and features a ±2.5 ppm frequency vs. temperature characteristic over a –30° to +70°C temperature range. The TCXO is available from stock.

Oscillatek Inc., Olathe, KS (913) 829-1777.

32 - 120 MHz VCXOs

The models S1510 full-size and S1519 half-size voltage-controlled crystal oscillators (VCXO) are available over a frequency range of 32 to 120 MHz for phase-locked loop (PLL) circuits encountered in telecommunications, local area networks, wireless data, and video compression/decompression and processing applications. The VCXOs have a frequency stability of ±25 or ±50 ppm over all conditions and an absolute pull range of ±25, ±50, ±75 or ±100 ppm. Linearity can be specified at either five or 10 percent. The units are HCMOS compatible and can drive both high speed CMOS and TTL loads. The VCXOs are supplied in standard 14- or eight-pin DIP-compatible, all-metal resistance-welded packages with a commercial temperature range from 0° to +70°C or an industrial temperature range from –40° to +85°C. A tristate version is also available in a full-size six-pin package. Delivery: stock to 12 weeks.

SaRonix, Palo Alto, CA (800) 227-8974 or (415) 856-6900.

1.2 GHz Single-dip VCXOs

The models 430Y5100 and 43Y5200 high frequency, ultra-small VCXOs are available from 38.88 MHz to 1.244 GHz. The units are emitter-coupled logic (ECL) or pseudo-ECL compatible and are packaged in a low profile single dip measuring 0.8" x 0.5" x 0.2". Surface-mount packages are also available. Typical temperature stability is ±20 ppm from 0° to +70°C and deviation is > 100 ppm. Wider deviations and temperatures are available upon request.

Vectron Laboratories Inc. (VLI), Norwalk, CT (203) 853-4433.

ECL-compatible Crystal Oscillators

These half-size ECL-compatible crystal oscillators from the company’s ECL series operate from 20 to 120 MHz, and provide MECL 10 K- and 10 KH-compatible signals for high speed computing, graphic workstations, digital communications and analog/digital conversion. The oscillators feature an operating temperature range from 0° to +70°C, low output impedance and good noise margins. Frequency stability is ±100 ppm. Price: $14.80 each (100 MHz model). Delivery: two to three weeks (ARO).

Standard Crystal Corp., El Monte, CA (800) 423-4578.


TEST EQUIPMENT

 

E-field Generator

The model AT3100 E-field generator offers broad bandwidth, good spatial field uniformity, high power-handling capability and high field intensity for a given power input. The generator is compact and easily supported, and positioned using a tripod. The unit operates from 10 kHz to 100 MHz, handles an input power level of 500 W and produces fields in excess of 200 V/m throughout a zone measuring up to 19" x 14" x 16".

Amplifier Research, Souderton, PA (800) 933-8181.

Cable/Antenna Analyzer

The Site Master™ cable and antenna analyzer measures SWR, return loss, cable insertion loss, RF power and distance to fault on both analog and digital RF transmission lines. The unit operates from 5 to 3300 MHz with the ability to reject external RF interference, making it suitable for high frequency communications, paging, cellular and PCS. The models S112 and S113 cover a frequency range of 5 to 1200 MHz. The analyzer isolates transmission faults using frequency domain reflectometry and uses RF frequencies instead of DC pulses. All models measure return loss from 0 to 54 dB and SWR from 1 to 65. Operating temperature is 0° to +50°C. Size: 8" x 7" x 2.25". Weight: 2.2 lb.

Anritsu Wiltron, Morgan Hill, CA (408) 778-4061.

Thermal Platforms

The T500 series thermal platforms are designed to test electronic components that may be heated and cooled by direct conduction. The platforms are available featuring several usable areas, including 6.75" x 6.75", 6.75" x 13.25", 6.75" x 20", 6.75" x 26.25", 11" x 11" and 11" x 22". Heating is provided by resistance elements and cooling is provided by the expansion of liquid carbon dioxide or liquid nitrogen in a computer-designed channel within the platform. Standard features include precision double-disk grinding of surfaces, hard plating for durability, threaded inserts for fixturing, all light-weight alloy construction, a redundant thermal fail-safe system and an easily accessible coolant supply valve.

Environmental Stress Systems Inc. (ESS), Sonora, CA (209) 588-1993.

