RF FAQ Definitions

[VenkateshD]

1. What is dB?

dB, or decibel, is a logarithmic unit used to express the relative difference between two quantities, such as power, voltage, or intensity. It is widely used in various fields, including telecommunications, audio engineering, and electronics, to measure and compare the levels of signals and the gains or losses of components.

The decibel scale is logarithmic, which means that each increment on the scale represents a multiplication or division by a certain factor. In the context of power, the relationship between power in dB and the actual power is given by:

Power (in dB) = 10 * log10(Power ratio)

The power ratio represents the ratio between two power levels. For example, if you have an output power that is 10 times greater than the input power, the power ratio is 10, and the corresponding power in dB is:

Power (in dB) = 10 * log10(10) = 10 dB

Similarly, if the output power is half (or one-tenth) of the input power, the power ratio is 0.5 (or 0.1), and the power in dB is:

Power (in dB) = 10 * log10(0.5) ≈ -3 dB (or -10 dB)

The decibel scale allows for convenient representation and comparison of signal levels and losses/gains over a wide range. It provides a logarithmic perspective that accommodates large differences in values and helps to express them in a more manageable scale.

What is dBm?


dBm stands for decibel-milliwatt and is a unit of power measurement used to express power levels in relation to a reference power of 1 milliwatt (mW). It is commonly used in the field of telecommunications, particularly in measuring signal strength, power output, and power loss.

The decibel (dB) is a logarithmic unit that quantifies the ratio between two power levels. dBm extends this concept by adding a reference power level of 1 milliwatt. The dBm scale allows for convenient representation of power levels over a wide range.

The formula to convert power in milliwatts (mW) to dBm is:

Power (dBm) = 10 * log10(Power in mW)

Conversely, to convert power in dBm to milliwatts (mW), you can use the following formula:

Power (mW) = 10^(Power in dBm/10)

For example:

A power level of 1 milliwatt is represented as 0 dBm.
A power level of 10 milliwatts is represented as 10 dBm.
A power level of 1 watt (1000 milliwatts) is represented as 30 dBm.
dBm is a useful unit of measurement when dealing with small power levels, as it provides a convenient logarithmic scale for expressing power ratios and differences.

Why rf power is usually expressed in dBW or dBm?

dBm stands for decibel-milliwatt and is a unit of power measurement used to express power levels in relation to a reference power of 1 milliwatt (mW). It is commonly used in the field of telecommunications, particularly in measuring signal strength, power output, and power loss.

The decibel (dB) is a logarithmic unit that quantifies the ratio between two power levels. dBm extends this concept by adding a reference power level of 1 milliwatt. The dBm scale allows for convenient representation of power levels over a wide range.

The formula to convert power in milliwatts (mW) to dBm is:

Power (dBm) = 10 * log10(Power in mW)

Conversely, to convert power in dBm to milliwatts (mW), you can use the following formula:

Power (mW) = 10^(Power in dBm/10)

For example:

A power level of 1 milliwatt is represented as 0 dBm.
A power level of 10 milliwatts is represented as 10 dBm.
A power level of 1 watt (1000 milliwatts) is represented as 30 dBm.
dBm is a useful unit of measurement when dealing with small power levels, as it provides a convenient logarithmic scale for expressing power ratios and differences.

What is insertion loss of an rf cable?

Insertion loss in an RF cable refers to the reduction of signal power that occurs when a signal is transmitted through the cable. It represents the power loss experienced by the signal as it travels along the length of the cable.

When a signal passes through an RF cable, various factors can contribute to the loss of signal power. These factors include resistive losses in the cable's conductors, dielectric losses in the cable's insulation, and mismatches in impedance between the cable and connected devices.

Insertion loss is typically specified in decibels (dB) and represents the difference in power level between the input and output of the cable. For example, an insertion loss of 3 dB means that the output power is approximately half (or -3 dB) of the input power.

Higher-quality RF cables tend to have lower insertion losses, which means they exhibit less power loss as the signal passes through them. Lower insertion losses are desirable in applications where signal integrity and power transmission efficiency are crucial, as they help minimize the degradation of the signal.

