Norden Millimeter has developed a new generation of broader bandwidth block up- and down-converters, developed to extend the frequency range of ELINT, COMINT, threat detection, interferometer and test systems. These new converters cover 17 to 26.5 and 25.5 to 40 GHz, providing 1 GHz overlap at the transition between bands and with 18 GHz systems.
Both converters provide 10 to 15 dB gain, with ± 2.5 dB maximum drift over temperature. The up-converter has independent input IF and output RF attenuation that provide greater than 60 dB gain control. The up-converter’s output attenuation reduces both the output signal and noise floor, maintaining the signal-to-noise ratio. The up-converter’s noise figure is 21 dB and has a 1 dB compression point of 10 dBm. The down-converter has 16.5 dB noise figure and a 1 dB compression point of 2 dBm. Both the up- and down-converters have an IF range from 2.3 to 17.7 GHz and require an external 14.4 GHz LO. They are powered with ±15 and 5 V and operate from −20°C to +70°C.
These two new products add to Norden’s existing frequency converters, which convert 18 to 26.5, 26.5 to 40, 40 to 60 and 60 to 80 GHz to 2 to 18 GHz. The existing converters offer variable gain, 30 MHz to 18 GHz bypass paths and common IF input/output. The units are offered in commercial, military and airborne hermetic cases, as well as VPX configurations. Norden’s converters have passed the stringent environmental tests required for military airborne platforms.
Norden can customize converter designs to meet demanding applications, working closely with customers on system specifications and high-reliability solutions that meet system requirements. Norden also offers commercial off-the-shelf options that reduce cost and lead times.
Norden Millimeter Inc.
Placerville, Calif.
www.nordengroup.com