Engineering Resources
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A Practical Introduction to RF/Microwave Balanced Amplifiers and Their Applications
Learn the basics of how balanced amplifiers (a.k.a. quadrature combined pairs) operate, their advantages and common applications.
High Frequency Signal Conditioning for Your Test Setup
We continue to expand our selection of USB- and Ethernet-controlled programmable attenuators for high frequency test applications, and the RCDAT-44G-63 is the latest addition to the family.
Ultra-Wideband MMIC LNA with Adjustable Gain
Mini-Circuits’ new AVA-0233LN+ is a GaAs pHEMT MMIC low noise amplifier with a wide operating frequency range from 2 to 30 GHz. This model achieves typical noise figure of 2.4 dB with characteristic performance
eVNA-63+ Vector Network Analyzer: Overview
Mini-Circuits' eVNA-63+ is a high performance, software-controlled 2-port vector network analyzer (VNA) operating from 300 kHz to 6 GHz. By moving the complex data processing and calculation required of vector network measurements out of the instrument and into an advanced software package, Mini-Circuits is able to offer a fully-featured but cost effective VNA for every test bench.
SP4T Solid State Switch
Mini-Circuits’ new ZSW4-E673+ solid-state SP4T switch covers the 10 MHz to 67 GHz frequency range, making it ideal for test setups supporting a wide range of application bands from VHF to 5G FR2 (n257 - n262). Its compact size (1.48” x 1.39” x 0.71”) and convenient snap connector for DC power and control signals also make it an excellent candidate for a wide range of system uses including LTE and 5G MIMO infrastructure, defense radar systems and more!
Every Block Covered: Cascaded P1dB and IP3 in a 26 GHz 5G Front-End
The computations required to determine cascaded P1dB and IP3 when incorporating multiple nonlinear devices into the cascade become significantly more complicated but shed more light on the behavior of linearity parameters at the system level. This article provides a deeper understanding of the equations behind system linearity parameters including step-by-step calculations for cascaded IP1dB, OP1dB, IIP3 and OIP3 in a six-component 5G n258 band receiver front end for illustration.
Medium Power Amplifier
Mini-Circuits’ new ZVA-02653G+ high-frequency amplifier achieves extremely flat gain response over its entire operating bandwidth from 2 to 65 GHz, allowing wideband measurements with minimal adjustments to your test setup. Its medium power output makes it ideal for RF port extension or as a broadband LO driver amplifier, among other applications.
Everything You Need to Know about Product Marking Methods
Device marking and identification is key to many aspects of customer use from quality assurance to assembly processes. Learn about the different product marking methods used for Mini-Circuits products, comparative advantages and disadvantages, and their impact on product change notifications.
I&Q Mixers, Image Reject Down-Conversion & Single Sideband (SSB) Up-Conversion
I&Q mixers are the central component of single sideband up-converters and image reject down-converters in superheterodyne transmitters and receivers. This brief introduction provides an overview of the theory and operation of I&Q mixers and a detailed explanation of their function in up- and down-conversion applications.
Reflectionless Filters
Mini-Circuits’ reflectionless filters are the only commercially available filters that absorb and internally terminate stopband signals rather than reflecting them back up the signal chain. Based on a novel, patented filter topology and produced with Mini-Circuits' industry-leading MMIC design and manufacturing capability, these devices are a revolutionary solution to a number of unwanted effects related to embedding conventional filters in system designs. Learn more below, and be sure to check out our full selection to see what they can do for your design!
Every Block Covered: Noise and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in a 26 GHz 5G Front-End
This installment of our Every Block Covered series builds on the concepts we established for cascading system noise parameters in a simple microwave receiver front-end. Using a more complex front-end for the 5G n258 (26 GHz) band, we'll explain how multiple non-linear components and shifts in bandwidth between stages affect the analysis.
Designer Kits
Mini-Circuits offers a wide selection of designer kits featuring handy combinations of components in small quantities for a great value. Whether you're stocking up on essentials for your test bench, evaluating component performance for your system or building prototypes, with over 100 unique kits in stock, chances are we have a kit for your needs!