It's important to note that insertion loss can vary depending on the frequency of the signal being transmitted, the length of the cable, and the specific characteristics of the cable itself. Therefore, when selecting an RF cable for a particular application, it's essential to consider the insertion loss specifications and choose a cable that meets the requirements of the system or application.

What is the return loss of an rf cable?

The return loss of an RF cable is a measure of the amount of power reflected back towards the source due to impedance mismatches or discontinuities in the cable. It quantifies the amount of power that is not effectively transmitted through the cable and is instead reflected back.

Return loss is typically expressed in decibels (dB) and represents the difference in power between the incident (input) power and the reflected power. It is calculated using the following formula:

Return Loss (dB) = 20 * log10(|Reflection Coefficient|)

The reflection coefficient is a measure of the magnitude of the reflected signal compared to the incident signal and is derived from the impedance mismatch at the cable interface. The return loss value indicates how well the cable is matched to the connected devices or components.

Higher return loss values indicate better matching and less reflection. A high return loss means that most of the power is transmitted through the cable, while a low return loss indicates a significant portion of power is being reflected back.

Return loss is an essential parameter in RF systems because excessive reflection can lead to signal degradation, reduced signal strength, and potential interference. It is important to select cables and connectors that provide adequate return loss performance to ensure efficient signal transmission and minimize signal losses caused by reflections.

What is meant by VSWR of a cable?

VSWR stands for Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, and it is a measure of the impedance match or mismatch between an RF transmission line (such as a cable) and the connected devices or components. VSWR is used to assess the efficiency of power transfer along the transmission line and to identify potential signal reflections.

VSWR is calculated as the ratio of the maximum voltage amplitude to the minimum voltage amplitude along the transmission line. It is often represented as a numerical value or as a ratio (e.g., 2:1, 1.5:1). The VSWR value provides information about the magnitude of standing waves that may be present due to reflections or impedance mismatches.

A VSWR value of 1:1 indicates a perfect impedance match, meaning that all the power is efficiently transferred from the source to the load without any reflections. This is the ideal scenario for optimal power transfer.

As the VSWR value increases, it indicates a poorer impedance match and a higher level of reflected power. A higher VSWR value corresponds to greater signal reflections and a less efficient power transfer. High VSWR values can lead to signal degradation, reduced power delivery, and potential damage to the connected devices.

Typically, a VSWR value below 2:1 is considered acceptable in most RF systems. The closer the VSWR value is to 1:1, the better the impedance match and the more efficient the power transfer.

VSWR is an important parameter in RF systems, as it helps evaluate the quality of the impedance match and assess the performance of the cable and connected components. It is commonly measured and monitored to ensure proper signal transmission and to identify any impedance mismatch issues that may impact system performance.

VSWR and insertion loss (IL):

VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) and insertion loss are related but represent different aspects of signal behavior in an RF system.

VSWR primarily focuses on the reflection of signals caused by impedance mismatches along the transmission line. It quantifies the magnitude of standing waves and indicates how well the transmission line is matched to the connected devices or components. A higher VSWR value indicates a poorer impedance match and greater signal reflections.

On the other hand, insertion loss primarily measures the attenuation or power loss that occurs as the signal passes through the transmission line. It quantifies the reduction in signal power along the length of the cable due to factors such as resistive losses, dielectric losses, and impedance mismatches.

While VSWR measures the ratio of the maximum voltage amplitude to the minimum voltage amplitude along the transmission line, insertion loss measures the difference in power levels between the input and output of the cable. Insertion loss is typically expressed in decibels (dB) and indicates the power loss experienced by the signal as it travels through the cable.

The relationship between VSWR and insertion loss lies in the fact that an impedance mismatch, which causes higher VSWR values, can lead to increased signal reflections and subsequently contribute to higher insertion loss. When there is a significant impedance mismatch along the transmission line, the reflected signals can interfere with the transmitted signals, causing power loss and degradation of the overall signal quality.

In summary, VSWR quantifies the reflection of signals caused by impedance mismatches, while insertion loss quantifies the power loss experienced by the signal as it passes through the transmission line. Both factors are interrelated, and an impedance mismatch causing higher VSWR can contribute to increased insertion loss.

