RF System, commonly known as Radio-Frequency, transfers power to ALS in the form of microwaves. Its demand is increasing with the evolution of technology. Many companies are well known for manufacturing components for RF systems. Huber Suhner is one of the giant company that manufactures RF passive components.
So, let’s learn more about the RF Passive components and know their uses.
Capacitors:
As per details, the ideal capacitor gives the same response for 1 Hz and 1 GHz signals. However, not every capacitor is perfect that makes the non-idealities in all the capacitors that become significant at high frequencies. When working with high frequency, inductance is the most common non-ideality.
On the one hand, where it is expected that capacitor impedance decreases with the increase in frequency, on the other hand, the parasitic inductance results in lowering the inductance that increases the afterwards.
Inductors:
The ideal inductor is used to increase proportionally to the frequency. However, when the parallel capacitor is attached to it, the result impedance is increased alongside the increase in frequency. That’s the reason why you are recommended to choose the capacitors and inductors for RF circuits (especially with a frequency above 1 GHz).
Resistors:
The case of inductors is similar to resistors. The Resistors are ineffective at high frequencies as the inductance is connected in series, and the capacitor is connected in parallel mode. That’s why, when working with high-frequency RF circuits, it’s common to acknowledge parasitic circuit elements.
Moreover, regardless of the ideal/simple resistance elements, the resistor must always be soldered on to PCB. Similarly, any other component, soldered on the board has some parasitic element alongside.
Crystals:
The crystals are the fundamental element to generate a stable frequency, used to convey information. In digital design, the circuits don’t require precision data from the crystal. It is the primary reason why people make mistakes while selecting the right crystal for their RF circuits.
In an EF circuit, you need a steady and precise frequency. The ordinary crystals are commonly temperature sensitive, which makes problems in RF systems. It becomes a critical problem with the RF systems, exposed to ambient temperature. Hence, it would be best if you had a TCXO (Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillator) to deliver precise and steady frequency.
Baluns:
Baluns are the most common component in every RF system. Baluns convert differential signals to single-ended i.e., balanced to unbalanced or vice-verse. It comes under the category of transformers. In lower-frequency circuits, amplifiers are commonly used to convert differentials. However, in RF systems, Baluns are used often.
The reason behind this is, when dealing with high frequencies, the passive components are more practical compared to IC-based equipment.
Antennas:
The standard functioning of the antenna is to convert the electric singles into electromagnetic radiations or vice versa. The antennas are opted based on the needs and to optimise the generation/reception of electromagnetic radiation.
Being a part of the complexity, it’s not easy to choose/design an antenna for your RF system. The problem occurs with high frequencies, which demands shorter antennas.