Spectrum Analyzer
The model N1996A is a compact, high performance spectrum analyzer (CSA) available in 3 and 6 GHz models and designed for use in a wide array of industries. This CSA enables R&D and manufacturing engineers and technicians to make precision RF measurements with speed, ease and confidence. The CSA incorporates a full-featured, general-purpose spectrum analyzer with an internal VSWR bridge and tracking generator. This allows customers to easily and accurately characterize single- and dual-port devices. Price: under $10,000.
Agilent Technologies Inc.,
Palo Alto, CA (800) 829-4444,
www.agilent.com.
RF Connector
The Type N is a medium-sized RF connector used to satisfy larger coaxial cable types. This durable and weatherproof connector operates in a frequency range from DC to 18 GHz and can withstand shock vibration. Applications include: antennas, aerospace, microwave radio, WLAN, PCS, cellular, radar and surge protection.
Christensen Smith Tran (CST),
Sparks, NV (775) 331-4866,
www.cstcable.com.
Rotary Joints
The company’s range of rotary waveguide joints has been expanded with the addition of a series of L-style models that are particularly suitable for outdoor applications such as SATCOM or military-radar systems. As well as offering IP65 environmental protection, the AM-RJL series rotary joints feature a rugged, lightweight aluminum construction, finished in Alochrom satin black epoxy paint. Covering the frequency range 5.8 to 15 GHz, the L-style joints are available in five different waveguide sizes from WR-137 to WR-62 and can be specified with or without mounting flanges.
Link Microtek Ltd.,
Basingstoke, UK
+44 (0) 1256 355771,
www.linkmicrotek.com.
High Efficiency Antenna
The model RP2-54-N is a broadband high efficiency 2' diameter antenna that was designed for use in the point-to-point unlicensed 5 GHz WLAN communications band. This model operates in a frequency range from 5.25 to 5.85 GHz and in the licensed Public Safety band from 4.94 to 4.99 GHz. The reflector is precision spun aluminum. The mount includes azimuth/elevation fine adjustment capability and is designed to attach to a range of mast pipe sizes from 1.9" to 4.5" in diameter.
mWAVE Industries LLC,
Gorham, ME (207) 857-3083,
www.mwavellc.com.
Parabolic Antennas
The SPX-3.5NS series of antennas covers a frequency range of 3.3 to 3.6 GHz or 3.5 to 3.8 GHz. Providing coverage down to 3.3 GHz makes these reliable parabolic dishes usable in numerous international bands including China. The standard SPX-3.5NS antennas now cover 3.3 to 3.6 GHz and can be ordered “tuned” to the 3.5 to 3.8 GHz bands when required. These antennas are available in diameters from 2 to 8 feet and accompany a three-year warranty.
Radio Waves Inc.,
N. Billerica, MA (978) 459-8800,
www.radiowavesinc.com.
Hemi Antenna
This low profile redesigned Hemi antenna offers reliable wide area coverage, both indoors and outdoors by providing good radiation patterns for areas using either circular or linear polarization. These linearly polarized Hemi antennas operate at 800 and 900 MHz. This antenna features the same coverage pattern associated with the standard hemi, but with linear polarization. These “Hemi” antennas are well suited for indoor use, but because of the radome to back plate weather seal, are very well suited for outdoor applications.
Astron Wireless Technologies Inc.,
Sterling, VA
(703) 450-5517,
www.astronwireless.com.
Advanced Positioner Controller
The AL-4806-3C series is a versatile, simple-to-operate positioner controller, offering full control of positioning subsystems in automated antenna measurement systems. It provides fully programmable control of antenna, test and target positioners, and is designed to provide the user with advanced control, while maintaining an intuitive interface for manual operations. Advanced microprocessor architecture assures optimal data throughput for automated data collections. Manual operation is a simple combination of axis selection and a user-adjustable control knob.
Orbit/FR Inc.,
Horsham, PA (215) 674-5100,
www.orbitfr.com.