Relation between VSWR and return loss (RL)

VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) and return loss are closely related as they both provide information about the impedance match of an RF transmission line.

Return loss is a measure of the amount of power reflected back towards the source due to impedance mismatches or discontinuities in the cable. It quantifies the reflection of power at the interface between the transmission line and the connected devices or components.

VSWR is calculated based on the return loss value. The VSWR value can be derived from the return loss using the following formula:

VSWR = (1 + |Reflection Coefficient|) / (1 - |Reflection Coefficient|)

The reflection coefficient represents the magnitude of the reflected signal compared to the incident signal and is related to the return loss. By calculating the reflection coefficient from the return loss value, the VSWR can be determined.

The relationship between VSWR and return loss can be understood as follows:

A low return loss value indicates a good impedance match, meaning that minimal power is reflected back towards the source. This corresponds to a low magnitude of the reflection coefficient. Consequently, a low return loss value results in a VSWR value that is close to 1:1, indicating a good match between the transmission line and the connected devices.

Conversely, a higher return loss value implies a poorer impedance match, leading to more power being reflected back towards the source. This corresponds to a higher magnitude of the reflection coefficient. As a result, a higher return loss value translates to a higher VSWR value, indicating a higher level of signal reflection and a poorer impedance match.

In summary, return loss and VSWR are related through the reflection coefficient. A lower return loss value corresponds to a lower magnitude of the reflection coefficient and a lower VSWR value, indicating a better impedance match. A higher return loss value corresponds to a higher magnitude of the reflection coefficient and a higher VSWR value, indicating a poorer impedance match and more signal reflections.

Formula that relates VSWR and RL:

The formula that relates VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) and RL (Return Loss) in terms of their respective magnitudes:

VSWR = (1 + |ρ|) / (1 - |ρ|)

RL = -20 * log10(|ρ|)

In these formulas, |ρ| represents the magnitude of the reflection coefficient. The reflection coefficient (ρ) is a complex quantity that captures both the magnitude and phase of the reflected signal compared to the incident signal. However, for simplicity, the formulas above use the magnitude of the reflection coefficient.

By using these formulas, you can calculate either the VSWR or the return loss value if you have the magnitude of the reflection coefficient.

Note that both VSWR and return loss are typically expressed in logarithmic scales (decibels) for practical purposes. The formulas allow you to convert between these measures when you have the magnitude of the reflection coefficient available.

Keep in mind that the reflection coefficient is influenced by the impedance mismatch between the transmission line and the connected devices. A higher magnitude of the reflection coefficient corresponds to a poorer impedance match, leading to higher VSWR values and higher return loss values. Conversely, a lower magnitude of the reflection coefficient corresponds to a better impedance match, resulting in lower VSWR values and lower return loss values.

[VenkateshD]

In a communication system, noise refers to any unwanted or random signals that interfere with the desired signal during transmission or reception. Noise can degrade the quality and reliability of the transmitted information, leading to errors or loss of information.

Noise in a communication system can arise from various sources:

Thermal Noise (Johnson-Nyquist Noise): Also known as white noise or thermal noise, this is caused by the random thermal motion of electrons in conductors or electronic components. It is present in all electronic systems and is directly related to temperature. Thermal noise has a uniform power spectral density across a wide range of frequencies.

Interference: Interference noise can come from external sources, such as other electronic devices or electromagnetic radiation. Common sources of interference include radio signals from nearby transmitters, power lines, motors, and other electrical equipment. Interference noise can disrupt the desired signal and introduce errors or distortions.

Crosstalk: Crosstalk occurs when signals from one communication channel interfere with signals in another nearby channel. It can be caused by electromagnetic coupling between adjacent cables or conductors. Crosstalk noise can degrade the quality of the transmitted signals and reduce the signal-to-noise ratio.

Impulse Noise: Impulse noise consists of sudden and transient disturbances in the signal, often caused by external factors like lightning, power surges, or faulty equipment. It can disrupt the communication momentarily and introduce errors in the transmitted data.