Semi-automatic Probe Stations

The REL-6100 series semi-automatic probe stations probe internal ICs for failure analysis and make DC/CV parametric measurements on wafer. The stations feature submicron resolution, precise motion control, eight-inch travel and good stability for probing 200 mm wafers. The stations incorporate the company’s MicroChamber™ for light-tight, noise-protected measurements and ultra-low volume for simple, fast purging and frost-free operation at low temperatures. A fully integrated thermal-guarded chuck allows low noise measurements over a –55° to +200°C temperature range. The stations feature a power-assisted tilt-back microscope and platen lift handle for easy application changeover and needle replacement, programmable motors for precise station movement with manual control via a remote joystick and a multiple-wavelength 20 Hz laser system that performs laser-cutting operations for semiconductor design verification and failure analysis.

Cascade Microtech Inc., Beaverton, OR (503) 626-9231.


SUBSYSTEM

 

Threshold Detectors

The DTH series threshold detectors are DC coupled and combine the functions of RF detection, video amplification and level comparison in one component with TTL- and ECL-compatible output logic. The detectors are useful in twisted pair and coaxial applications. The model DTH2540 operates from 0.5 to 4 GHz with threshold resolution vs. frequency of ±0.4 dB, the model DTH328 operates from 2 to 8 GHz with threshold resolution vs. frequency of ±0.6 dB, the model DTH3818 operates from 8 to 18 GHz with threshold resolution vs. frequency of ±0.7 dB and the model DTH3218 operates from 2 to 18 GHz with threshold resolution vs. frequency of ±1 dB. Operating RF power level for all models is 0 dBm (max) and temperature stability is ±1 dB. Threshold adjustment range is 0 to –20 dBm or –20 to –36 dBm. Size: 2.5" x 1.5" x 0.5".

Microphase Corp., Norwalk, CT (203) 866-8000.


SOFTWARE

 

Low Bit-rate Voice Communications Software

This nested voice codec algorithm for improved low bit-rate voice communications maintains connections in portable telecommunications equipment even when environmental conditions interfere with the direct signal. The software provides receiver terminals that adapt automatically to channel degradation with no reverse-control channel for an efficient use of bandwidth and a responsive transparent adjustment, enhanced link margins that provide at least a three-decibel improvement for greater reliability and improved coverage areas, and a constant transmit bit rate for the channel. The codec combines low bit-rate speech coding with advanced channel and modulation techniques to provide automatic bit-rate reduction under degraded link conditions.

COMSAT Laboratories, Clarksburg, MD (301) 428-4010.


PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

 

Drill Spindles

Two new Drill Motor options are available for the company’s Quick Circuit line of mechanical circuit board prototyping systems. The standard spindle features a brushless DC motor that offers more torque and requires less user maintenance. The optional high speed spindle offers speeds from 5000 to 60,000 rpm, more torque up to 5 N-cm, a vacuum nozzle and more throat depth. The brushless DC spindle is the standard spindle on the Quick Circuit models 5000 and 7000. The high speed spindle is available as an option for an additional $6000. Quick Circuits outfitted with the high speed spindle cost $14,995 (model 5000) and $17,995 (model 7000).

T-Tech Inc., Atlanta, GA (770) 455-0676.


MATERIALS

 

Narrowband/Tuned Microwave Absorber Solutions

The ECCOSORB“ DSF and ECCOSORB DSFU series resonant, narrowband or tuned microwave absorber solutions have been designed for use in naval shipboard applications, antenna nacelles, feeds and struts, microwave modules and to absorb surface currents. The solutions are available in frequencies from 3 to 17 GHz and provide advantages in applications that require resonant, dielectrically loaded absorbers. The solutions are thin, flexible, impervious to water and lightweight, weighing one-half to one pound per square foot. The materials are nonmagnetic, resist oxidation and do not emit hydrogen in hermetically sealed devices. The solutions are available in large standard sizes, measuring 12" x 12", 12" x 24" and 12" x 36". Custom sizes are also available.

Emerson & Cuming Microwave Products Inc., Canton, MA (800) 650-5740.

Laminates

These laminates are available for diverse communication applications, including laminates for low cost, high volume commercial circuitry to laminates for high performance RF/microwave applications. RO4000“ series laminates offer advanced electrical and physical properties comparable to woven-glass PTFE substrates. RO3000™ laminates exhibit good electrical characteristics, including low dissipation for use in DBS receivers, cellular base station power amplifiers and PCS. TMM“ laminates offer stable thermal coefficients of dielectric constant for high predictable design performance for use in antennas. RT/duroid“ laminates include the RT/duroid 5000, 6000 and 6002 product lines for premium performance in radar applications.

Rogers Corp., Chandler, AZ (602) 961-1382.