RF switching and signal level control in automated RF testing

In automated RF testing, signals often need to be switched between test equipment and the device under test, while their levels are adjusted. With multiple test paths, this can result in a complex setup with many individual components. Switch and attenuator boxes combine these functions in a single 19-inch enclosure.

The new models from Ranatec are:

• RF2035 – 12 individually adjustable attenuator channels, 100 MHz–8 GHz, 1 dB steps and up to 96 dB attenuation.
• RF2036 – 8 individually adjustable attenuator channels, 100 MHz–8 GHz, 1 dB steps and up to 96 dB attenuation.
• RF2037 – 4× SP6T and two terminated SPDT switches, DC–26.5 GHz, maximum 46 dBm.
• RF2038 – 6× electromechanical SPDT switches, DC–6 GHz, maximum 53 dBm and <0.3 dB insertion loss at 6 GHz.

The switch boxes can be controlled via a web interface or API. The attenuator boxes are intended for setting RF power levels in transmitter, receiver and system testing, among other applications.

The products can be used for MIMO, WLAN, Bluetooth, production testing and compliance testing. Ranatec also supplies RF switches, attenuators, filters and shielded test setups.