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Vendors » What is RF Isolator : Selection Guide & Top Manufacturers

What is RF Isolator : Selection Guide & Top Manufacturers

An RF isolator is a passive microwave component that allows radio frequency signals to pass in one direction while blocking reflections in the opposite direction. It protects sensitive transmitters, amplifiers, and RF circuits from signal reflections, improving system performance and reliability in communication, radar, aerospace, defense, and test applications.

These isolators are available for use in various wireless technologies including WLAN, Zigbee, WiMAX, LTE, VSAT, and cellular. Isolators are available in different types such as drop-in, coaxial, and waveguide designs. Some are narrowband, while others are broadband.

WLAN devices operate on 2.4, 3.6, and 5 GHz frequency bands. WiMAX utilizes 3 to 3.6 GHz, 2.3 to 2.4 GHz, 2.5 to 2.7 GHz, and 5.8 GHz. Zigbee uses 868/915 MHz and 2450 MHz. LTE operates on frequency bands similar to GSM/CDMA/HSPA, such as 800 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2600 MHz. VSAT supports C and Ku frequency bands.

Typical RF Isolator specifications include:

  1. Frequency range
  2. Isolation
  3. Insertion Loss
  4. VSWR
  5. Connector type

rf isolator

Source: wikimedia commons, showing both isolator (2 port) and circulator (3 port)

Here’s a list of popular RF isolator manufacturers and some of their products:

M/A COM Technology Solutions

  • Model: 7R195T isolator
  • Application: GSM
  • Frequency Range: 860 to 960 MHz
  • Website: www.macomtech.com

Ditom

Wenteq

Trak Microwave Company

  • Model: T3035/DB
  • Frequency: 3 to 3.5GHz
  • Model: T105113/DD (Broadband Range)
  • Frequency: 10.5 - 11.3 GHz
  • Email: sales@trak.com
  • Website: www.trak.com

Novamicro

VIDA RF

  • Model: VCI-3742
  • Application: C band VSAT
  • Frequency Range: 3.7 to 4.2 GHz
  • Model: VCI-5865
  • Frequency Range: 5.8-6.5 GHz
  • Model: VCI-130145
  • Frequency Range: 13 to 14.5 GHz
  • Email: sales@vidarf.com
  • Website: www.vidarf.com

Channel Microwave

Summary

An RF isolator is a one-way RF device that prevents reflected signals from damaging sensitive electronic equipment. Leading manufacturers provide RF isolators for wireless communications, radar systems, satellite networks, aerospace electronics, and microwave testing applications.

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rf isolator rf component frequency range wireless technology vendor