A new coaxial connector optimized for E-band frequencies up to 90 GHz has emerged from a joint development effort involving four German entities, and that connector has been pressed into service by one of the four, Rohde & Schwarz, for use in a pair of thermal power sensors.
Emerging applications for automotive radar from 76 to 81 GHz, plus the WiGig extension (IEEE 802.11ay) operating up to 71 GHz, highlighted the need for a novel, robust coaxial connector suitable for industrial applications at frequencies up to 90 GHz. The development was carried out Germany's national metrology institute, the Physikalisch-Technische-Bundesanstalt (PTB); Rohde & Schwarz; Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik; and Spinner Group.
The E connector closes the gap between the well-established 1.85-mm V-band connector and the 1.00-mm W-band connector. The V-band connector was introduced more than 30 years ago and is suitably robust for industrial applications; however, it is restricted to a maximum frequency of 70 GHz. While the W-band connector supports a maximum frequency of 110 GHz, it requires fine mechanical accuracy during assembly and frequently loosens in use.
The 1.35-mm connector sports a precise metric fine thread, a reliable pin-gap, and an integrated groove for optional push-pull locking. The design was accepted in 2019 for the next edition of the IEEE 287-2007 for precision coaxial connectors, and also by the IEC, which will publish it as the IEC 61169-65.
Rohde & Schwarz has implemented the E connector for the first time in a test-and-measurement instrument in the company’s NRP90T and NRP90TN thermal power sensors for frequencies up to 90 GHz. Like all other members of the family, the new models feature both high accuracy and high measurement speed. The R&S NRPxxT power sensors operate locally, connected to a PC, selected Rohde & Schwarz instruments, or an R&S NRX base unit. The R&S NRPxxTN sensors can also be operated remotely via a LAN.
Rohde & Schwarz, www.rohde-schwarz.com