What is RF Phase Shifter : Benefits & Top Manufacturers

An RF phase shifter is a component that changes the phase angle of an RF signal without significantly affecting its amplitude. Phase shifters are widely used in phased-array antennas, radar systems, satellite communications, beamforming networks, and microwave test applications requiring precise signal control.

An RF phase shifter, also known as an RF phase trimmer, is a device that shifts the phase of an input signal.

Selection Parameters for RF Phase Shifter

• Phase Shift Range: Determines the extent of phase adjustment required (e.g., 0 to 360 degrees or discrete steps such as 90 or 180 degrees).
• Frequency Range: The shifter must support the desired operating frequency range of the application.
• Insertion Loss: Should be as minimal as possible to preserve signal strength.
• Phase Resolution: Higher resolution allows for finer phase control, improving system performance in beamforming and signal processing applications.
• Control Type: Can be analog, digital, or voltage-controlled, depending on the required precision and integration needs.
• Other Parameters: Include power handling capability, linearity, and noise figure, all of which impact overall performance.

Applications of RF Phase Shifter

• Phased Array Antennas: Widely used in radar, 5G, and satellite communication systems for beamforming and directional signal control.
• Wireless Communication Systems: Employed in MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) systems, beam steering, and adaptive antenna systems for efficient data transmission.
• Radar & Defense Electronics: Enhances target detection and tracking capabilities in both military and automotive radar applications.
• Test & Measurement Equipment: Integrated into RF signal analyzers and vector network analyzers for precise phase control and calibration purposes.
• Microwave and Millimeter Wave Systems: Utilized in high-frequency applications such as 6G research, satellite links, and microwave imaging.

Manufacturers of RF Phase Shifter

The following table lists prominent manufacturers or vendors of RF Phase Trimmers or Shifters:

RF Phase Trimmer Manufacturers	Description
RLC Electronics	Manufactures and delivers RF phase trimmers ranging from DC to 50GHz. Achieves a nominal phase shift of approximately 1.2 degrees/GHz/Turn at 50 GHz (with 7 turns). E-mail: sales@rlcelectronics.com
Pasternack Enterprises Inc.	Manufactures adjustable phase trimmers covering the DC to 18 GHz frequency range. Offers adjustment capabilities of about 10 degrees per GHz. E-mail: sales@pasternack.com
L-3 Narda-ATM (Formerly Advanced Technical Materials Inc.)	Offers fixed RF Phase shifters for various phase shifts (e.g., 30, 40, 60, 90, 180, and 360 degrees). Various models are available from DC to 40 GHz. Website: www.atmmicrowave.com
Centric RF	Provides models supporting 0 to 2.3 GHz and 0 to 18.6 GHz frequency ranges with a phase shift of 60 degrees per GHz. Offers SMA Coaxial type RF Phase Trimmers supporting 0 to 18 GHz and phase shifts up to 270 Degrees. E-mail: sales@centricrf.com
Cobham (Now Aeroflex)	Supports RF frequencies from 1GHz to 18 GHz. Phase of the signal is varied by adjusting a screw.
Fairview Microwave	Offers adjustable RF phase trimmers with adjustable phase angles such as 3.5 deg/GHz, 10 deg/GHz, and 30 deg/GHz. Supports RF frequencies from DC to 18 GHz and up to 40 GHz. Email: sales@fairviewmicrowave.com
Federal Custom Cable	Provides Phase Trimmers from DC to 18 GHz with SMA-type connectors.
API Technologies	Offers RF phase shifters operating from DC to 40 GHz.
JYEBAO Co., Ltd. Taiwan	Provides various phase adjustable phase trimmers (up to 350 MHz, 10 GHz, 12 GHz, and 18 GHz).
dBD Communications	Offers various types of phase trimmers, including models for 18 GHz to 26 GHz and 18 GHz to 40 GHz. Email: SALES@DBDCOMMUNICATIONS.CO.UK
Radiall	Offers SMA-type phase shifters operating from 0 to 18 GHz.

Summary

An RF phase shifter adjusts signal phase for beam steering and signal processing applications. Manufacturers offer phase shifters for phased-array radar, satellite communication, 5G beamforming, and RF test systems.