Parabolic Antenna
The model QRP-T0024Z01 is a broadband prime focus parabolic antenna. This single antenna covers a frequency range from 18 to 40 GHz with 40 dB nominal gain at center frequency. The maximum VSWR is 1.35. The power handling is 10 W for CW mode with a K-connector and 800 W for CW and 5 kW for peak power with a WRD180c24 connection. This antenna is available with gain options ranging from 30 to 55 dB.
QuinStar Technology Inc.,
Torrance, CA (310) 320-1111,
www.quinstar.com.
Components
Absorptive PIN Diode Switch
The model SW2AD-23 is an absorptive SP2T PIN diode switch. This model provides 55 dB of isolation over the frequency range of 0.3 to 18 GHz with 3.5 dB insertion loss and 1.7 VSWR. The TTL driver is internal and is powered by ±5 V. The housing is 1.35" × 1.75" × 0.5" with SMA female connectors at all ports.
Pulsar Microwave Corp.,
Clifton, NJ (973) 779-6262,
www.pulsarmicrowave.com.
Quick Connect Adapters
These Quick Connect adapters provide efficiency and save time in test and measurement applications by allowing for a complete connection in about one turn of the male coupling nut. The new family of adapters that feature Quick Connect include 7/16 DIN male to type N male, 7/16 DIN male to type N female, SMA male to type N female and SMA male to SMA female. The SMA units operate in the DC to 18 GHz range while the 7/16 DIN units operate from DC to 7.5 GHz. All units feature low VSWR.
Aeroflex/Inmet,
Ann Arbor, MI (734) 426-5553,
www.aeroflex-inmet.com.
SP2T Reflective Switch
The model SWN-RAYR-2DR is a single-pole, two-throw, reflective switch module with options HPE2W, HS30NS and LVT25MV. It offers a low insertion loss of 1 dB typical, and an integral TTL driver that is designed for ultra low video transient, high power and operates between 600 to 1300 MHz.
American Microwave Corp.,
Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700,
www.americanmicrowavecorp.com.
Directional Couplers
These directional coupler octave models operate in a 0.5 to 26.5 GHz frequency range. The couplers provide a convenient and accurate means for sampling microwave energy, and are ideally suited for monitoring incident and reflected power. This directional coupler family consists of three-port directional couplers, four-port bi-directional couplers, four-port dual directional couplers, four-port high power directional couplers and four-port directional detectors. All models offer high performance and quick delivery.
Microwave Communications Laboratories Inc.,
Saint Petersburg, FL (727) 344-6254,
www.mcli.com.
E-band Diplexer
The E-band diplexer consists of two waveguide bandpass filters specially designed to pass a relatively wide portion of the spectrum, from 71 to 76 GHz and 81 to 86 GHz. Utilizing the propagation of a specific combination of modes, the diplexer is designed to provide a minimum of 15 dB return loss without any tuning. Waveguide interface flanges are WR-12.
K&L Microwave,
Salisbury, MD (410) 749-2424,
www.klmicrowave.com.
Flexible Cables
The CBL series of rugged, triple-shielded flexible cables is ideal for laboratory and in-field measurement applications requiring low insertion loss from DC to 18 GHz. These cables deliver high performance levels while withstanding 20,000 flexures without any failures. This series is available from stock in a variety of lengths and male connector types, including SMA to SMA, SMA to type N and type N to type N connectors. Price: $69.95 each (1–9). Delivery: available from stock.
Mini-Circuits,
Brooklyn, NY (718) 934-4500,
www.minicircuits.com.
Four-channel Switch Bank
The model 4IFA-7000/10000-SR is a four-channel switch bank with channels at 7, 8, 9 and 10 GHz. The bank features 70 dB stopbands and a VSWR of 1.5. Amplitude matching of ±1 dB was specified for each channel. Size: 2.75 × 1.75 × 0.50 package with SMA female connectors.
Lorch Microwave,
Salisbury, MD (410) 860-5100,
www.lorch.com.
