Quantic Wenzel, a company that has set the standard for advanced frequency sources and integrated microwave assemblies to 30 GHz and beyond, has developed a range of Blue Tops RF modules that form the building block for RF systems. Each module contains all the components required to achieve a given function integrated into a single, compact aluminum case. The Blue Tops Series includes amplifiers, multipliers, dividers and phase lock loops modules, mixers, filters, splitters and power level detectors, most with fast deliveries and low cost.
These modules are verified with state-of-the-art phase noise performance and exceptionally low harmonic and spurious content, enabling system designers to quickly configure frequency-generating systems with low noise outputs up to 16 GHz.
RF Components Developed by Quantic Wenzel for Blue Tops RF Modules
Directional Coupler (LNDC): The LNDC is a standard coupler which is integrated with a low noise amplifier on the coupled port for added output power and port-to-port isolation. A wide selection of amplifiers and customized input/output attenuators provide flexibility in setting gain and power levels. The integrated design makes the LNDC module an excellent space saving option, eliminating the need for an external amplifier and splitter.
Part Number | Input Frequency (in MHz) | Coupling Value (in dB) |
| 10 | 10 |
| 10 | 10 |
| 10 | 7 |
| 100 | 13 |
| 100 | 13 |
| 100 | 15 |
| 1000 | 13 |
| 1000 | 13 |
| 1000 | 10 |
Low Noise Integrated Mixer (LNIMX): The LNIMX module is an integrated mixer module which incorporates a low noise mixer, band-pass and low-pass filters and low noise amplifiers, providing a space saving solution for combining two RF signals. The standard low noise mixer is the M/A Com M8TH, but other mixers options are available. The user can select the desired signal by following the unfiltered output with the appropriate customer provided filter. Many internal amplifier options are available and will be selected based on the input signal frequencies, input signal levels and phase noise performance.
Low Noise Mixer (LNMX): The LNMX mixer consists of a commercial TO-8 or surface mount mixer and selected attenuators on each port. The standard mixer is the M8TH mixer from M/A Com, but other mixers are available upon request. The integral pads make it easy to adjust the mixer levels for optimum performance without additional costly external attenuators.
Phase Locked Loop (LNPLL): The LNPLL is a phase lock loop module that simplifies phase locking two low noise signals of the same frequency within the 5 MHz to 150 MHz operating range. The module is comprised of a low noise phase detector, a high performance loop amplifier, lock and rail detectors and a low noise voltage regulator, all integrated into a single package. Type 1 or Type 2 loop configurations are available and can be configured with loop bandwidths from 0.1 Hz to 1 kHz, depending on the tuning sensitivity of the VCO.
Low Noise Power Splitter (LNPS): The LNPS module is a standard splitter that can be customized with input/output attenuators to provide flexibility in setting gain and input/output power levels. This module is ideal for applications requiring 2-way signal distribution, and works well with Wenzel oscillators and other Blue Tops modules.
Low Noise Signal Translator (LNST): The LNST is a signal translator module which can be configured to convert a sine wave signal to square wave or square wave signal to sine wave. A differential LVDS option is also available with outputs provided on solder pins. The LNST module works well when combined with Wenzel oscillators and other Blue Tops modules. Other signal translator configurations may be available including various logic family conversions and packaging options.
Low Noise Voltage Regulator (LNVR): The LNVR module is a low noise voltage regulator designed to provide excellent power supply spurious rejection when clean DC voltage is required for modules used in low noise applications. The compact modular package is designed for use in sub-systems and instruments, but can be used for bench top applications as well.
Through-Line Power Detector (TLPD): The TLPD is a broadband through-line power level detector suitable for monitoring the input or output levels of frequency sources from 5 MHz to 2 GHz. This module features a directional coupler combined with either an accurate true RMS power detector or a window comparator for implementing a TTL compatible alarm function.
Click here to learn more about Blue Top RF Modules from Quantic Wenzel.
