What is a Waveguide Switch?
A waveguide switch is an RF switch with waveguide interface(s) used to route signals from an input path to one or more outputs. These switches have high reliability and have higher power ratings compared to coaxial connectors options. Waveguide switches operate in the GHz range and are ideal for use in switching applications of millimeter-wave systems in microwave communications, broadcasting, radar applications, and many more applications.
There are two types of waveguide switch designs:
- Electromechanical (solenoid-operated): They use mechanical contacts to route RF signals. These switches are available in manual or motor-controlled options and support remote operation. The motorized switch is designed for unattended operations but can be manually operated in the event of power interruptions.
- Solid-state design: They are based on a solid-state switching device such as a PIN diode.
Important Parameters When Looking for Waveguide Switches:
- Operating Frequency: It is the operating frequency range for which the device is fully functional or provides the best performance.
- Interface: Represents the type of waveguide switch interface. These switches are available in both waveguide-to-waveguide interface and waveguide to co-axial interface options.
- Configurations: Represents the configurations of the waveguide switch such as SPST, SPDT, DPDT, SP3T, SP4T, SP6T, etc.
- Isolation: This represents the separation of signal levels on adjacent ports of the waveguide switch and is expressed in dB.
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