New Products

2 to 18 GHz Down Converter

This down converter module operates in a frequency range from 2 to 18 GHz, making it ideally suited for Electronic Warfare (EW) and Electronic Counter Measures (ECM). The module down-converts the broadband RF input signal to a UHF frequency on the IF output. A high isolation buffer amplifier at the LO input, along with tight filtering on RF, LO and IF ports, helps to minimize spurious signals at all inputs and outputs. A broadband limiter is incorporated on the RF front-end for receiver protection, and temperature compensation is used to provide a stable RF-IF gain response over an extended military operating temperature range.

Endwave Defense Systems,
Sunnyvale, CA (408) 522-3180,
www.endwave.com.

AC/DC Transfer Standard

After years of research and development, the company has developed a new process for manufacturing thermal converters. Each unit is now being manufactured with Evanohms’ heater wire and cold bead, which results in lower AC/DC and reversal errors. This unit has been tested by national labs and proven to have low errors. The versatility of the new process allows the use of platinum leads for Evanohm leads for heater wire, which results in extremely flat response to 100 MHz and beyond.

MeasureTech Inc.,
formerly Precision Measurements,
Sun Valley, CA (818) 504-2721,
www.measure-tech.com.

Amplifier Integrated Microwave Assembly

Model 3703A offers a unique combination of power, bandwidth and harmonic suppression in a highly integrated microwave assembly. This model offers a minimum power output of 5 W CW over the frequency range of 0.5 to 18 GHz while suppressing harmonics to a level of –60 dBc minimum. The assembly employs a tandem connection of switches, medium power amplifiers, filters and combining switches to achieve broadband coverage. The implementation shown utilizes mechanical switches to achieve the maximum output power with a band switching speed of 10 milliseconds. The model 3703B is available with PIN diode switches and 1 microsecond switching speed, but maximum output power is limited to 1 W CW. These products were developed to meet flightline military requirements.

Rodelco Electronics Corp.,
Ronkonkoma, NY (631) 981-0900,
www.rodelcocorp.com.

5 W High Linearity Amplifier

The model SM2040-37 is a high linearity amplifier designed for multipurpose use in military and commercial applications. The unit operates from 2 to 4 GHz with a P1dB of +37 dBm and OIP3 of +47 dBm. Gain is 37 dB with a flatness of ±0.75 dB across the band. Standard features include a single +12 VDC supply, thermal protection with auto reset and over/reverse voltage protection. In module form, the unit measures 5" × 2.5" × 0.056"; an integral heatsink is also available.

Stealth Microwave Inc.,
Trenton, NJ (609) 538-8586,
www.stealthmicrowave.com.

SMA Male Termination

The commercial grade 2001-7017-80 is a 10 W SMA male termination that operates in a frequency range from DC to 18 GHz. This model features a lightweight, passivated stainless steel body and coupling nut, gold plated beryllium copper center contact, and a black anodized aluminum heat sink. This product is ideal for test and measurement as well as both military and telecommunications volume production applications that require good long-term performance and low cost.

XMA Corp.,
Manchester, NH (603) 222-2256,
www.xmacorp.com.

43 dB Dual-directional Coupler

The model C7734 is a low loss, 80:1 bandwidth coupler that covers the entire frequency band from 30 to 2500 MHz, making it ideal for wideband military and commercial applications. This model is rated at 100 W CW, with an insertion loss of 0.35 dB, VSWR (ML) of 1.25, coupling flatness of 40 dB ±1.5 dB and directivity of 18 dB. Size: 3.5" × 2.6" × 0.7".

Werlatone Inc.,
Brewster, NY (845) 279-6187,
www.werlatone.com.

Components

Absorptive Switch

The SP3T, absorptive PIN diode switch operates in a frequency range from 2 to 6 GHz. The isolation is 70 dB with an insertion loss of 3.5 dB and a VSWR of 2.0. The switching speed is 15 ns rise/fall and 100 ns on/off at +20 dBm maximum RF input power. The switch offers TTL control and a DC power supply of +5 VDC at 150 mA maximum and –5 VDC at 100 mA maximum.

