Components
Chip on Board IC Control Switch
The model ASOO6M2-93 single-pole, double-throw switch is manufactured in small packages for greater freedom in layout and circuit design and features reduced parasitics, enabling the same package to be used for applications from DC to 6 GHz without degradation in performance. The switch offers higher isolation performance than traditional multiple plastic-packaged devices. Typical applications include low frequency, broadband test equipment, 5 to 6 GHz wireless data radios, electronic toll collection and wireless local loop systems operating above 2 GHz. Prices: start at $5.75 (1000). (Prices vary depending on product and quantity.)
Alpha Industries, Woburn, MA (800) 290-7200, ext. 306 or (508) 894-1904.
Miniature PIN Diode Switch
The model SW-2184-1 single-pole, single-throw driverless, reflective PIN diode switch operates over the 300 MHz to 20 GHz frequency range. At a bias voltage of -10 V, maximum insertion loss varies between 1.0 dB below 1 GHz and 2.5 dB at 20 GHz. At a bias current of +35 mA, minimum isolation varies between 45 dB below 1 GHz, 85 dB at 10 GHz and 70 dB at 20 GHz. The switch provides fast switching delay of 10 ns and SWR is 2.1 (max). Size: 0.79" x 0.88" x 0.48". Weight: 1.1 oz.
American Microwave Corp., Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700.
Ultra-low ESR Microwave Capacitors
The 6000 series microwave capacitors offer a typical low equivalent series resistance (ESR) of 80 mW at 1 GHz with capacitance values ranging from 0.1 to 100 pF. Designed for cellular base station equipment, high Q frequency source and broadband wireless service applications, the NPO capacitor supports requirements where low loss and high performance are critical. Packaged in a 0603 case size, the capacitors are designed to meet and exceed requirements of EIA-198, MIL-C-55681 and MIL-C-123. All units are available laser marked and in tape-and-reel. Delivery: stock.
American Technical Ceramics (ATC), Huntington Station, NY (613) 622-4700.
869 - 894 MHz Circulator
The model BU122 circulator for multicarrier power amplifiers operates over the 869 to 894 MHz frequency range. The circulator provides -75 dBc (min) of intermodulation distortion performance at eight tones at 120 W average power level. Isolation is 23 dB (min), insertion loss is < 0.2 dB and SWR is 1.15 (max). Other power levels and frequency ranges also are available.
Channel Microwave Corp., Camarillo, CA (805) 482-7280.
Miniature High Power Coaxial Remote Terminations
The model 12-5021 miniature high power coaxial remote terminations are designed specifically for applications where high power terminations are required to be remotely located and connected to an RF system via a coaxial cable. The terminations feature integral cable inputs and are well suited for isolator, coupler and dummy load applications. Average power handling is 150 W CW and operating temperature range is -55° to +100°C (full power). The units decrease the number of interconnections in systems at reduced costs over a discrete cable and termination approach. Coaxial cable lengths from 1" to 100" are available.
Florida RF Labs Inc., Stuart, FL (800) 544-5594 or (561) 286-9300.
SP8T PIN Diode Switch
The F9180 series low cost, broadband SP8T PIN diode switches operate over the 1 to 18 GHz frequency range with a ±5 or +5 V DC and -12 to -15 V DC power supply. For the reflective design, insertion loss varies from 60 dB at 1 GHz to 50 dB at 18 GHz and corresponding values for the nonreflective designs are 2.0 and 4.2 dB, respectively. Isolation varies from 60 dB at 1 GHz to 50 dB at 18 GHz and SWR limit ranges from 1.7 to 2.0 depending on frequency. Switching speed is less than 200 ns and operating temperature range is -55° to +110°C withstanding power levels as high as 75 W (pk). Individual port TTL logic control and power supply connections are made by means of a DA15P connector. Size: 4.65" x 1.50" x 0.75". Weight: 8.5 oz.
General Microwave Corp., Farmingdale, NY (631) 630-2000.
