Microwave Journal
www.microwavejournal.com/articles/2851-components

Components

January 1, 2000

Components

Low Loss Single-supply SP2T Switch
The model SWN-218-2A Options 011, GH is an SP2T solid-state switch with a single power supply that operates from 0.5 to 18 GHz (or from 10 MHz to 18 GHz). Insertion loss is < 2.5 dB (typ), SWR is 1.9 and isolation is -70 dB at 0.5 GHz and 28 dB at 18 GHz. (Higher isolation versions are available.) Switching speed is 50 ns, supply voltage is +5 V and current is < 60 mA. (Other supply voltages also are available.) Weight: 1.5 oz (typ). Size: 1.20" x 1.00" x 0.50".
American Microwave Corp., Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700.

 

Eight- and 16-way Power Dividers
The models 4C0804 (eight-way) and 4A1604 (16-way) power dividers for signal distribution and channel combining in multicouplers cover the 0.8 to 1.0 GHz bands with isolation of 20 dB (min) and amplitude balance of < ±0.15 dB. The in-phase, commercial-grade eight-way and 16-way power dividers have insertion losses (max) of 0.45 dB and 0.5 dB and return losses (min) of 20 dB and 25 dB, respectively. Designed with Wilkinson dividers for GSM and AMPS frequencies, each of these small, lightweight components can be flush-mounted to increase space in the system.
Anaren Microwave Inc., East Syracuse, NY (315) 432-8909.

 

Miniature Power Inductors
The DO1813HC series power inductors offer the high current and low inductance values required for high power DC-to-DC applications. The inductors have a rugged, self-leaded construction, and DC resistance is as low as 0.01 W. Inductance values range from 0.56 to 48.1 µH, and current ratings range from 0.72 to 6.0 A (rms). The inductors are less than 5-mm high with a 6.10 mm x 8.89 mm footprint. Price: 60¢ (10,000). Delivery: stock.
Coilcraft, Cary, IL (847) 639-6400.

 

Fully Integrated Connectors
The fully integrated RingFlare™ OnePiece™ connectors for HELIAX® foam dielectric coaxial cable feature factory-preset captivated inner contact pins for guaranteed pin depth without verification or adjustment. A fully weatherproof seal is achieved though the connectors’ prelubricated integral O-ring-to-cable seal that is positioned on the corrugated copper outer conductor of the coaxial cable. The easy-to-install connectors are best suited for PCS, GSM, wireless local loop, cellular or other wireless applications and are compliant with MIL, IEC and DIN specifications and qualifications.
Andrew Corp., Orland Park, IL (800) 255-1479.

 

Circulator/Bandpass Filter
The model BTL320 integrated circulator/bandpass filter assembly is a contiguous diplexer subassembly that isolates the transmitter from the receiver while providing more than 60 dB of attenuation to five-times the passband frequency. Insertion loss is 1.0 dB (max) and 0.7 dB (typ) in the passband through the circulator and filter sections. All of these features are housed in a compact, surface-mount package supplied with a cable for direct antenna attachment.
Channel Microwave Corp., Camarillo, CA (805) 482-7280.

 

Sampling Remote Terminations
The 13-5000 series sampling remote terminations feature integral cable inputs and are specifically designed for applications where a high power termination is required to be remotely located and a low level signal sample is required for detection. Operating over the 1805 to 1880 MHz frequency band, the terminations offer an SWR that is not achievable in high power, high value attenuators and a sampling attenuation of ±0.5 dB from 30 to 40 dB. Average power handling is 200 W CW and operating temperature range is -55° to +150°C. The terminations decrease the number of interconnections in a system at a reduced cost over a discrete cable and termination approach.
Florida RF Labs Inc., Stuart, FL (800) 544-5594 or (561) 286-9300.