American Microwave Corp.,
Frederick, MD (301) 662-4700,
www.americanmicrowavecorp.com.

Coaxial Attenuators

The EI7004-xx series is RoHS compliant N type, stainless steel, 2 W compact coaxial attenuators. This series is low in price and covers wireless applications over the DC to 18 GHz frequency range and is available in attenuation values from 1 to 40 dB value. Standard attenuation values include 3, 6, 10, 20 and 30 dB. Standard and custom attenuator kits are also available and are in stock for immediate delivery.

Electronika International Inc.,
Cleveland, OH (440) 743-7034,
www.electronikainc.com.

Chip and Coaxial Equalizers

These surface-mount chip and coaxial equalizers are designed to compensate frequency variations in RF and microwave subsystems. These equalizers are available in a fixed frequency response version and a temperature variable frequency response. In addition, the company can develop custom variations specific to the frequency band and temperature slope characteristics of a customer’s application. All EMC equalizers are available with both negative and positive slope coefficients. The CE chip equalizer (1.30 sq in) offers linear broadband fixed slope frequency compensation from 2 to 18 GHz in 1 to 5 dB values.

EMC Technology,
Stuart, FL (772) 286-9300,
www.emct.com.

Logarithmic Detector/Controller

The model HMC600LP4 (E) is a logarithmic detector/controller that is ideal for RF power measurement and control in cellular/3G, telematic, WiMAX and WiBro applications over the 50 MHz to 4 GHz frequency range. This model is fabricated in a SiGe BiCMOS process, and converts RF signals at its differential input to a proportional output DC voltage. The HMC600LP4 (E) delivers an extremely high ±3 dB dynamic range of up to 75 dB, with good accuracy and temperature stability from 50 to 4000 MHz.

Hittite Microwave Corp.,
Chelmsford, MA (978) 250-3343,
www.hittite.com.

750 MHz to 15 GHz Mixers

The SIM series of frequency mixers operates in broadband and multi-band RF applications over the frequency range from 750 MHz to 15 GHz. Because of their expansive bandwidth, these double-balanced mixers are also useful for both up and down converting. The low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) leadless package delivers good temperature stability, repeatable performance, high ESD capability and meets the need for high speed automated manufacturing. Price: from $4.95 each (1000). In stock.

Mini-Circuits,
Brooklyn, NY (718) 934-4500,
www.minicircuits.com.

10 dB Directional Coupler

The model RFOC-811-QRC-dc-10 is a 10 dB directional coupler with field replaceable SMA connectors that operates in a frequency range from 8 to 11 GHz. By using the technology of microstripline to stripline transitions, all the feedthrus of input and output ports can be soldered directly to the mechanical housing to have better mechanical support. The coupler is suitable for RF and microwave subsystem integration. The maximum true insertion loss and the minimum directivity of the coupler are 1.6 and 10 dB, respectively. Size: 1" × 0.6" × 0.38".

Planar Monolithics Industries Inc.,
Frederick, MD (301) 631-1579,
www.planarmonolithics.com.

High Power Transmitter Combiner

These high power transmitter combiners are designed for base station systems including GSM, DCS, PCS and UMTS. Field-tested for true high performance, these combiners have shown excellent low operation temperature and stability for maximum reliability and energy efficiency. Features include: high isolation, low operating temperatures, two separately fused fan banks for redundancy, long life span and a standard 19" – 2U rack size.

Renaissance Electronics Corp.,
Harvard, MA (978) 772-7774,
www.rec-usa.com.

Two-way Power Divider

The model PS2-52-450/8S is a two-way power divider that operates in a frequency range from 5 to 40 GHz. This model offers a 2.2 dB insertion loss, 13 dB isolation and 1.90 maximum VSWR. Amplitude and phase balance are 0.8 dB and ±10°, respectively. Power rating is 1 W and 2.92 female connectors are utilized.