Amplifier Noise: Amplifiers in the communication system can introduce noise due to their inherent characteristics. Amplifier noise is typically quantified by parameters such as noise figure or noise factor, which indicate the amount of noise added by the amplifier to the signal.

Receiver Noise: The receiver itself can contribute to the overall noise in the system. Receiver noise includes noise introduced by amplifiers, mixers, and other components in the receiver chain. Receiver noise can limit the system's ability to detect and correctly decode weak signals.

In communication systems, the presence of noise is inevitable, and efforts are made to minimize its impact through techniques such as signal processing, error correction coding, and noise filtering. The goal is to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) to improve the system's performance and reliability.

Insertion Loss and Return Loss Measurement:


Insertion Loss Measurement:
To measure the insertion loss of a cable, you typically need a signal source, a power meter, and suitable test cables. Here's a general procedure:

Connect the signal source to one end of the cable under test.
Connect the other end of the cable under test to the input of the power meter.
Set the signal source to the desired frequency and power level.
Measure the power level at the output of the cable using the power meter.
Disconnect the cable under test and directly connect the power meter to the signal source.
Measure the power level directly at the output of the signal source without the cable.
The insertion loss is calculated by taking the difference between the power levels measured with and without the cable: Insertion Loss = Power without cable - Power with cable.
Return Loss Measurement:
To measure the return loss of a cable, you need a signal source, a power meter, and a reflection measurement setup. Here's a general procedure:

Connect the signal source to one end of the cable under test.
Connect a reflection measurement setup (such as a directional coupler or reflectometer) to the other end of the cable.
Set the signal source to the desired frequency and power level.
Measure the power level of the signal reflected back towards the source using the reflection measurement setup.
The return loss is calculated as the ratio of the incident power to the reflected power expressed in decibels (dB).
Both insertion loss and return loss measurements can be performed using specialized test equipment, such as network analyzers or vector network analyzers, which provide more accurate and comprehensive measurements. These instruments allow for frequency-domain measurements, provide graphical representations of the results, and offer additional parameters like VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) and phase information.

It's important to follow the specific measurement procedures outlined in the test equipment's manual and consider any calibration or compensation requirements to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

Check out the exact setup on how to measure noise figure

[VenkateshD]

Insertion Loss Measurement:
To measure the insertion loss of a cable, you typically need a signal source, a power meter, and suitable test cables. Here's a general procedure:

Connect the signal source to one end of the cable under test.
Connect the other end of the cable under test to the input of the power meter.
Set the signal source to the desired frequency and power level.
Measure the power level at the output of the cable using the power meter.
Disconnect the cable under test and directly connect the power meter to the signal source.
Measure the power level directly at the output of the signal source without the cable.
The insertion loss is calculated by taking the difference between the power levels measured with and without the cable: Insertion Loss = Power without cable - Power with cable.
Return Loss Measurement:
To measure the return loss of a cable, you need a signal source, a power meter, and a reflection measurement setup. Here's a general procedure:

Connect the signal source to one end of the cable under test.
Connect a reflection measurement setup (such as a directional coupler or reflectometer) to the other end of the cable.
Set the signal source to the desired frequency and power level.
Measure the power level of the signal reflected back towards the source using the reflection measurement setup.
The return loss is calculated as the ratio of the incident power to the reflected power expressed in decibels (dB).
Both insertion loss and return loss measurements can be performed using specialized test equipment, such as network analyzers or vector network analyzers, which provide more accurate and comprehensive measurements. These instruments allow for frequency-domain measurements, provide graphical representations of the results, and offer additional parameters like VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) and phase information.

It's important to follow the specific measurement procedures outlined in the test equipment's manual and consider any calibration or compensation requirements to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

Check out the lab here:
https://www.rfcables.org/articles/21.html#Return%20Loss%20Measurement

[VenkateshD]

What is noise figure in communication systems?

Noise figure is a parameter used to quantify the degradation of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in a communication system introduced by the system's components, particularly amplifiers. It characterizes the noise performance of an amplifier or an entire system by comparing the input noise power to the output noise power.

