Entries by JFW Eng Dept

What is a RF transfer switch?

A transfer switch is a unique type of RF switch.  Most RF switches have a single common port that switches between several ports i.e. 1P2T, 1P3T, 1P8T.  The transfer switch does not have a single common port.  Instead a transfer switch has 4 ports with two thru paths.  The thru paths can be vertical like […]

How do I choose a RF switch?

When choosing a RF switch, you must first determine which type of switch best suits your application.  There are electro-mechanical switches and solid-state switches.  Both types of switches perform the same function (i.e. route RF signals), but each have key differences in RF performance.  Below we list a description of each type of RF switch […]

How does a non-blocking matrix switch work?

A non-blocking matrix switch is constructed with power dividers and RF switches. The power dividers provide the functionality that make this design non-blocking. The power dividers fan-out the RF signal so that it is available for multiple simultaneous connections. If an input port is already connected to an output port, it is not blocked from […]

4X4 Blocking Matrix Switch | DC-26.5 GHz

Model 50MS-455 is an 4X4 blocking matrix switch.  All unused ports are absorptive (i.e. self-terminating into 50 Ohm).  It is available with 3.5mm female connectors.  The matrix is constructed using switches on both halves of the matrix.  Each input port can be set to only one output port at a time.  A 4X4 blocking matrix […]

How does a blocking matrix switch work?

Think of a blocking matrix switch as an assembly that is built with an “input port” half and an “output port” half. Whether you use RF switches or power dividers to build each half determines how the matrix switch distributes the signals through the matrix. For a blocking matrix switch both halves are constructed using […]

Fixed Attenuators: How to reduce port VSWR?

Problem: If several 50 Ohm RF components are combined in series, the VSWR of each component adds together resulting in much higher output VSWR.  Often is the case when cabling together components such as power splitters, RF switches and directional couplers. Solution: Use a 50 Ohm fixed attenuator at the output port to mask the […]

Fixed Attenuators: Which dB value to select?

Fixed attenuators are used to decrease the power level of a RF signal.  You can use the linked selection chart to look up your dB value or calculate the dB value.  You only need to know your input power and desired output power level. Selection Chart: The selection chart lists output power levels for standard […]

Step Attenuator Kit with USB Control | 200-6000MHz

Model 50P-2014 SMA is JFW’s most popular step attenuator kit with USB control. It has attenuation range 0-95dB x 1dB steps.  The attenuator can be used bi-directionally. Step Attenuator Kit Includes: 1 step attenuator (data sheet & drawing) Software for attenuator control Software manual 1 USB cable Attenuator: 0-95dB x 1dB steps 200-6000MHz 50 Ohm […]

Choosing the Right Programmable Attenuator for Receiver Sensitivity Tests

JFW’s own Bryan Walker had the privilege of being selected to be on the cover of the Microwave Journal (October 2023, Vol. 66, No. 10).  Bryan’s article titled “Choosing the Right Programmable Attenuator for Receiver Sensitivity Tests” was the featured cover article that month. Highlights of the article: Receiver sensitivity testing primer The role of […]