Pulsar Microwave Corp.,
Clifton, NJ (973) 779-6262,
www.pulsarmicrowave.com.

Slide Rule Calculator

The LMR“ slide rule calculator has been updated to include new connectors and tools as well as more frequencies. The calculator has a handy chart on one side showing the attenuation in dB/100 feet of each LMR cable size at various common frequencies and the key electrical and physical characteristics of each cable. The other side shows the most common LMR connectors as well as a listing of the prep and installation tools for use with LMR cables and connectors.

Times Microwave Systems,
Wallingford, CT (203) 949-8400,
www.timesmicrowave.com.

GPS Notch Filter

The part number 6R7-1575.42-X15N11 is a highly selective cavity notch filter. This unit is centered at the GPS frequency of 1575.42 MHz and offers a nominal 3 dB bandwidth of 15 MHz. The notch depth is greater than 70 dB at the center frequency ±1 MHz, and has an insertion loss measuring less than 1.25 dB.

Reactel Inc.,
Gaithersburg, MD (301) 519-3660,
www.reactel.com.

WiMAX Bandpass Filter

This high performance bandpass filter was designed for use in WiMAX base stations filtering broadband information in the 2.5 GHz band. This model offers a maximum 0.7 dB of insertion loss and provides over 30 dB of band rejection at DC to 2.45 GHz and at 2.74 GHz during operation. In addition, this bandpass filter is compact in size with 120 × 90 × 40 mm (4.72" × 3.54" × 1.57"). The bandpass filter is also available with 3.5 GHz frequency band.

Universal Microwave Technology Inc.,
Taipei, Taiwan +886 2 2698 9969,
www.umt-tw.com.

Amplifiers

Low Noise Amplifiers

The AMFW catalog line of SATCOM waveguide amplifiers utilizes PHEMTs offering low noise figures in the various frequency bands associated with S- and Ka-band satellite communication. Achieving noise temperatures as low as 30 K, these amplifiers have been designed using state-of-the-art technology and can be used in either fixed or transportable applications. The high reliability design of these amplifiers allows the company to offer a standard two-year warranty on units that consistently experience the harsh environments involved with satellite base station operation.

MITEQ Inc.,
Hauppauge, NY (631) 436-7400,
www.miteq.com.

Low Noise Amplifier

The model PE10WR137-34-68R2-12 is a low noise amplifier that features a removable WR-137 waveguide input and SMA female output connector. This model offers 34 dB typical gain while maintaining a typical noise figure of 0.7 dB (51 K). The output power at 1 dB compression is greater than +2 dBm. Other options are also available.

Planar Electronics Technology,
Frederick, MD (301) 662-5019,
www.planarelec.com.

Low Noise Mixer Preamplifier

The model PKKa-5B is a low noise mixer preamplifier that operates at an LO and RF input frequency from 18 to 40 GHz in WRD-180 waveguide. This mixer-preamplifier offers a double sideband noise figure of only 4 dB typical and 8 dB maximum using an LO input power of 0 to +4 dBm. The PKKa-5B has an IF output frequency of 10 to 500 MHz in SMA(F). RF to IF gain is 25 dB typical. Bias is +15 VDC at 50 mA.

Spacek Labs Inc.,
Santa Barbara, CA (805) 564-4404,
www.spaceklabs.com.

Integrated Circuit

GaAs MMIC Receivers

These gallium arsenide (GaAs) monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) receivers are available in RoHS compliant, surface-mount technology packages and operate in a frequency range from 11 to 45 GHz. Features of these parts include high linearity, low noise and broadband performance provided in low cost, standard QFN packages. These receivers are ideal for wireless communications applications such as millimeter-wave point-to-point radio, local multipoint distribution services, SATCOM and VSAT applications.

Mimix Broadband Inc.,
Houston, TX (281) 988-4600,
www.mimixbroadband.com.