 

Low Cost Chip Attenuators
The TS0400 series low cost chip attenuators operate in the DC to 2.5 GHz frequency range. Input power is rated at 1 W at 85°C, attenuation accuracy is ±0.3 dB and SWR is 1.25. The attenuators are available in values of 1, 2, 3, 6, 10 and 20 dB on an environmentally safe, alumina, planar chip.
EMC Technology LLC, Cherry Hill, NJ (856) 429-7800.

 

1 - 18 GHz Quintuplexer
The model 5SM-2/12G-10 quintuplexer operates over the 1 to 18 GHz frequency range. Passbands are 1 to 2, 2 to 4, 4 to 8, 8 to 12 and 12 to 18 GHz and crossovers are at 2, 4, 8 and 12 GHz. Insertion loss is £ 1.0 dB and SWR is 2.0. Rejection/isolation is 55 dB at crossovers of ±15 percent and DC to 0.7 GHz. SMA female connectors also are included.
ES Microwave LLC, Gaithersburg, MD (301) 519-9407.

 

High Reliability Latching Switches
The 421 series high reliability latching switches for Ku-band applications use break-before-make contacts and can be used to route signals from three inputs to two selected outputs or from two inputs to two of the three possible outputs. Insertion loss is 0.4 dB (max), SWR is 1.2 (max), isolation is 70 dB (min) and operating voltage is 28 V DC. The switches are well suited for low power redundancy switching where low insertion loss, exceptional repeatability and good isolation are essential. SMA female connectors also are included.
Dow-Key Microwave Corp., Ventura, CA (805) 650-0260.

 

Digital Attenuator with Integral ASIC Driver
The model AT65-0413 four-bit, 15 dB GaAs MMIC digital attentuator with an integral application-specific IC (ASIC) driver is well suited for products that require high attenuation accuracy, very low power consumption and low intermodulation distortion. Typical applications for the digital attenuator include dynamic range setting in precision receiver circuits and other gain and leveling control circuits for infrastructure applications. Housed in a low cost, small outline integrated circuit (SOIC-16) surface-mount plastic package, the attenuator also features an integral TTL- and CMOS- ASIC driver, high third-order input and fast switching speed. Price: $10 (1000).
M/A-COM, a division of AMP Inc., Lowell, MA (800) 366-2266.

 

4 - 26 GHz YIG Filters
These state-of-the-art permanent magnet filters cover the 4 to 26 GHz frequency range and are designed to meet the most critical specifications for switching speed and absolute stability. The filters feature faster tuning speed, low power consumption, small mechanical packages, improved frequency accuracy, reduced phase noise and low magnetic susceptibility. The company also offers analog and digital drivers.
Filtronic Solid State, Ferretec Products, Santa Clara, CA (408) 988-1845.

 

Micro Coaxial Connectors
The MCX series connectors with snap-on coupling mechanisms offer a combination of size, weight, durability and performance for applications such as GPS, wireless or fixed communications systems and instruments. The connectors can be used from DC to 6 GHz and are tested in accordance with CECC 22220. (A wide range of connectors for different cables, printed circuit board applications or flange-mount types also are available.) Industrial quantities are available in tape-and-reel packaging. An MCX test kit as a reference standard is also available by the company.
Huber + Suhner AG, Herisau, Switzerland +41 (0) 71 353 41 11.

 

GaAs Transmit and Receive Switches
The models ITTS502AJ, ITTS505AJ and ITTS506AJ transmit and receive (T/R) switches operate over the DC to 3.5 GHz, 4.5 to 5.0 GHz and 5.0 to 6.0 GHz frequency bands, respectively. The ITTS502AJ offers insertion loss of 0.5 dB at 1 GHz, isolation of 28 dB at 1 GHz and P1dB of 33 dBm. The ITTS505AJ has an insertion loss of 1.7 dB at 1 GHz and isolation of 14 dB at 1 GHz. The ITTS506AJ is specifically targeted for the emerging U-NII and 5.8 GHz industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) band markets and exhibits an insertion loss of 1.7 dB at 1 GHz and isolation of 17 dB at 1 GHz. All three switches are housed in a plastic eight-lead mini small outline package (MSOP-8).
ITT Industries Inc., Roanoke, VA (888) 563-3949 or (540) 563-3949.

