Waveguide Switch
Waveguide Switch enables high-power RF signal routing between multiple waveguide paths. Used in radar systems, satellite communication networks, microwave transmitters and automated RF test equipment.
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
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.