Parallel Board-to-board SMT Connectors
The FX10 series parallel board-to-board surface-mounted connectors offer increased transmission speeds at only 4 to 5 mm between boards via ground plenums on both mating assemblies. Ground stability is achieved with direct connection of the ground plenums to the board; signal contacts are 0.5 mm spacing with ground plenum contacts every 10 contact positions. (Additional stability is provided with board solder brackets.) Ground plenums and contacts have effective wipe lengths of 1 mm/min, thereby assuring a reliable interconnection. Designed specifically for portable and miniature electronic applications, the connectors are available in a variety of contact positions (with or without positioning posts) and sizes of 80, 100, 120 and 140. Price: $2.42 (100-position OEM lots). Delivery: six to eight weeks.
Hirose Electric (USA) Inc., Simi Valley, CA (805) 522-7958.
Between Series Adapters
The GPO™/SMA between series adapters provide a convenient and efficient transition between two popular connector designs. The GPO is a popular push- on connection method where harsh mechanical environments of shock and vibration exist. The models 5190 through 5193 provide a maximum SWR of 1.20 from DC to 18 GHz.
Inmet Corp., Ann Arbor, MI (888) 244-6638.
DCS Fullband Duplexer
The model WSD-00064 high performance, digital communication system (DCS) fullband duplexer is configured with a receive passband of 1710 to 1785 MHz and a transmit passband of 1805 to 1880 MHz. Insertion loss within the passband is 1.3 dB (max) and passband return loss is 15 dB (min). Antenna to receive rejection is 60 dB (min) from DC to 1620 MHz, 25 dB (min) from 1620 to 1690 MHz, 85 dB (min) from 1805 to 1880 MHz, 45 dB (min) from 1880 to 3800 MHz and 30 dB (min) from 3800 to 12,750 MHz. Transmit to antenna rejection is 85 dB (min) from DC to 1780 MHz, 60 dB (min) from 1970 to 3800 MHz and 30 dB (min) from 3800 to 12,750 MHz. Passband to passband isolation is 8 dB. The unit is well suited for macro or micro DCS base stations, repeaters and systems, or handset DCS test system applications. Operating temperature range is -20° to +70°C. Connectors are DIN 7/16 female at the antenna port and N-F at the receive/transmit ports. Size: 8.36" x 5.75" x 1.77", excluding connectors.
K&L Microwave Inc., Salisbury, MD (410) 749-2424.
Contactless Phase Shifter
The models KPH900SCL000 and KPH900SCL001 contactless phase shifters (CPS) cover frequency ranges up to 3 GHz and provide 90° of minimum incremental phase shifting at 2 GHz and maximum electrical delay of 125 picoseconds. Insertion loss is 0.15 dB at 1 GHz, 0.25 dB at 2 GHz and 0.35 dB at 3 GHz and SWR is 1.25. The model KPH200SCL000 drop-in type CPS provides 30° of minimum incremental phase shifting at 2 GHz and maximum electrical delay of 41.7 picoseconds. The phase shifters reduce time and complexity in production, making them well suited for applications that require phased signals.
KMW Inc., Cerritos, CA (562) 926-2033.
Drop-in Isolators and Circulators
The model DNF1900-T0038A miniaturized isolator operates over the 935 to 960 MHz frequency band and minimizes printed circuit board space, lowering the overall cost of cellular base stations. (Miniaturized circulators also are available.) Available in either surface-mount (gull wing) or drop-in configurations, the units offer isolation of 23 dB, insertion loss of 0.4 dB and SWR of 1.15. The units are housed in 0.750-inch packages without jeopardizing performance, as compared to the standard one-inch packages. Operating temperature range is -40° to +85° with processing temperatures up to 235°. Delivery: stock to 30 days.
Mica Microwave Corp., San Jose, CA (408) 363-9200.
Drop-in Isolator
The model DSW1042-A drop-in isolator for base station power amplifier applications is available in PCS 1900, DCS 1800, EDSM, AMPS and UMPTS frequencies. The isolator offers good performance specifications and includes integrated termination, reverse power detector with TTL output compatibility and high torque SMA connectors. The DSW1042-A is factory-configurable to meet custom specifications.
TRAK Communications Ltd., a TRAK Communications company, Dundee, cotland +44 (0) 1382 833 411.
High Performance Cable Assemblies
These high performance, semi-rigid, pre-formed build-to-print cable assemblies maintain electric parameters, including SWR of < 1.25 to 18 GHz. Phase and amplitude matching are available. The company offers competitively priced products as well as a large connector inventory, reducing lead times.
