Coaxial Relays

Coaxial Relays

Coaxial relays are electronic switches used in radio frequency (RF) applications to switch between different signal paths. They are designed to allow the transfer of RF energy from one circuit to another, while maintaining a constant impedance throughout the switching process. Coaxial relays are commonly used in radio communication systems, test equipment, and other applications where high-frequency signals need to be switched. The construction of coaxial relays consists of a hollow cylindrical center conductor surrounded by an outer conductor, with a dielectric material in between. The center conductor is connected to a movable contact, which is connected to one of the signal paths. The outer conductor is connected to a stationary contact, which is connected to the other signal path. When the relay is activated, the movable contact is brought into contact with the stationary contact, allowing the RF energy to flow from one circuit to the other. Coaxial relays are available in various configurations, including single-pole, double-throw (SPDT), double-pole, double-throw (DPDT), and multi-pole, multi-throw (MPMT). They can handle a wide range of RF frequencies, from a few kilohertz to several gigahertz, and can handle high power levels. One of the advantages of coaxial relays is their low insertion loss, which means that they do not significantly attenuate the RF signal when switching between circuits. They also have a high isolation between the signal paths, which means that there is minimal leakage of RF energy from one circuit to the other. In summary, coaxial relays are electronic switches used in RF applications to switch between different signal paths. They are designed to maintain a constant impedance throughout the switching process, and are available in various configurations to handle a wide range of RF frequencies and power levels.

RF, impedance, signal paths, insertion loss, isolation

— Kevin Johnson