RF switch delivers strong isolation qualities

The switch is suitable for the demanding rigors of applications such as telecom infrastructure, microwave radios, test instrumentation and space.

As with all UltraCmos silicon-on-sapphire ICs, the PE95420 offers a superior isolation and insertion loss, making it appropriate for applications such as switch matrix, antenna array, and any RF communication system requiring hermetically sealed ceramic package performance in high temperature, high humidity or radiation environments.

The PE95420 is an absorptive, non-reflective switch that utilises Peregrine's Harp design methodology, which the company said enables exceptional RF performance.

Features of the switch include: an input IP3 of +60dBm at 6500MHz for increased data rates; low insertion loss of 0.8dB at 100MHz and 1.7dB at 8500MHz; high isolation of +82dB at 100MHz and +33dB at 8500MHz; and a compression point of +33dBm at 6500MHz for high power signal paths.

The SPDT incorporates a single-pin 3.3V Cmos logic control that lowers the number of control lines, reducing the signal routing and potential failures in a system.

The PE95420 will be offered in the seven-lead hermetic surface-mount CSOIC and in die form.

Engineering samples are expected to be available in February 2009.