RFCircuits Inc., Hatboro, PA (215) 675-8003.
AMPS Band Transmit Filter
The model AFB-21A-8689-01 AMPS band transmit filter provides highly selective receive band filtering while delivering more than 75 dB of isolation in the 824 to 849 receive band. Passband insertion loss is 1.0 dB (max) and 0.7 dB (typ). Designed to pass through the full 869 to 892 MHz AMPS transmit band, the filter has power ratings of 500 W CW, 10 kW (pk) with multicarrier power capabilities of 20 carriers at 25 W each. Type-N connectors are standard, and 7/16 DIN connectors are available as an option.
Narda Microwave-West, a division of L-3 Communications, Folsom, CA (916) 351-4500.
High Power Reactive Signal Sampler
The model HX-10N 500 W sampler-detector consists of a low loss coaxial transmission line to which a reactive probe is loosely coupled. A small portion of the RF energy in the main line is coupled by the probe loop to the auxiliary output via a detector diode. The coupling between the probe and the main line is continuously adjustable and can be locked at any convenient position. A common application is to connect the sampler-detector to the load port of the transmit isolator. When reflected power exceeds a predetermined level, the pre-set detected output will sound the alarm.
Microlab/FXR, Livingston, NJ (973) 992-7700.
1.0 - 18 GHz SPST Nonreflective Switch
This broadband 1.0 to 18 GHz SPST nonreflective switch features -60 dBm in band video transients, a 9-PIN mini D connector and two nonreflective ports with 1 W of hot switching. Switching speed is 30 ns and voltage supply is +5 V at 90 mA and -15 V at 70 mA. Isolation is 60 dB and insertion loss is 3.5 dB. The switch is best suited as a pulse modulator for test equipment, a robust bench-top switch for automatic testing equipment or a high linearity switch for electronic warfare applications. Size: 1.10" x 1.10" x 0.42".
Micronetics Wireless Inc., Hudson, NH (603) 883-2900.
Channel Filter Assembly
The Merrimac 14 channel filter assembly operates over the 2.53 to 5.26 GHz frequency range and contains 14 seven-pole, stripline Chebyshev hairpin resonator filters. Phase match between odd and even filters is ±45° at ±50 MHz crossover points with a power supply of 1.0 W. Input/output return loss is 10 dB (min) and input/output impedance is 50 W (nom). Operating temperature range is -65° to +125°. Size: 1.50" x 2.90 x 0.13".
Merrimac Industries Inc., West Caldwell, NJ (888) 434-6636.
Single-channel ENG Bandpass Filter
The model 12861 single-channel electronic news gathering (ENG) bandpass filter operates over the 1990 to 2110 MHz frequency range and has an 8 MHz bandwidth, providing less than 3.5 dB of insertion loss at center frequency. The unit offers greater than 25 dB of rejection at ±7 MHz from center frequency, thereby providing selectivity to remove undesired or interfering frequencies. (For greater out-of-band frequencies, the unit offers either 8 or 16 MHz bandwidths and additional sections.) Designed for indoor applications, the unit also can be modified for outdoor use. Connectors are 50 W type-N female, but other connectors are available upon request.
Microwave Filter Company Inc. (MFC), East Syracuse, NY (800) 448-1666 or (315) 438-4747.
Ultraminiature Switch Connector
This ultraminiature SWD switch connector is designed specifically for use in testing wireless equipment and operates in the licensed or unlicensed DC to 6 GHz frequency bands. The switch connector employs an ultraminiature, surface-mountable receptacle with integrated mechanical switching functions and a choice of test probes, making it well suited for use in troubleshooting RF circuits or performing automated system checks in a high speed process in factories. Insertion loss is 0.1 dB (max) without adapter. Available on tape-and-reel, the unit offers the capability of easy measurement of radio board characteristics from outside of the portable device’s case. Price: 45¢ to 55¢ in moderate quantities (10,000 to 25,000).
Murata Electronics North America Inc. (MENA), Smyrna, GA (770) 433-5782.