Threshold Detector/Coupler/Switch
The model TDCS-4T-10F-HP is an integrated threshold detector, 17 dB coupler and SPDT PIN diode switch. This device operates from 9 to 10.5 GHz (other frequency ranges are also available), with an insertion loss of 2 dB maximum, VSWR of 1.5 maximum, 2 W average RF input power handling capability and TTL threshold output. The TDCS-4T-10F-HP is designed to operate in harsh environments with stability over temperature and frequency. Size: 1.5" × 1.2" × 0.40".
Planar Monolithics Industries,
Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700,
www.planarmonolithics.com.
Protective Dust Caps
The continuing development of the QN snap-on connectors product range sees the addition of QN protective dust caps in both male and female versions. Both feature an attachment cord to prevent the cap from being lost when not in use. The QN range is available with 50 W impedance for frequency ranges up to 11 GHz. Its snap-on coupling mechanism provides a fast, reliable, user friendly, consistent mate.
Radiall, Rosny Sous Bois,
Paris, France +33 1 49 35 35 35,
www.radiall.com.
Compact Diplexer
The model 2DP-900/1750-00 is a compact diplexer with minimum passbands of DC to 900 MHz and 1750 to 2300 MHz. Insertion loss measures 0.5 dB in the low band and 0.7 dB in the high band with passband VSWR less than 1.5 across the entire unit. Channel-to-channel isolation is greater than 50 dB, and the return loss is greater than 15 dB in each band.
Reactel Inc.,
Gaithersburg, MD (301) 519-3660,
www.reactel.com.
High Power Circulators/Isolators
The SMC series of surface-mount coplanar circulators and isolators operates from 800 to 2500 MHz. These circulators are designed for high power applications and are distinguished by good high power performance in congested multi-carrier environments. Models are available in typical bandwidths of 10 to 15 percent with isolation > 22 dB and insertion loss < 0.35 dB. Size: 1" square.
Renaissance Electronics Corp.,
Harvard, MA (978) 772-7774,
www.rec-usa.com.
No-solder Connector
The model EZ-200-NMH-D (3190-1918) is an improved no-solder EZ crimp connector for LMR-200 and LMR-200-LLPL. This model features a combination hex/knurl coupling nut that allows tightening by hand or with a wrench, and tri-metal plating instead of silver that eliminates tarnishing while providing good electrical performance. This model offers a ridged landing area on the aft end for better grip and sealing of the heat shrink boot to provide improved strain relief and weather sealing, and good VSWR performance to 8 GHz on both LMR-200 and LMR-200-LLPL. Price: $11.80.
Times Microwave Systems,
Wallingford, CT (203) 949-8400,
www.timesmicrowave.com.
Amplifiers
High Power Amplifier
The model 50AMP10M100-40-36 is a broadband, high power amplifier that operates in a frequency range from 10 to 100 MHz and is designed for defense, wireless and commercial radio applications. This model offers a gain of 40 dB minimum and flatness better than ±2 dB that allows a minimum output power at one dB compression of 36 dBm. This amplifier is supplied with SMA(f) input and output connectors and draws less than 1.2A in DC current from a +15 V supply. Size: < 2.5" × 8" × 1.2". Delivery: available from stock.
Amplical Corp.,
Verona, NJ (201) 919-2088,
www.amplical.com.
Ku-band Power Amplifiers
The model MPC4-1220 is a Ku-band power amplifier that offers a multitude of configurations to meet specific needs. The models are defined by the communication bands, have RF power levels of 45, 55 or 65 W, with optional features 04 (L-band block upconverter) and 09 (28 or 48 V DC power supply). This series is ideal for SATCOM systems serving military and commercial airborne and mobile platforms. Key features include: discrete mute control, 115/230 V AC power supply, monitor and control processor, forward and reverse power monitor, and outdoor enclosure with forced air. Size: 10.3" × 8.98" × 10.27". Weight: 23.2 lbs.
