Six-channel micro-mechanical switch extends life for RF and microwave
Designed to deliver more than three billion switching cycles at elevated +85 degrees C temperatures for RF, microwave and DC applications in the defence, aerospace, scientific, medical, industrial and telecomms sectors, the MM3100 switch by Menlo Microsystems is now available from Link Microtek.
The high-power six-channel single pole, single throw (SPST) micro-mechanical switch has an operating frequency range from DC to greater than 3GHz, with each of its six switches capable of handling up to 25W RF power (CW) at 3GHz. The MM3100 features DC ratings of ±150V and 1.0A for each switch with on resistance up to 0.75 Ohm. Channels can be combined to increase DC ratings.
On/off switching time is less than 10 microseconds, channel-to-channel isolation is specified as 25dB at 3GHz, and a low on-state insertion loss of typically 0.3dB at 3GHz helps to enhance system performance and maintain high data rates, assure Link Microtek.
The switches are individually controlled by a standard serial peripheral interface (SPI) synchronous bus, while an external +5V DC logic supply and +77V DC bias source are required for operation of the internal switch driver.
The MM3100 is configurable, which allows it to be used in a variety of different application circuits, including tuneable resonators and filters, impedance matching for broadband power amplifiers, electronically steerable antennae and phase shifters, and automated test and measurement systems.
The MM3100 switch is fabricated using Menlo Micro’s proprietary metal-on-glass DMS (Digital-Micro-Switch) process technology. The robust switch is housed in a hermetic 6.0 x 6.0 x 1.3mm BGA package and has an operating temperature range of -40 to +85 degrees C.
A test and evaluation board kit, MM3100-EVK, is available complete with a USB interface cable to provide the necessary bias voltage and SPI bus data.
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