Biphase Modulator/Shifter
The model PS-90-0612 miniature, single-balanced biphase modulator/shifter provides ±90° or 180° of phase shifting (±10) over the 6 to 12 GHz frequency range. (Double-balanced options also are available.) Other frequencies from 2 to 18 GHz are available in octave bandwidths. Insertion loss is 2.5 dB and SWR is 2.0 (typ). The biphase modulator/shifter operates from +5 V DC at +75 mA and -5 V DC at -20 mA (max), and offers rise and fall times of 20 ns and 10 ns, respectively, and 60 ns delay on and 45 ns delay off. (High speed 25 ns units also are available.) Output logic is TTL, but ECL also is available. Size: 2.00" x 0.79" x 0.54".
Planar Monolithics Industries Inc. (PMI), Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700.
Microwave Assembly
The model MP4269 switch filter bank integrates seven switched bandpass filters that operate over the input frequency range of 0.45 to 20.1 GHz and a passband range of 0.45 to 8.05 GHz. Passband insertion loss is 5.5 dB (max), passband-to-passband variation is 1.5 dB (max) and differential group delay is 10 ns. Channel-to-channel isolation is 60 dB (min), SWR (at all ports) is 1.8 and input third-order intercept is +30 dBm (min). Logic is CMOS compatible. Operating temperature range is 0° to 70°C with power supply voltages of +5 or -15 V. Size: 5.00" x 4.00"x 0.50", excluding SMA field-replaceable connectors.
Robinson Laboratories Inc., Nashua, NH (603) 880-7880.
Dual-band Quadrature Hybrid
The model FH6370-1 dual-band quadrature hybrid handles 200 W CW of power while operating over the 800 to 2400 MHz frequency range. Insertion loss is 0.2 dB (typ), SWR is 1.22 (max) and isolation is 20 dB (min). Typical applications for the quadrature hybrid include antenna feeds and amplifier combing in telecommunication base stations. Type-N female connectors are standard, but alternate connector requirements are available upon request. Size: 5.60" x 1.50" x 1.00".
Sage Laboratories Inc., Natick, MA (508) 653-0844.
DC - 3 GHz GaAs SPDT Switch
The model IS-2103 GaAs SPDT switch covers the DC to 3.0 GHz frequency range with isolation of 50 dB. Switching speed is 2 ns, insertion loss is 0.7 dB and typical third-order intercept is +49 dBm. The switch is well suited for next-generation applications where package size and performance are critical. Housed in a SOIC-8 plastic surface-mount package, the unit is available on tape-and-reel for automated assembly. Price: $1.48 (1000-2499).
Signal Technology Corp., Olektron Operation, Beverly, MA (978) 524-7444.
Connector and Ground Kit Attachment
The LMR® flexible coaxial cables now include prep (strip) tools, which simplify preparation of the cable end for connector attachment by easily removing the cable jacket and exposing the center conductor to the exact dimensions required; deburring tools, which remove burrs or sharp edges remaining on the end of the center conductor; heavy duty precision crimp tools and interchangeable dies for years of reliable service; and midspan strip tools, which prepare the cable for attaching the ground kit by carefully removing the outer polyethylene jacket without damaging the underlying shield. The LMR cables are well suited for use as antenna feeders, system jumpers and interconnects.
Times Microwave Systems, Wallingford, CT (203) 949-8489.
Precision Trimmer Capacitors
The model V6152 sapphire dielectric has been added to the company’s line of dual-tracking precision trimmer capacitors to work in the gigahertz range. The tuning screw of the split-stator style adjusts two capacitors at the same rate, and the capacitors have one common terminal. The V6152 measures 0.48" long, tunes from 0.5 to 3.5 pF and can be used over 2 GHz. At 250 MHz, Q is over 1500. The unit also can be fine-tuned with more than 10 full turns. Price: $16 (1000). Delivery: four weeks.
Voltronics Corp., Denville, NJ (973) 586-8585.
Miniature 75 W SMB Edge-mount PCB Connectors
These 75 W SMB matched-impedance connectors feature an air-dielectric interface that allows the envelope dimensions to conform to the miniature size of MIL-PRF-39012 SMB series connectors. The convenient snap-on mating and small size make them ideal for use in applications requiring dense packaging. The connectors fit on the edge of a PCB up to 0.062" thick and are soldered directly to the board circuitry without drilling. The connectors also can replace more expensive conventional right-angle types, and are constructed with brass bodies and contacts and Teflon insulators. All metal parts are gold plated to meet MIL-PRF-39012 requirements.
