Test and measurement firm Ranatec has developed a “plug-and-play” solid-state switch box for high volume test and measurement systems requiring consistent RF performance and long lifetime, such as production testing of mobile handsets and base stations, MIMO and built-in-test.
The RF2018B covers DC to 6 GHz; has 12, SP4T switch modules; and is packaged in an easy to install rack-mountable box. Features of the switch box are
- DC to 6 GHz frequency range.
- SP4T latching, terminated switches.
- <100 µs switching time.
- Insertion loss <1.9 dB to 3 GHz.
- 63 dBm IP3.
- +30 dBm maximum input power.
- 5 to 45 VDC supply voltage.
- High repeatability.
- Ultra-long lifetime.
The switches are controlled remotely via a web-interface or textual (SCPI-like) API. The box can be controlled from any computer in the network via TCP/IP sockets or via its internal web server using a very simple communication protocol, independent of the operating system or programming language.
”There is a clear trend of moving towards IoT, meaning that more and more products are connected. This leads to an increased demand of wireless testing, including RF switching. The new RF2018B solid state switch box automates the testing process during development and manufacturing of semiconductors and wireless devices, streamlining manufacturers product cycle,” said Magnus Killian, CEO at Ranatec.
”Key customers requested this innovation to further streamline their testing processes. Based on our flexible technology platform, we were able to respond and quickly adapt to their needs,” Killian said.
The new switch box will be sold globally by Ranatec and Ranatec partners.
Ranatec works with global wireless device vendors and test houses to develop benchmark, addressing the evolving demands of test environments.