Sophia Wireless Inc.,
Chantilly, VA (703) 961-9573,
www.sophiawireless.com.
Modular Amplifiers
The model C1501 and model C1502 are modular amplifiers designed for communications applications such as SATCOM terminals and terrestrial radios. Both models span the 11 to 15 GHz band. The model C1501 offers a minimum gain of 10 dB while the C1502 offers 20 dB gain. Both models offer a typical power output (P1dB) at +11 dBm and typical noise figure of 4 dB. These amplifiers operate from 5 V DC. The C1501 draws a typical 80 mA and the C1502 will draw 150 mA. Price: C1501 – $275.00 and C1502 – $350.00 (100). Delivery: stock to eight weeks.
EPX Microwave Inc.,
San Carlos, CA (408) 313-4913,
www.epxmicrowave.com.
Solid-state Power Amplifier
The S51000 C-band series of solid-state power amplifier modules range from 12 to 200 W of output power. This series features good performance, reliability and cost effectiveness in a slim and compact package.
Locus Microwave Inc.,
State College, PA (814) 861-3200,
www.locusmicrowave.com.
Low Noise Amplifier
The model HMC374 is a surface-mount PHEMT MMIC low noise amplifier (LNA) for fixed wireless, CATV, microwave radio and cellular/3G base station and repeater applications from 0.3 to 3 GHz. This high dynamic range PHEMT MMIC LNA delivers 1.5 dB noise figure, +37 dBm output IP3 and 15 dB small-signal gain at 900 MHz. The +23 dBm saturated output power and the high output intercept point makes the HMC374 also suited for driving the RF port of a high IP3 mixer, and for transmitter pre-driver applications.
Hittite Microwave Corp.,
Chelmsford, MA (978) 250-3343,
www.hittite.com.
E-band Modules
The model SCM-74056020-01 and model SCM-84056020-01 are engineering prototype modules developed for E-band communication link system demonstration. These two modules form a complete link to cover the entire 71 to 76 GHz and 81 to 86 GHz frequency spectrum. The modules implement a high stability free running DRO, active frequency multiplier, bandpass filter, power divider, sub-harmonically pumped mixer and upconverter, low noise amplifier and power amplifier and T/R diplexer. Size: 7" × 11" × 2.5".
WiseWave Technologies Inc.,
Torrance, CA (310) 539-8882,
www.wisewave-inc.com.
Device
PIN Diode
The model MA4PBL027 is an HMIC silicon beam lead PIN diode designed for a variety of wideband and broadband switching applications. The MA4PBL027 diode is fabricated on epitaxial wafers, which are designed to provide highly repeatable electrical characteristics and low parasitics. This diode is fully passivated with silicon dioxide, silicon nitride and a BCB protective polymer. The MA4PBL027 offers low Ct (30 fF), respectable Rs (2.8 V) and small Ls (0.3 nH). Price: $3.75 (10,000).
M/A-COM Inc.,
Lowell, MA (800) 366-2266,
www.macom.com.
Software
Extraction Tool
The Q3D Extractor™ v7 is the most recent release of the 3D quasi-static electromagnetic parasitic extraction tool. The Q3D Extractor computes 3D RLC/2D RLCG parameters from interconnect structures and automatically generates an equivalent SPICE circuit. This release introduces new features that make it easier and more reliable for engineers to import 3D CAD models and integrated circuit, printed circuit board and package layouts from third-party tools. A new fault-tolerant meshing algorithm has been added to make the meshing process tolerant to anomalies that occur in geometric data from CAD/EDA software programs. The new release also provides automatic and interactive model healing techniques that allow users to detect and repair errors in imported geometry.
Ansoft Corp.,
Pittsburgh, PA (412) 261-3200,
www.ansoft.com.
Sources
Amplified Noise Source
The model NW6G-M is an amplified noise source that features broadband frequency coverage from 10 MHz to 6 GHz. This model is ideal for wireless test applications and covers all major wireless applications. The NW6G-M also features a power out of 0 dBm, flatness of ±2 dB, internal regulation, operates with +15 VDC and draws 200 mA. Size: 4" × 1" × 0.5".