The noise figure is expressed in decibels (dB) and represents the ratio of the signal-to-noise ratio at the input of the system to the signal-to-noise ratio at the output. It is defined as:

Noise Figure (NF) = 10 * log10 (Output SNR / Input SNR)

In essence, the noise figure indicates how much additional noise is introduced by the system, compared to an ideal, noiseless system. A lower noise figure value corresponds to better noise performance, indicating less noise is added by the system.

A noise figure of 0 dB would indicate an ideal system that does not contribute any additional noise. However, in practice, achieving a noise figure of 0 dB is not possible due to the inherent noise generated by electronic components and the limitations of real-world devices.

Noise figure is an important parameter in communication systems because noise degrades the quality of the received signal and limits the system's ability to detect and interpret weak signals. A lower noise figure indicates that the system or amplifier is better at preserving the original signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in improved overall system performance.

When cascading multiple amplifiers or components in a system, the overall noise figure of the system is affected by the noise figures of individual components. The total noise figure of a cascaded system can be calculated using the Friis formula or the Y-factor method.

In summary, noise figure provides a measure of the noise performance of amplifiers and systems in communication systems. A lower noise figure corresponds to better noise performance and improved signal quality.

How do you measure noise figure?

Measuring the noise figure of an amplifier or a system typically requires specialized test equipment known as a noise figure analyzer or noise figure meter. Here's a general procedure for measuring noise figure:

Set up the measurement equipment: Connect the input of the device under test (DUT) to the input port of the noise figure analyzer and connect the output of the DUT to the output port of the analyzer. Ensure all connections are properly made and any necessary power supplies or biasing requirements are met.

Calibrate the system: Perform a calibration procedure to establish a reference level and to compensate for any losses or mismatches in the measurement setup. The calibration procedure typically involves connecting known noise sources of specific power levels to the input and output ports of the analyzer.

Enable noise figure measurement mode: Configure the noise figure analyzer to the appropriate measurement mode for noise figure measurement. Set the desired frequency range and any other relevant settings, such as bandwidth and averaging.

Measure the noise figure: Apply the appropriate input signal to the DUT and initiate the measurement on the noise figure analyzer. The analyzer will measure the noise power at the input and output ports and calculate the noise figure based on these measurements.

Repeat the measurement: If desired, repeat the measurement at different input signal power levels or frequency points to assess the variation in noise figure under different operating conditions.

It's important to note that the specific steps and procedures for measuring noise figure may vary depending on the equipment being used. Noise figure analyzers often come with their own software interfaces and user manuals that provide detailed instructions on calibration, measurement setup, and interpretation of results.

Additionally, it's crucial to ensure that the DUT and measurement setup are properly configured and matched, and that any environmental factors or interference sources are minimized to obtain accurate noise figure measurements.

For more precise and accurate measurements, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and specifications of the noise figure analyzer being used.

How noise is related to frequency of signals?

The relationship between noise and frequency in a signal can vary depending on the specific source of noise and the characteristics of the system. Here are a few key points to understand the relationship between noise and frequency:

Thermal Noise: Thermal noise, also known as Johnson-Nyquist noise, is a type of noise that arises due to the random thermal motion of electrons in conductors or electronic components. It is present in all electronic systems and has a flat power spectral density across a wide range of frequencies. This means that thermal noise is generally independent of frequency.

Shot Noise: Shot noise is another type of noise that occurs due to the statistical nature of the flow of electrons or other particles in a conductor or semiconductor. Shot noise is proportional to the square root of the current flowing through the device and is generally more significant at higher frequencies. Therefore, shot noise tends to increase with frequency.

Interference Noise: Interference noise can arise from external sources such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI). The presence and characteristics of interference noise can vary depending on the frequency range and specific sources of interference. Certain frequency bands may be more susceptible to interference, depending on the environment and nearby electronic devices.

Bandwidth Considerations: When considering noise in a communication system, it's important to account for the bandwidth over which the signal is transmitted or processed. The total noise power within the system is influenced by both the noise power density (noise per unit frequency) and the bandwidth. Increasing the bandwidth while keeping the noise power density constant can result in higher total noise power.