Sources

Oven-controlled Crystal Oscillators

These oven-controlled crystal oscillators (OCXO) exhibit a low phase noise of –160 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz. The 9325D has a nominal frequency of 100 MHz improving system phase noise for high frequency applications by lessening the multiplication factor. The device also has tight frequency stability of ±50 ppb maximum over the operating temperature range of –20° to +70°C, and low harmonic distortion of –60 dB typical. It operates on +12 VDC, with an output level of 3 dBm minimum and an output load of 50 Ω. Size: 25.4 × 25.4 mm 5-pin through-hole package with a height of 12.7 mm.

NDK America Inc.,
Belvidere, IL (800) 635-9825,
www.ndk.com.

Temperature-compensated Crystal Oscillator

The model IT5300D is a high stability temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) in a 5 × 3.2 mm package. The IT5300D employs an analog IC for temperature compensation providing ±0.16 ppm temperature stability and is available within an operating temperature range from –20° to 70°C. Frequencies are available from 10 to 52 MHz, with either clipped sinewave or HCMOS output. The unit also offers superior phase noise performance and can operate on any supply voltage between 2.7 and 5.5 V.

Rakon Ltd.,
Auckland, New Zealand +64 (9) 573 5554,
www.rakon.com.

C-band Coaxial Resonator Oscillator

The model CRO3375A-LF is a lead-free, RoHS compliant, coaxial resonator oscillator that operates in C-band (3370 to 3380 MHz) and features low phase noise performance of –113 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset from the carrier. The design offers good tuning linearity with a typical tuning sensitivity of 7 MHz/V. It is designed to operate at 5 VDC supply while drawing 21 mA (typical) over the extended operating temperature range of –40° to 85°C. This model is ideally suited for applications that require signal stability, tuning linearity and low phase noise performance. Size: 0.50" × 0.50" × 0.22". Price: $29.95/VCO (5). Delivery: four weeks.

Z-Communications Inc.,
San Diego, CA (858) 621-2700,
www.zcomm.com.

Test Equipment

Wireless Communications Test Set

This wireless communications test set platform is an ideal solution for calibrating mobile phones in high volume manufacturing. The E6601A is an integrated test system in one box. It features a built-in open Windows“ XP PC, which allows test programs to be developed, downloaded and executed directly in the system—eliminating the test system PC and saving system space and cost. With a completely new measurement architecture designed for high speed measurements and good accuracy, repeatability and measurement integrity, the E6601A significantly lowers the cost of mobile phone manufacturing testing.

Agilent Technologies Inc.,
Palo Alto, CA (800) 829-4444,
www.agilent.com.

VNA Hardware and Software

The NM100 VNA+ is a combination of software and hardware, running on top of a VNA and allows the characterization of the harmonic behavior of high frequency components, including diodes, transistors and power amplifiers. On top of the regular capabilities of the VNA, the NM100 measures, in a calibrated way, the incident and reflected waves or voltages and currents at the ports of a component. During measurements, it is submitted to ‘realistic conditions’ via a periodic harmonic-related stimulus, possibly in combination with tuners. The software includes a user-friendly graphical interface that allows visualization of data in time as well as in the frequency domain. The NM100 supports a frequency range from 600 MHz up to 20 GHz.

NMDG Engineering,
Bornem, Belgium +32 3 890 46 12,
www.nmdg.be.

Real-time Spectrum Analyzer

The RSA6100A series of real-time spectrum analyzers provides an excellent combination of real-time performance, capture bandwidth and dynamic range to meet the needs of a broad range of digital RF applications. DPX™ waveform image processor technology transforms volumes of real-time data to produce a live RF spectrum presentation that reveals previously unseen RF signals and signal anomalies. Test instruments for digital RF require wide bandwidth with high dynamic range, fast signal capture, and the ability to fully correlate the time, frequency and modulation domains. The first offerings in the RSA6100A series of real-time spectrum analyzers provide 110 MHz real-time bandwidth simultaneous with 73 dB spurious-free dynamic range.

Tektronix Inc.,
Beaverton, OR (800) 835-9433,
www.tektronix.com.