Modelithics, Inc. announces version 23.2.2 of the Modelithics MACOM GaN Library is now available. With this latest version, the library now includes a total of twelve (12) models for MACOM PURE CARBIDE GaN devices. Version 23.2.2 of the Modelithics MACOM GaN Library introduces new models for three (3) MACOM GaN devices for the MACOM MAPC-A1508…
How RF measurements verify satellite links
Noise measurement, LO substitution, receiver stress testing, power measurement, CCDF and PAPR characterization, and antenna-pattern measurement play critical roles in link budget, bit-error rate, and SNR requirements. Low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems are being deployed for mission-critical use cases at an accelerating rate. This brings associated critical test requirements that, if not performed accurately, could…
EE World’s 2023 communications handbook is here
Our 2023 5G, Wired, & Wireless Handbook is now available in ebook form. Download your copy today. It started on a cold January day with an editorial call. A month later, the abstracts came in. After another month, the manuscripts came in. Then came the editing and some back-and-forth with the authors. Next, it was…
5G mmWave test builds on RF best practices
The high level of integration in today’s mmWave phone means traditional test methods no longer apply.
Voltage and TTL-controlled attenuators reduce RF signal power
Pasternack has launched a new line of voltage-controlled analog attenuators and TTL programmable attenuators. These new models offer comprehensive frequency coverage from 1 MHz to 50 GHz and are designed to provide precise and reliable signal attenuation for a variety of applications. Pasternack’s new voltage-controlled analog attenuators offer a broad attenuation range of up to…
5G mmWave signal chain: the phase-locked loop
In “Look inside the 5G mmWave signal chain,” we explored the overall architecture of the mmWave signal chain. Now, we’ll look deeper into each of a transceiver’s components. Phase-locked Loops (PLL) are important blocks for a clean reference clock generation in cellular networks. In 5G mmWave radio networks, the PLL supports data rates of 1…
External GPU digitally down converts captured RF signals
Spectrum Instrumentation’s complete line of PCIe digitizer cards can now perform Digital Down Conversion (DDC) thanks to a low-cost option for $390 that uses an external GPU card for continuous “on-the-fly” processing. DDC is a powerful technique that is commonly used in a wide range of communication systems, like digital radio, radar, mobile telephony, and…
PPI adds smallest 100 nF RF capacitors
Passive Plus (PPI) has expanded its Broadband Capacitor line to include the industry’s smallest .010”x.005” Broadband part characterized for RF performance. The 01005BB104 series has been expanded and a new part is now offered with a 10V Rating. The 01005BB104MW100 (100nF) Broadband multilayer ceramic capacitor specifications. Typical Applications include Optoelectronics / high-speed data, ROSA/TOSA (Transmit /…
Semi-rigid RF cable and connector line widens
Fairview Microwave has expanded its offering of semi-rigid cable assemblies and connectors designed to negate the need for any custom tooling or jigs in the production process. This new series of semi-rigid cable assemblies feature superior shielding compared to their flexible counterparts. Their solid outer conductor semi-rigid coax design guarantees their forms are reliably held after bending,…
5G repeaters to debut at MWC 2023
In the days leading up to MWC, Airgain, a company that produces embedded components, external antennas, and integrated systems, announced Lighthouse smart repeaters. Airgain said that the repeaters can significantly reduce an operator’s capital expenses for extending range while enhancing 5G coverage and improving customer experience. The repeaters use two Wi-Fi radios, one dedicated to…