In summary, the relationship between noise and frequency can vary depending on the type of noise and the characteristics of the system. While thermal noise tends to be frequency-independent, other types of noise, such as shot noise or interference noise, may exhibit frequency-dependent characteristics. Understanding the noise sources and their frequency behavior is essential for proper noise analysis and mitigation in communication systems.


There are several formulas and equations that are commonly used to describe the relationship between noise and frequency in different contexts. Here are a few examples:

Thermal Noise Power:
The power spectral density of thermal noise is given by the equation:
N0 = k * T * B
where N0 is the noise power spectral density in watts per hertz (W/Hz), k is the Boltzmann constant (1.38 x 10^-23 J/K), T is the temperature in Kelvin (K), and B is the bandwidth in hertz (Hz).

Noise Figure (NF):
The noise figure is expressed in decibels (dB) and is defined as:
NF = 10 * log10 (Output SNR / Input SNR)
where Output SNR is the signal-to-noise ratio at the output of the system or component, and Input SNR is the signal-to-noise ratio at the input.

Shot Noise:
The power spectral density of shot noise is given by:
Ns = 2 * q * I * B
where Ns is the shot noise power spectral density in watts per hertz (W/Hz), q is the charge of an electron (1.6 x 10^-19 C), I is the current in amperes (A), and B is the bandwidth in hertz (Hz).

It's important to note that these formulas provide a simplified representation of noise characteristics and may not capture all aspects of noise behavior in complex systems. The specific noise characteristics and their frequency dependence can vary depending on the system, components, and noise sources involved. More detailed noise models and equations may be used for specific noise sources or applications.

When working with noise analysis or calculations, it's essential to consider the specific noise sources, their spectral characteristics, and the system's bandwidth to accurately characterize and analyze the noise behavior at different frequencies.

[VenkateshD]

There are several types of RF cables commonly used in various applications. Here are some of the most widely used types:

Coaxial Cable (Coax): Coaxial cables are widely used for RF and telecommunications applications. They consist of a center conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating jacket. Coaxial cables provide good signal isolation, low loss, and high shielding effectiveness. Common types of coaxial cables include RG-6, RG-58, RG-174, and RG-213.

Microstrip Cable: Microstrip cables are thin, flat, and flexible cables used in printed circuit boards (PCBs) and microwave applications. They consist of a flat conductor separated from a ground plane by a dielectric material. Microstrip cables offer compact size, ease of integration into PCB designs, and are suitable for high-frequency applications.

Twinaxial Cable (Twinax): Twinaxial cables are similar to coaxial cables but have two inner conductors instead of one. They are commonly used in high-speed data transmission applications, such as computer networking and data centers. Twinax cables offer improved signal integrity and are capable of transmitting high data rates over longer distances compared to coaxial cables.

Triaxial Cable (Triax): Triaxial cables are similar to coaxial cables but have an additional layer of shielding. They are used in applications that require even higher levels of signal isolation and reduced interference. Triaxial cables find applications in areas such as sensitive instrumentation, medical equipment, and high-performance video systems.

Waveguide: Waveguides are hollow metal tubes used to guide electromagnetic waves at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. They are used in high-power and high-frequency applications, such as radar systems and satellite communications. Waveguides provide low loss and high power handling capabilities but require precise design and larger physical dimensions compared to other types of cables.

These are just a few examples of the many types of RF cables available, each designed for specific applications, frequencies, and performance requirements. The choice of the RF cable depends on factors such as the desired frequency range, power handling capabilities, signal integrity requirements, environmental conditions, and cost considerations.

Coaxial cable, and prominent manufacturers of the same.

Coaxial cable, also known as coax cable, is a type of cable widely used in RF (Radio Frequency) and telecommunications applications for transmitting high-frequency signals. It consists of a central conductor, an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating jacket. The inner conductor and the outer shield are concentric and share the same axis, hence the term "coaxial."

The inner conductor, typically made of copper or aluminum, carries the signal and is surrounded by a dielectric insulating material, such as foam or solid plastic. The metallic shield, usually made of braided or foil-wrapped conductive material, provides electrical shielding to minimize interference and external noise. The outer insulating jacket protects the cable from physical damage and environmental factors.

