11-10-2019 | Link Microtek Ltd | Subs & Systems
Link Microtek’s comprehensive range of microwave rotary joints offers a new product – the AMCORJD-2KU device – which provides a coaxial dual-channel Ku-band capability that makes it ideal for both satellite-on-the-move and radar applications, either defence or commercial.
While microwave rotary joints of this type are often created with a high-frequency transmit channel and a lower-frequency L-band receive channel, the new device provides two channels operating in the Ku band. Reducing crosstalk is consequently a crucial consideration, and the rotary joint produces an impressive 50dB minimum isolation between the channels with typical figures being better than 70dB.
The Ku-band receive channel enables designers of satellite-on-the-move stabilised antenna platforms to remove frequency conversion hardware from the rotating side of the assembly, producing a simpler and more compact antenna design. Also, the device’s two-channel non-contacting design means it can give a long life with a continuous rotation that is demanded for employment in compact radar antennas.
In terms of microwave performance, the central transmit channel provides a VSWR of 1.3:1, an insertion loss of 0.3dB and power rating of 20W CW, while the outer receive channel provides a VSWR of 1.35:1, insertion loss of 0.5dB and a power rating of 10W CW.
Designed and manufactured at the company's premises, the product is fabricated from lightweight aluminium with a sealing rating of IP64 to protect it from the ingress of moisture and dust. The device has an operating temperature range of -40C to 55C and is specified with a 10-year lifetime of continuous rotation.