 

Wideband Converter
The model 8085 wideband converter is designed for applications that require a high performance RF front end for digital signal processing (DSP) or computer-based signal analyzers. The converter can be connected directly to broadband antenna systems to provide RF translation, filtering and gain controls for a high dynamic range DSP-based digital radio. Comprising one, two or more downconverter modules (model 8085R) and one synthesizer module (model 8085S), the wideband converter tunes to any RF signal between 20 MHz and 3 GHz, and converts the tuned RF frequency to a low band (offset baseband) frequency. The output is compatible with high speed, 12 to 16 bit analog-to-digital converters used in high performance DSP-based signal processing systems.
Technology for Communications International (TCI), Sunnyvale, CA (408) 747-6147.

 

24 GHz Notch Filter
The model 12682 notch filter removes unwanted frequencies with a 50 dB minimum notch depth at 24.9 GHz and a maximum passband loss of 0.5 dB. Used in a transmission system passing 24.25 to 24.45 GHz, the filter has a passband return loss of 16 dB (min). Operating temperature range is -10° to +60°C and humidity is 99 percent (noncondensing). WR-42 cover flanges are included, but other connectors are available. Length: 2.45" (max).
Microwave Filter Company Inc. (MFC), East Syracuse, NY (800) 448-1666 or (315) 438-4747.

 

PCS Hybrid Receiver Splitter
The model WSS2-00002 high performance, compact PCS hybrid 1-2 receiver splitter is configured with passbands from 1850 to 1910 MHz. Insertion loss within the passbands is 3.0 dB (max), passband return loss is 20 dB (min) and isolation is 20 dB (min). Maximum input power is rated at 10 W CW and 50 W (pk) instantaneous (PIP). Connectors are type-N female at all ports. Operating temperature range is 0° to +50°C. The unit measures 3.00" x 1.60", excluding connectors.
K&L Microwave Inc., Salisbury, MD (410) 749-2424.

 

Quick Disconnect Coax and Signal Connector
This circular plastic multipin connector features one 50 W coaxial (or 25 A power contact) and nine 2 A contact positions. A unique push button release facilitates use and reliable operation over 10,000 insertion/extraction cycles and eliminates the field problems and equipment downtime associated with more complex squeeze, screw or push-pull mechanisms. The unit’s rugged Ultem” housing and low insertion force contact system provide the performance required in medical, test equipment, telecommunications and broadcast equipment applications. SWR is 1.2 (max) at 3 GHz and 1.4 up to 6 GHz. Price: $38 (1000). Delivery: four to six weeks.
Hypertronics Corp., Hudson, MA (888) 497-3782 or (978) 568-0451.

 

Diplexer
The model IMT2000 diplexer has bandwidths from 1920 to 1980 MHz and 2110 to 2170 MHz, and exhibits less than 1.0 dB of insertion loss across the bandwidths while providing more than 60 dB of co-channel isolation. SWR is better than 1.5 through the passband.
Lorch Microwave, Salisbury, MD (800) 780-2169.

 

8 x 8 Wideband Relay Matrix
The model B-4108 wideband RF/video relay matrix is designed for stand-alone operation and exhibits high transparency to signals over a wide bandwidth. Frequency response is DC to 600 MHz (-3 dB) and power supply is +5 V DC at 3 A. The relay matrix supports applications for remote antenna switching, high resolution video switching, airborne switching, fast rise pulse switching, IF switching, VHF/UHF cable television switching and automatic test systems. Size: 2.25" x 7.10" x 9.00".
Matrix Systems Corp., Calabasas, CA (818) 222-2301.

