Insertion Loss
The insertion loss is the attenuation between input and output ports of the switch when embedded in a circuit, when the switch control voltage corresponds to the “ON” state of the output port. For insertion loss measurement techniques see section “O” of the hand-book.
Isolation
The isolation is the attenuation between input and output ports of the switch when embedded in a circuit, when the switch control voltage corresponds to the “OFF” state of the output port. See insertion loss measurement techniques in Section “O” of the hand-book.
VSWR
VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) indicates the degree of impedance match present at the switch RF port. In most cases, it is much easier to describe the impedance match in terms of return loss, dB. Return loss is equal to the amount of reflected power relative to the incident power at a port. Simply by measuring both incident and reflected power, the return loss can be measured and hence the VSWR can be calculated. For return loss measurements see section “O” of the handbook. For convenience, a conversion chart between VSWR and Return loss is given in section “O”.
Transients
During switching, video transients occur which can disturb RF components following the switch. If lower transients are critical during the switching period, use a slower transition rate between control states.
Noise Figure
The noise figure (N.F.) of a switch is considered equal to its insertion loss.
1 dB compression point.
The RF input power level at which the switch insertion loss increases by 1 db over its low-level value.
Switching Speed
The most popular parameters are listed below:
TRise = Rise Time, time for RF signal to rise from 10% to 90% of the “on” level.
TFall = Fall Time, time for RF signal to fall from 90% to 10% of the “on” level.
TOn = On Time, time from 50% of the control pulse to 90% of the “on” level.
TOff = Off Time, time from 50% of the control pulse to 10% of the “on” level. Rise time and fall time affect the upper limit of switching rate and dictate the minimum time necessary for the switch to change state. On or Off time measures the total switching time starting at control pulse transition (50% point) to RF level stabilization (90% or 10% point). Switching speed is defined as the greater of these two values.
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