Murata Electronics North America, an innovator in electronics and the largest global supplier of ceramic passive components, introduced the world's smallest radio frequency (RF) switch connector. The new SWG series allows reliable RF circuit testing throughout the entire product life-cycle yet measures only 2.0mm x 2.0mm x 0.9mm. It also boasts an expanded frequency range currently not found in today's electronics industry. The enhanced connector saves space on the printed circuit board (PCB) making it ideal for numerous portable devices, high frequency measurement equipment and is well suited for WiFi, WiMAX, 4G, Bluetooth, ZigBee and UWB wireless standards.
With its expanded operating frequency range, the SWG connectors are capable of testing RF signals from DC up to 11 GHz. In addition, this series features excellent high frequency characteristics with low insertion loss (01.dB maximum between DC and 3 GHz, 0.2 dB maximum between 3 and 6 GHz, 0.5 dB maximum between 6 and 11 GHz).
"Murata's ability to reduce component size while still providing a high quality, reliable test point, is demonstrated in the advanced SWG switch connector series," said Gerry Hubers, product manager, microwave connectors for Murata Electronics North America. "The miniaturized connector, coupled with its numerous design benefits, makes it a perfect choice for engineers looking to reliably test their advanced wireless products."
Small size, expanded frequency range and low insertion loss are not the only benefits to the SWG connector series. The voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) is 1.5 tops and Murata's proprietary beam spring and double contact mechanism ensures a reliable contact. The new connectors are also durable, with a lifetime of more than 100 mating cycles and are designed to reduce flux penetration.
Murata's new SWG switch connector series is available for $0.35 in sample quantities. Lead time is approximately eight to 10 weeks once production starts in the fall 2009. Murata also offers test probes, manual probes for test and evaluation and production probes for use in automated production lines.