Applied Engineering Products (AEP), New Haven, CT (203) 776-2813.
RF Coaxial Panel Jack
The model 7-16 EL RF coaxial panel jack features a connector body that measures 1.25- inches from the flange to easily attach cables and a large center conductor access hole to simplify soldering. Available for 0.141-inch and 0.250-inch semi-rigid cable, the panel jack has a direct solder inner and outer center conductor with a solid outer ring. The panel jack is manufactured with silver-plated or Tru-Lustre™ tri-metal brass bodies, silver-plated beryllium copper female contacts, and silver- or gold-plated brass male contacts. Designed specifically for cellular base station antenna, telecommunication and related equipment applications, the 7-16 EL offers -155 dBc typical intermodulation and is rated up to 2700 V rms with 50 W impedance. Price: $12.95 (1000).
Tru-Connector Corp., Peabody, MA (978) 532-0775.
Low Intermodulation 50 W Load
The model 50-T-FN 50 W load offers low intermodulation for cellular and PCS applications. Typical intermodulation for the cellular band is -116 dBc when tested at +43 dBm; typical intermodulation for the PCS band is -121 dBc when tested at +43 dBm. The load has a frequency range of DC to 4 GHz with SWRs of 1.10 (DC to 1 GHz) and 1.25 (DC to 4 GHz). Connector options are BNC, IEC 7/16, N type and TNC.
BCP, Largo, FL (727) 547-8826.
Programmable Attenuators and Interfaces
The model 8210A SmartStep™ interface provides a flexible, low cost solution for the control and operation of electromechanical switches and programmable step attenuators using standard communications interfaces. The 8210A is designed specifically to interface with SmartStep programmable attenuators, providing a high level interface from various industry standard communications interfaces, including IEEE-488 and RS232/RS422/RS485. The SmartStep technology streamlines system design and device integration by providing a flexible bus interface as well as components that are simple to configure and control.
Weinschel Corp., Frederick, MD (800) 638-2048 or (301) 846-9222.
Improved Cables
HELIAX® cables now provide enhanced electrical performance due to improvements in the closed cell foam dielectric design and refinements and advances in the company’s cable manufacturing process. For example, at 894 MHz, HELIAX LDF7-50A (1-5/8") cable now has 0.71 dB/100 feet attenuation, a 0.6 dB improvement. At 2 GHz, the cable offers 1.17 dB/100 feet attenuation, a 0.08 dB improvement.
Andrew Corp., Orland Park, IL (800) 255-1479.
High Performance Transformers
These HDSL2 transformers are optimized for level one SK70740/-41/-42 and other HDSL2 transceiver chip sets. The model H27650-A and surface-mount model H27695-A transformers are among the smallest available with a footprint of 0.650" x 0.675" x 0.350" (16.5 x 17.2 x 8.0 mm). The company’s HDSL2 magnetics are engineered for minimum DC resistance (1.5 to 5 W) and very low leakage inductance (15 mH, typ). Primary inductance with and without bias is stable from -40° to +85°C. Return loss is 13 to 15 dB at 320 kHz and typical longitudinal balance at 40 kHz is rated at 65 dB. All parts are designed to meet UL 1459 and UL1950 requirements. Price: $1.80 (10,000). Delivery: stock.
Coilcraft, Cary, IL (847) 639-6400.
Coaxial Relay
The model 76A00 coaxial relay incorporates a built-in RF or video amplifier that is convenient when assembling nonblocking matrices or when a gain block is needed in conjunction with a coaxial relay. The module is self-terminating, allowing it to mate with power splitters (which always need to be terminated). In addition, the unit can be used independently or incorporated in the company’s model 11600 controller chassis, which provides RS-232, RS-422, IEEE-488 and keypad control. The relay’s frequency response of DC up to 800 MHz makes it ideal for switching wideband RF/IF or fast rise video/pulse signals.
Matrix Systems, Calabassas, CA (818) 222-2301.