 

1 GHz Reed Relay
The LP series electrostatic- and coaxial-shielded reed relays are designed for 1 GHz applications and feature compact metal cases with hermetically sealed contacts. Rated for one billion operations, these magnetically shielded devices provide 1012 W insulation resistance; are featured in 5, 12 and 24 V DC versions; and offer 50 W input/outputs. Available in Form A and Form C configurations with dry or mercury-wetted contacts, the relays measure 0.80" x 0.20" x 0.24".
MEDER Electronic Inc., Mashpee, MA (508) 539-0002.

 

X-band Threshold Detector
The model THD9410-38 threshold detector has a rise time of less than 10 ns with input pulse widths of 8.5 to 100 ms. Duty cycle is from 0.1 to 5 percent with a dual (a + b) trip setting ranging from -15 to +10 dBm and ±0.5 dB flatness over the input range. The company’s line of threshold detectors covers the 500 MHz to 26.5 GHz range in varying bandwidths. Delivery: eight to 12 weeks.
MICA Microwave Corp., San Jose, CA (408) 363-9200.

 

Four-way Power Splitter/Combiner
The model ZC4PD-18 four-way power splitter/combiner has the ability to span the 1000 to 1800 MHz frequency range with 0.3 dB of insertion loss (above 6 dB). Isolation is 32 dB (typ) and SWR input matching is 1.05 (typ). Exhibiting a maximum of 0.4 dB amplitude and 6° phase unbalance bandwidth, the splitter/combiner is housed in a rugged metal case equipped with SMA female connectors. Price: $91.95 (1-9). Delivery: stock.
Mini-Circuits, Brooklyn, NY (718) 934-4500.

 

RF Switches
The models SEM020L, SEM123L and SEM123LD SPDT switches and the models XSEM323, XSEM323D, XSEM323LD and XSEM323LD-24 transfer switches provide higher long-term reliability at a significantly lower cost. All of the models offer standard SMA connectors, logic or standard drive and fail-safe, or latching activation modes.
Narda Microwave-East, a division of L-3 Communications, Hauppauge, NY (516) 231-1700.

 

Drop-in Isolator
The model 0270IAD high power, high performance drop-in isolator provides 22 dB isolation with low insertion loss of 0.4 dB over the 2500 to 2900 MHz frequency bandwidth. The circuit tabs are designed to provide good yield during circuit assembly. The unit has 65 W termination and SWR is 1.25. (Isolators and circulators in other frequency bands are available in a similar package.) Operating temperature range is -20° to +85°C at a forward power of several hundreds watts. Storage temperature is -50° to +115°C. Size: 0.75" x 1.00" x 0.20". Delivery: stock.
Nova Microwave, Morgan Hill, CA (408) 778-2746.

 

Microstrip-launched Filters
These microstrip-lauched filters eliminate the need for traditional connectorized filters in microwave and RF assemblies. The filters cover the 1 to 20 GHz frequency range and offer low loss transitions, reduced ground loops and high isolation shielding. Types of filtering include bandpass, lowpass, highpass and bandreject. Mechanical advantages of the filters reduce expensive real estate allocation by as much as two-thirds the space of traditional filters. Attachment to the printed circuit board is by either epoxy or solder reflow at temperatures up to 235°C. Operating temperature range is -55° to +95°C. Price: from $40 to $400. Delivery: 30 days (ARO).
Q Microwave Inc., El Cajon, CA (619) 258-7322.

 

50 dB High Power Coupler
The model FC6486-1 high power coupler for use in base station power and SWR monitoring functions operates over the 825 to 895 MHz frequency range. Isolation is 15 dB (min), insertion loss is 0.5 dB (max), return loss is 26 dB (primary line) and 20 dB (secondary line), and phase deviation is ±3° (max). Power handling is 360 W (avg) and 16 kW (pk). Type-N male connectors and SMA female connectors are included. (Connectors and coupler configuration variants are available upon request.) Size: 4.0" x 2.1" x 1.0".
Sage Laboratories Inc., Natick, MA (508) 653-0844.

