PXI RF Switches Beat 2.1 dB Insertion Loss

April 12, 2007
To help engineers optimize their RF switch networks, 11 PXI RF switches have been spawned. The modules, which target 50- and 75-Ω RF applications, include 4 X 1, terminated 4 X 1, dual 4 X 1, and 8 X 1 multiplexers as well as quad single-pole, ...

To help engineers optimize their RF switch networks, 11 PXI RF switches have been spawned. The modules, which target 50- and 75-Ω RF applications, include 4 X 1, terminated 4 X 1, dual 4 X 1, and 8 X 1 multiplexers as well as quad single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) and dual-terminated SPDT general-purpose configurations. All 11 modules offer insertion loss of less than 2.1 dB at the specified bandwidth. Their voltage-standing wave ratio (VSWR) is less than 1.75:1 across the full bandwidth. The modules also offer relay count tracking. With this feature, engineers can keep track of relay closures on board the hardware. They can estimate the lifetime of individual relays on the module and avoid unexpected system downtime. The six 2.5-GHz, 75-Ω modules target high-frequency video applications, such as set-top-box testing. The five 2.7-GHz, 50-Ω modules are well suited for routing signals between DC and 26.5 GHz. They also can be used to expand the channel count of RF generators or analyzers. Engineers can program all of the new switches using the NI-SWITCH driver software for basic relay operations in common development environments. The switch modules are priced from $1099.

National Instruments, 11500 N. Mopac Expwy., Austin, TX 78759-3504; (800) 258-7022, FAX: (512) 683-9300, Internet: www.ni.com

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About the Author

Nancy Friedrich | RF Product Marketing Manager for Aerospace Defense, Keysight Technologies

Nancy Friedrich is RF Product Marketing Manager for Aerospace Defense at Keysight Technologies. Nancy Friedrich started a career in engineering media about two decades ago with a stint editing copy and writing news for Electronic Design. A few years later, she began writing full time as technology editor at Wireless Systems Design. In 2005, Nancy was named editor-in-chief of Microwaves & RF, a position she held (along with other positions as group content head) until 2018. Nancy then moved to a position at UBM, where she was editor-in-chief of Design News and content director for tradeshows including DesignCon, ESC, and the Smart Manufacturing shows.

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