Dual channel up/down converters support W-band
European Engineering & Consultancy Ltd (EECL) has updated the frequency range of its configurable dual-channel up/down converters to reach 85 GHz. The converters facilitate high-volume, lower-cost testing for organisations that require rapid “pass/fail” assessments or laboratory exploration. The new support for higher bands up to W-Band will be presented at the next ARMMS conference.
Designed to enable RF engineers to optimise their existing investments, the latest iteration of the frequency converter module extends the capabilities of conventional test equipment without requiring an equipment overhaul, delivering maximum ROI. By providing independent up and down conversion with superior performance and flexibility, the modules ensure seamless operation and ease technical difficulties encountered at higher frequencies, both critical requirements for accurate RF testing at scale.
“The K-band and W-band frequencies have seen a sharp rise in demand due to their ability to support high data rates, increased bandwidth, and advanced sensing applications,” explains Ben Kieniewicz, CEO of EECL. “This, in turn, is driving the need for highly integrated test solutions, and our frequency converter module meets these requirements. Moreover, we are seeing significant interest across various industries because the larger players have limited solutions at an affordable price point.”
The module’s ability to perform phase-locked up/down conversion between the X-band (20-27 GHz) and W-band (75-82 GHz) ranges without requiring an external frequency reference makes it ideal for military radio and satellite antenna testing under real-world conditions. Other key applications include spacecraft simulation, RF signal experimentation for R&D, and equipment testing in 5G/6G networks.
The up/down converters support external and locally generated LO signals to enhance operational adaptability further. UART, SPI, or USB communication streamlines integration into diverse test setups and a built-in self-test mode, allowing internal loopback validation without external interference. The modules feature high channel isolation of 80 dB, ultra-low phase noise LO supporting 8 GHz to 60 GHz, and fast integrated tunable harmonic filters for superior spurious signal rejection. High dynamic range and low noise figure ensure optimal performance. Further, the module offers wide-range power supply compatibility with versatile interface support, including C, Matlab, Python and Labview.
Additionally, the module offers a highly configurable gain control range of +10 dB to -30 dB for both IF and RF ports, which can be independently reversed and configured as needed. Importantly, the internal oscillator leakage and unwanted sidebands are suppressed.
The company will also discuss W-band up/down conversion for automotive radar testing at the forthcoming ARMMS conference,
ARMMS conference
www.eecl.co.uk
If you enjoyed this article, you will like the following ones: don't miss them by subscribing to :
