Waveguide Switch
DPDT latching waveguide switches, 24 V DC, WR-137 to WR-10 (5.85-110 GHz), insertion loss from 0.1 dB and isolation to 60 dB. Custom bands & flanges, quotes in 24 h.
High-Performance Waveguide Switches for Fast and Repeatable RF Routing
AO Microwave’s precision electromechanical and manual waveguide switches are designed to route high-frequency RF signals between multiple ports with high isolation and speed. Fabricated from premium aluminum and copper alloys, our switches feature high-durability solenoid actuators, self-locking mechanisms, and micro-switch position indicators. Supporting standard bands up to 110 GHz (WR-90 to WR-10) in SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) and DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw) configurations, these switches deliver an outstanding port isolation of typically > 60 dB, low insertion loss (typically < 0.15 dB), and a phase repeatability of < 0.05° over a long operational lifespan.
By utilizing precisely machined rotary or shutter-type internal junctions, our switches provide consistent path transitions. They are critical for transmitter antenna redundancy, multi-band receiver routing, and automated laboratory test equipment (ATE) setups.
| Part No | Frequency/GHz | VSWR (Max) | IL/dB (Max) | Isolation/dB (Min) | Switching Time/ms (Max) | Flange Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AO137-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 5.85-8.20 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UDR70 |
| AO112-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 7.05-10.0 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UBR84 |
| AO90-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 8.20-12.4 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UBR100 |
| AO75-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 10.0-15.0 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UBR120 |
| AO62-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 12.4-18.0 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UBR140 |
| AO51-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 15.0-22.0 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UBR180 |
| AO42-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 18.0-26.5 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 60 | 50 | UBR220 |
| AO34-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 22.0-33.0 | 1.15 | 0.15 | 60 | 50 | UBR260 |
| AO28-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 26.5-40.0 | 1.15 | 0.15 | 55 | 50 | UBR320 |
| AO22-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 33.0-50.0 | 1.2 | 0.3 | 50 | 50 | UG-383/U |
| AO19-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 40.0-60.0 | 1.2 | 0.3 | 50 | 50 | UG383/UM |
| AO15-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 50.0-75.0 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 50 | 50 | UG385/U |
| AO12-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 60.0-90.0 | 1.25 | 0.5 | 50 | 50 | UG-387/U |
| AO10-WS-DPDT24V-PAAE | 75.0-110.0 | 1.25 | 0.6 | 50 | 50 | UG387/UM |
Understanding Switching Repeatability & Actuator Control
Waveguide switches rely on mechanical rotary junctions to route RF signals. When switching between ports, maintaining tight phase and amplitude repeatability is essential.
If the mechanical actuator has small tolerances or experiences physical wear, the internal rotor can misalign, which can degrade port isolation and VSWR. AO Microwave uses a self-locking electromechanical actuator to lock the rotor securely in position. This rigid mechanical alignment ensures a phase repeatability of < 0.05° across millions of switching cycles.
Target Applications & Operational Advantages
By providing fast switching speed and high port-to-port isolation, our waveguide switches deliver critical performance in active systems:
Antenna Redundancy Switching
Function: Switches high-power transmitters between primary and backup antennas or dummy loads.
Advantage: Self-locking latching actuators maintain the switched state without continuous control power, ensuring system reliability.
Automated Test Equipment (ATE)
Function: Switches microwave signals between multiple test instruments and devices under test (DUT).
Advantage: Exceptional phase and amplitude repeatability minimize systematic calibration drift, reducing measurement downtime.
Multi-Band Receiver Routing
Function: Switches received signals between low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) operating in different bands.
Advantage: High port-to-port isolation (>60 dB) prevents high-power transmit signals from leaking into and damaging sensitive receiver channels.
Waveguide Switch FAQs
Ordering, Lead Time & Trade Terms
| Stocked items | Ships in 2-3 working days |
| Standard configurations | 3-4 weeks |
| Custom builds | 4-6 weeks; complex high-power or multi-band assemblies 6-8 weeks |
| MOQ | None on standard models. Custom variants may carry a 50-100 pcs MOQ, always confirmed upfront in the quote |
| Trade terms | FOB Xi'an (typical), EXW Xi'an or C&F available on request |
| Shipping | DHL / FedEx / UPS express worldwide; air freight for oversize and high-power assemblies |
Every inquiry receives a firm quote with a full datasheet within 24 hours. Tell us your band, configuration and control interface - we will confirm the exact lead time for your application.
Need high-performance Waveguide Switches?
Specify your WR size, configuration (SPDT/DPDT), control logic (Latching/Failsafe), voltage, and flange style — we'll quote in 24 hours.