 

50 - 1000 MHz Power Sensor
The model PS3-9005 power sensor covers 50 to 1000 MHz applications and offers 20 dB directivity in a small surface-mount package. Midband insertion loss is 1.0 dB (max) and SWR is 1.3. Detector sensitivity is typically 0.1 V with 0 dBm input power. Operating temperature range is -55° to +85°C. Available with shaped leads and on tape-and-reel for automated assembly, the power sensor’s package measures 0.55-inch square. Price: $35 (500-999).
Signal Technology Corp., Olektron Operation, Beverly, MA (978) 524-7444.

 

High Performance Stripline Isolator
The model RADI-1.93-1.99-DE-SMAF-50W 104 stripline isolator exhibits good isolation and ultra-low insertion loss. Designed for the PCS band, the isolator dissipates up to 50 W of RF energy in the load. The state-of-the-art stripline isolator features SMA on one side and tab on the other.
RADITEK, San Jose, CA (408) 266-7404.

 

Cellular Phone Connector
The model RFS-2029 right-angle connector is designed to be used with Nokia® series 5100/6100 telephones. The connector features a quick connect/disconnect snap interface and molded, rigid PVC strain relief as well as a nickel-plated, machined-brass body, gold-plated contact and Teflon® insulation with black strain relief and shell. The connector can easily be installed on RG-174/U, RG-188/U, RG-316/U or LMR 100A cable with an access port for soldering the cable center conductor to the gold-plated contact and snap-in cover after soldering is completed. The finished assembly is clean and compact.
RF Connectors, a division of RF Industries, San Diego, CA (800) 233-1728 or (858) 549-6340.

 

Enhanced-performance Radiating Cables
The Nu-RAD series enhanced-performance radiating cables provide optimum electrical performance for in-building, subway, transit and tunneling applications. The cables offer a combination of a surface wave at lower frequencies and the generation of a radiating mode at higher frequencies, which allows multiple services to be provided on a single broadband radiating cable. The Nu-RAD cables are constructed in nonflame-retardant polyethylene as well as flame-retardant, low smoke, nonhalogen-jacketed designs. Type-N and 7/16 DIN connectors are available for quick and easy attachment.
Times Microwave Systems, a Smiths Industries PLC company, Wallingford, CT (203) 949-8417.

 

SMT Inductors and Transformers
The expanded SURFCOIL® line now includes fixed and variable surface-mount inductors, transformers, coils and filters. The parts are wound as air coils (or on a selection of ferrite cores) and can be used up to the 1 GHz frequency range. Operating over the professional-grade temperature of -40° to +125°C, the inductors are designed for use in telecommunications and electronic engineering applications as frequency components consisting of individual or coupled-resonant circuits as well as DC isolation, voltage and current transformations, and impedance matching (typically between amplifier stages). Price: 77¢ (1000). Delivery: eight weeks.
Sprague-Goodman Electronics Inc., Westbury, NY (516) 334-8700.

 

8 x 8 Switch Matrix
The model MP4182 solid-state switch matrix operates over an instantaneous bandwidth of 0.5 to 18 GHz and offers 64 possible paths. Designed for a military airborne ELINT receiver requirement, this full-access 8 x 8 switch matrix was built using an eight-throw PIN diode switch and eight-way power dividers. Operating temperature range is -54° to +71°C with each matrix subjected to a 60-hour environmental stress screening thermal cycle requirement. Isolation is 72 dB (min), input/output SWR is 2.0 and switching speed is under 300 ns. Size: 9.35" x 4.50" x 4.45".
Robinson Laboratories Inc., Nashua, NH (603) 880-7880.

 

1000 W Coaxial Attenuators and Terminations
The model 82 coaxial attenuators and model 1456 terminations are capable of handling up to 1000 W average (unidirectional) and 10 kW peak power over the frequency range of DC to 3 GHz. The attenuators are available in 20, 30 and 40 dB versions. Other features of the attenuators and terminations include a maximum SWR of 1.25 and an operating temperature range of -55° to +125°C. Type-N or 7/16 connectors are available.
Weinschel Corp., Frederick, MD (800) 638-2048 or (301) 831-4701.