Coaxial cables offer several advantages for RF applications, including low signal loss, high signal integrity, and effective shielding against electromagnetic interference. They are capable of carrying signals over long distances with minimal degradation and are widely used for applications such as cable television (CATV), satellite communications, computer networking, video surveillance, and RF testing and measurement.

Prominent manufacturers of coaxial cables include:

Belden Inc.: Belden is a leading manufacturer of high-quality coaxial cables and other communication cables. They offer a wide range of coaxial cable products designed for various applications, including broadcast, industrial, military, and telecommunications.

Times Microwave Systems: Times Microwave Systems is a well-known manufacturer of coaxial cables, connectors, and related RF products. They specialize in high-performance cables for critical applications, including aerospace, defense, and wireless communications.

CommScope: CommScope is a global provider of network infrastructure solutions, including coaxial cables for broadband, wireless, and enterprise applications. Their coaxial cables are designed for high-speed data transmission, CATV, and wireless infrastructure.

Pasternack (An Infinite Electronics Brand): Pasternack is a supplier of RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave products. They offer a wide selection of coaxial cables suitable for various frequency ranges and applications, including aerospace, defense, and telecommunications.

Amphenol: Amphenol is a reputable manufacturer of interconnect products, including coaxial cables and connectors. They provide a range of coaxial cable solutions for industries such as telecommunications, automotive, and industrial applications.

There are several other manufacturers and suppliers offering a variety of coaxial cables with different specifications, sizes, and performance characteristics to meet the specific needs of different applications.

Various types of waveguides, purpose and prominent manufacturers of the same.

Waveguides are hollow metal tubes or structures used for guiding electromagnetic waves at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. They are commonly employed in high-frequency applications, such as radar systems, satellite communications, wireless networks, and microwave engineering. Here are explanations of various types of waveguides, their purposes, and some prominent manufacturers:

Shape: Rectangular cross-section.
Purpose: Used for guiding microwave signals with low loss and high power handling capabilities.
Prominent Manufacturers: Maury Microwave, Mician, EIA Waveguide, MegaPhase, Satcom Resources.
Circular Waveguide:

Shape: Circular cross-section.
Purpose: Suitable for guiding high-frequency electromagnetic waves with low loss and high power transmission.
Prominent Manufacturers: MegaPhase, Maury Microwave, EIA Waveguide, Mega Industries Corporation.
Elliptical Waveguide:

Shape: Elliptical cross-section.
Purpose: Used in applications where space limitations or specific beam shapes are required.
Prominent Manufacturers: Maury Microwave, EIA Waveguide, A.L.M.T. Corp., MegaPhase.
Ridged Waveguide:

Structure: Rectangular waveguide with ridges or fins on the inner walls.
Purpose: Provides reduced cutoff frequency, increased bandwidth, and improved mode purity.
Prominent Manufacturers: EIA Waveguide, Flann Microwave, SAGE Millimeter, MegaPhase.
Flexible Waveguide:

Structure: Waveguide with a flexible outer jacket, often corrugated.
Purpose: Allows for bending and flexing of the waveguide to accommodate installation and routing requirements.
Prominent Manufacturers: MegaPhase, CarlisleIT, Micro-Coax, SAGE Millimeter.
Double-Ridged Waveguide:

Structure: Rectangular waveguide with two ridges on the opposite walls.
Purpose: Provides a wide bandwidth and low VSWR for high-frequency applications.
Prominent Manufacturers: Maury Microwave, MegaPhase, Microtech, Flann Microwave.
Corrugated Waveguide:

Structure: Waveguide with a corrugated inner surface.
Purpose: Used for guiding high-power microwave signals and minimizing mode conversion.
Prominent Manufacturers: MegaPhase, Microtech, Flann Microwave, Maury Microwave.

Prominent manufacturers mentioned above specialize in manufacturing various types of waveguides, connectors, components, and accessories for waveguide-based systems. It is worth noting that there are numerous manufacturers and suppliers in the waveguide industry, each offering a range of products tailored to specific frequency ranges, power levels, and application requirements.

Check out the Coax Cable Selection Guide if you are looking for information on choosing right kind of cable for your application.