NoiseWave Corp.,
East Hanover, NJ (973) 386-1119,
www.noisewave.com.
Militarized Rubidium Oscillator
The model 8130A is an off-the-shelf militarized rubidium oscillator that provides good overall performance for numerous tactical applications, and excels particularly for systems requiring good phase noise under vibration. The circuit boards of the 8130A are conformal-coated for moisture resistance, and special precautions are taken for improved shock vibration hardening. Key features include: a modern militarized design, 5 and 10 MHz sinewave outputs, a ruggedized high performance Rb physics package and an internal temperature compensation option. Price: $11,500 USD.
Symmetricom Inc.,
San Jose, CA (978) 927-8220,
www.symmttm.com.
Voltage-controlled Oscillator
The model V139ME01 is a voltage-controlled oscillator designed for the specialized mobile radio market in the VHF band. This oscillator covers 118 to 160 MHz within 1 to 16 VDC, which greatly reduces the tuning sensitivity. This model exhibits good single-sideband spectral purity of –115 dBc/Hz, typically, at 10 kHz from the carrier and is ready for any outdoor application as it is specified to operate over the temperature range of –35° to 85°C. Size: 0.50" × 0.50" × 0.13". Delivery: stock to four weeks.
Z-Communications Inc.,
San Diego, CA (858) 621-2700,
www.zcomm.com.
Subsystem
Frequency Translator
The model T8P-68N-5 is a digitally controlled PIN diode frequency translator that operates from 6 to 18 GHz. This frequency translator offers 25 dB carrier suppression and 20 dB sideband suppression at a 500 kHz translation rate with 3 dB amplitude variation across the entire band. With less than 12 dB insertion loss and 1.9 VSWR, this frequency translator can handle +15 dBm CW, 1 W maximum RF input power. Size: 3" × 3" × 1".
G.T. Microwave Inc.,
Randolph, NJ (973) 361-5700,
www.gtmicrowave.com.
System
Multicoupler Switch System
This multicoupler switch system is designed to operate in the frequency range of 0.1 to 3000 MHz in three bands, having as many at 12 inputs and eight or more outputs. Any input can be switched to any or all of the outputs as selected by the host controller through an RS-232 or an RS-422 interface. The unit has an overall gain of 0 ±3 dB and provides good output-to-output and output-to-input isolation. The unit’s high dynamic range provides optimum performance over a wide range of input signal levels.
Mu-Del Electronics Inc.,
Manassas, VA (703) 368-8900,
www.mu-del.com.
Test Equipment
WLAN Test Set
The MT8860B Wireless LAN test set is designed for radio layer measurements on all 802.11b/g devices. This integrated test set simulates a WLAN Access Point for testing devices under normal operating conditions, eliminating the need for special test mode software. When integrated into a production test system, the MT8860B measures all the key radio parameters including transmitter power, spectral mask and EVM as well as receiver sensitivity. A single test connection is all that is required to perform all measurements, which significantly reduces test times.
Anritsu Ltd., Luton,
Bedfordshire, UK +44 (0)1582 433 433,
www.anritsu.com.
Transient Generator System
This TGAR transient generator system is capable of generating custom pulses and can handle a large percentage of existing specs. The complete TGAR system (consisting of the TG6083BU, TG6083PS, TG6083AS and TG6000LD) meets the requirements of ISO 7637-2 (2004) and SAE J1113-11. Features include: base current rating of 83 amps that covers 95 percent of DUT requirements, built-in oscilloscope that allows for easy pulse verification and self-calibration, pulse verification data is included in the DUT test report and LabView-based software, and built-in arbitrary waveform generators allow users to create custom waveforms.
AR Worldwide • RF/Microwave Instrumentation,
Souderton, PA (215) 723-8181,
www.ar-worldwide.com.