Equalizers are used to alter the performance of signal chains. In some cases, that means linearizing signal chain performance. In other cases, equalizers are used to introduce nonlinearities. As a result, equalizer designs vary widely from simple passive circuits to complex multi-stage designs and active circuits. This FAQ reviews equalizer basics, looks at equalizers for […]
Telecommunications
What’s a logarithmic resistor ladder good for?
A logarithmic resistor ladder consists of a resistor string and switches designed to attenuate a signal. The state of the switches can be considered to represent a digital code proportional to the logarithm of the attenuation ratio. Logarithmic attenuation is useful when a large dynamic range is needed. Audio volume control and fading/balancing audio signals […]
Ka-band phased-array satellite antenna meets CS25 and CS27 needs
ThinKom Solutions, Inc. unveiled a new Ka-band phased-array satellite antenna for communications-on-the-move (COTM) applications. The new ThinSat Ka500, based on ThinKom’s proven VICTS technology, is a “turnkey” terminal that enables the user to easily and quickly connect to the network of their choice, such as the existing and new Ka-band networks being deployed using satellites in geostationary […]
What are reflectionless filters? Part 1: context
Standard filters reflect unwanted stopband energy, but reflectionless filters present a seamless impedance across both stopband and passband which greatly improves performance of the RF signal chain. Filters are an inherent, inescapable, necessary component in electrical and electronic circuits. Modern systems would be impractical and likely impossible without filters, whether at low frequencies down to […]
Notch filters boast built-in ESD protection function
TDK Corporation announces the release of its newly developed AVRF041A150MT242 and AVRF061D2R4ST532 notch filters with ESD protection function. Volume production of these devices will begin in March 2022. The new notch filters are compliant with the IEC61000-4-2 Level 4 immunity standard. They are well suited to ensuring EMC requirements are met in the audio circuits […]
Fail-safe hermetic SPDT relays handle up to 40 GHz signals
Teledyne Relays announces a new wide temperature range, hermetic relays operating up to 18 GHz. The new RF131 and GRF131 single-pole double-throw (SPDT) models are non-latching, offering fail-safe functionality. The new products expand rugged options available to key RF test and telecommunications markets. The RF131 and GRF131 non-latching models complement the widely respected equivalent through-hole […]
Optical links for spacecraft, Part 2: Projects and progress
Using laser-sourced light beams rather than wireless RF to link spacecraft with Earth offers the possibility of a significant increase in data rates. Still, there are significant technical challenges to the concept. The previous part of the article established the need for higher-speed data links to spacecraft and their missions and looked at some of […]
Optical links for spacecraft, Part 1: The throughput limitation
Using laser-sourced light beams rather than wireless RF to link spacecraft with Earth offers the possibility of a significant increase in data rates. Still, there are significant technical challenges to the concept. Scientists, engineers, and researchers communicating with spacecraft have a problem: there’s so much data coming from these spacecraft – and to send to […]
Dual-band WiFi antennas optimized for 2.4GHz and 5GHz applications
AVX Corporation released a new series of IP67-rated, external, dual-band Wi-Fi antennas optimized for 2.4GHz and 5GHz applications. The new X9001748 Series external, dual-band Wi-Fi antennas have a standardized, ready-to-use, RoHS-compliant design with IP67 sealing for reliable outdoor operation and provide high-gain, high-efficiency, and high-reliability performance in low- and high-band applications with a variety of device configurations and […]
Automotive-grade polymer chip caps exhibit low DCL, benign failure mode
AVX Corporation released the new TCO Series high-temperature, automotive-grade polymer chip capacitors, which are rated for operating temperatures up to 150°C at category voltage and meet AEC-Q200 Stress Test Qualification for Passive Components requirements, which ensure stable performance at 85°C, 85% relative humidity, and rated voltage for up to 1,000 hours. Based on AVX’s field-proven TCQ Series automotive […]
