Microwave Journal
www.microwavejournal.com/articles/17150-equalized-cable-runs

Equalized Cable Runs

March 15, 2012

Equalized Cable Runs

The Cobham Cable Products group has integrated an adjustable equalizer with a variable attenuator module into an ETNC jack/ETNC jack bulkhead adapter for incorporation into cable runs. The result is that cable runs of different cable sizes and length have matched, constant insertion loss over broad frequency ranges. The design has been qualified for military airborne applications aboard jet aircraft.

Now, with the equalizer/attenuator adapter connected in series, cable runs can have the same amplitude response for short runs to the aircraft nose, moderate length runs to the aircraft wings or long runs to the aircraft tail.

The equalizer/attenuator module can be integrated into adapters of other configurations or interfaces, (Type N or SMA, for example). It can also be integrated directly into connectors on the assembly. No external power source is required.  Cobham optimizes the designs to fit the application.

Specifications for Equalizer Adapter only

  • Frequency Range: from < 0.5 to > 18 GHz
  • VSWR: 2.0:1 maximum
  • Insertion Loss: Can correct differences greater than 25 dB over the specified frequency band
  • Power: Receive levels
  • Temperature Range: -40° to +70°C
  • Altitude: up 70,000 ft
  • Vibration: > 20 G RMS

Specifications for Typical Long Equalized Cable Run (> 100 feet in 4 or 5 segments)

  • Frequency Range: from < 0.5 to > 18 GHz
  • VSWR: 2:1
  • Insertion Loss: Equalized to IL at highest frequency
  • IL Flatness: ± 4 dB maximum (less for shorter runs)

Cobham Antenna Systems,
Exeter, NH
(603) 775-5200,
www.cobham.com.