Times Microwave Systems introduced its new Clarity™ 110 test cable to accommodate the higher frequencies required for advanced testing of automotive radar, 5G, 6G and beyond. The Clarity 110 test cable is ultra-stable through 110 GHz with exceptionally low attenuation for critical mmWave high frequency measurements, where phase stability and repeatability are critical. It is also ideal for applications including semiconductor testing and on-wafer probing.
Advanced technologies have introduced new testing challenges for repeatability, reliability and reproducibility. For example, networks using microwave backhaul, fronthaul and fixed wireless are predicted to exceed 100 GHz. The increasing use of automotive radar systems to power safety-critical applications such as advanced driver-assistance systems requires the ability to test the fundamental frequencies of radar systems and how they behave at their harmonics, which necessitates measurements up to 110 GHz.
Clarity 110 is the newest addition to Times Microwave Systems’ proven Clarity Series, known for its industry-leading performance and unparalleled value. The test cable features steel torque, crush and overbend protection with abrasion resistance—without compromising flexibility. The design includes an ergonomic, stainless steel protective barrel strain relief and a hex coupling nut.
The new test lead offers a repeatable, low insertion loss cable that functions throughout the desired frequency range to ensure a high-fidelity measurement. Tight phase control is an additional parameter for optimizing system performance in advanced wireless technologies such as 5G and 6G smart antennas. Clarity 110 is a phase-stable solution designed with a PTFE dielectric and a helically wound metalized interlayer to maintain a flexible and amplitude-stable test assembly.
Test systems are also connected and disconnected often. With high frequencies, this often requires recalibration every time a module or cable moves. Clarity 110 was designed with a long flex life to withstand extensive handling. It can be easily moved around on a test bench, either in R&D or in a production environment, to reduce the amount of recalibration required. 1.0 mm connectors (male and female) also come standard with the Clarity 110, designed to handle frequencies to 110 GHz and the rigors of testing.