Low Loss, High Linearity MOSFET Quad Mixer
The model PE4120 high linearity MOSFET quad mixer is a passive broadband device that performs functions ranging from frequency conversion to phase detection at up to 2.5 GHz. A conversion loss of only 6 dB across its entire operating frequency range of 500 MHz to 2.5 GHz makes the unit ideal for such applications as cellular/PCS telephone network base stations and cable modems. The device mixes a received RF signal without the output of a LO to produce an IF. Similarly, it mixes IF and LO signals to produce an RF output. Power loss during the conversion process is only 6 dB at any frequency, with a 20 dBm LO drive. Linearity is 36 dB and LO-RF isolation is 34 dB over the temperature range of -40° to +85°C. Price: $1.00 (10,000).
Peregrine Semiconductor Corp., San Diego, CA (858) 455-0660.
6 - 18 GHz I & Q Vector Modulator
The model M2L-68N-5 360°/20 dB PIN diode I & Q vector modulator operates from 6 to 18 GHz and offers simultaneous phase and amplitude control. Total phase error access across the entire band is < ±10° and amplitude error is < ±1.5 dB. SWR is better than 2 and insertion loss is < 12 dB. The device demonstrates a linear control input slope with output voltage and is packaged to form, fit and function as an industry-recognized standard. With monotonic performance, the device is digitally controlled via two sets (I & Q) of 12-bit, TTL-compatible, binary logic inputs and the switching speed is < 500 ns. A device with a frequency range of 2 to 18 GHz is also available.
G.T. Microwave Inc., Randolph, NJ (973) 361-5700.
Low Cost SMT Directional Couplers
The GLSN series surface-mount directional couplers provide a selection of coupling values from 6 to 16 dB and the compact design (5.7 x 5.7 x 4.0 mm) uses a dual-aperture ferrite core on a ceramic base. The model GLSN16D152 16 dB coupler offers a maximum loss at 20 MHz of 0.6 dB and 3 dB band limits of 0.5 to 1500 MHz. All models have an operating temperature range of -40° to +125°C. The couplers are suitable for automatic insertion into circuits assembled using reflow or vapor phase soldering. Terminals are formed from the ends of the coil windings, eliminating solder joints between the coil and the terminals that could open from the heat of circuit assembly. Price: 99¢ (production quantities). Delivery: eight to 10 weeks.
Sprague-Goodman Electronics Inc., Westbury, NY (516) 334-8700.
18 - 26.5 GHz Eight-way Power Divider/Combiner
The model PS8-116 eight-way power divider/combiner operates from 18 to 26.5 GHz and offers a high isolation of 17 dB (min) and low insertion loss of 2.8 dB (max) (over nominal loss). SWR is 1.6. The unit exhibits a ±0.5 dB amplitude and ±12° phase balance. It is housed in a rugged aluminum material with type SMA female connectors. Delivery: stock.
Microwave Communications Laboratories Inc. (MCLI), St. Petersburg, FL (727) 344-6254.
Metal Oxide Varistors
These metal oxide varistor transient voltage surge suppressors are offered in seven model sizes from 5 to 20 mm (dia) and have a VM (AC/RMS) voltage range from 10 to 1000 V. Energy absorption capabilities are up to 560 joules. These radial leaded devices are ideally suited for operating continuously across the line (AC) for protecting expensive, sensitive electronic components. Prices (1000): 5¢, 5 mm size; 30¢, 20 mm size. Delivery: stock to eight weeks.
Laube Technology, Camarillo, CA (888) 355-2823.
Surface-mount LC Filter
The model 8623 fully hermetic sealed surface-mount LC filter for wireless applications is capable of surviving high temperature reflow and aqueous cleaning requirements. The unit is centered at 6 MHz with a 1 dB passband of 300 kHz and a 40 dB stopband of ±1 MHz. The filter also features outstanding group delay performance and 50 W input/output resistance.
Piezo Technology Inc. (PTI), Orlando, FL (407) 298-2000.
Lumped Element VHF Circulators
The models 3C100, 3C101 and 3C102 drop-in circulators are designed for 200 W CW input power and operate over the 132 to 174 MHz, 132 to 154 MHz and 150 to 174 MHz frequency ranges, respectively. All models offer 18 dB (min) isolation, 0.6 dB (max) insertion loss and 1.3 (max) SWR. Return loss is 18 dB (min). Size: 1.99" x 2.54" x 0.75" (50 x 65 x 19 mm). Delivery: two weeks.
Alcatel, Ferrocom Ferrite Products, San Jose, CA (408) 229-8171.