What is a Power Divider?
RF Power Dividers or power splitters are passive RF devices that split an input signal into two or more output signals with minimal losses. Power dividers are widely used in wireless systems to divide power equally across the system. The output signals that are generated by the power divider are usually of equal amplitude and phase however based on the requirement dividers can vary the amplitude and phase of the signals at the output. These are called unequal power dividers.
Key Specifications:
Configuration: This is the number of ways the input signal is split by the power divider like 2 Way, 3 Way, 4 Way....N Way.
Power (W): This is the average input power that the divider can handle.
Insertion Loss (dB): The signal lost when one signal is converted into multiple signals is called insertion loss, it is measured in dB.
Amplitude and Phase Balance: Amplitude balance is a measure of how evenly the power is split between the outputs of an n-way power divider. Phase balance is a measure of the differential phase shift between the output signals of the power divider.
Isolation (dB): This would be the output port-to-port isolation. It is represented in dB. The higher the isolation the better.
Package Type: Power Dividers are available in a number of packages. Some of the package types include - Module with Connectors, Surface Mount, Plug-In, Flat Pack and Drop-In. Modules with connectors have multiple connector options like SMA, N Type, K Type, BNC, TNC etc.
Impedance: Power Dividers are usually available in 50 Ohm and 75 Ohm configurations.
Power dividers from over 100 manufacturers are listed on everything RF. Use the parametric search tool to find a power divider based on your requirement. Once you find a product that matches your needs, you can download datasheets, request quotations and compare products.
