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Extension modules for radio frequencies
Frequency extenders
Frequency extension refers to the process of extending the frequency bandwidth of a measuring instrument to a band in the millimetre-wave or THz range using an external frequency multiplier, also known as a Frequency Multiplier RF.
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Frequency multiplication by multiplication and/or heterodyne mixing
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Broadband frequency doublers / frequency triplers
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Expansion modules for VNAs, spectrum analysers and signal generators (also available as portable modules for SA/SG)
What is a frequency multiplier?
A frequency multiplier generates an output frequency that is an integer multiple higher than the input frequency. For example, a frequency multiplier with a factor of 6 generates an output frequency of 90GHz from 15GHz. The frequency multiplication process is frequently used in signal generators (SG).
A frequency extender is a complete add-on system that extends a device’s measurement range beyond its internal frequency limit. Such a frequency extender may contain several components, including the frequency multiplier. In the case of a vector network analyser (VNA) or spectrum analyser (SA), the extender does not merely generate the high-frequency test signal. It also receives the reflected and transmitted signals and down-converts them to a lower intermediate frequency. This enables, for example, the measurement of S-parameters in the millimetre-wave or terahertz range.
Where are terahertz frequencies required?
The applications of terahertz (THz) technology range from security screening and medical imaging to high-speed communications and quality control, such as in
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non-invasive body and baggage scanners
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medicine, for visualising surface layers of the human body
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wireless networks for high-speed data transmission
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spectroscopic applications in food quality control or in the pharmaceutical industry.
What are the typical THz measurement tasks carried out using frequency multipliers?
Measurements and the associated measuring instruments for the frequency range >110GHz generally consist of several components. The most common measurement tasks in the 110GHz–1.5THz frequency range are:
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Signal generation: unmodulated or modulated signals require different measurement set-ups
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Signal analysis: Set-up of a spectrum analyser with a frequency extension module
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Network analysis: Use of a vector network analyser with a frequency multiplier
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Power measurement is difficult and is carried out using a calorimeter
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Measurement of the dielectric properties of materials (permittivity, loss factor)
Broadband frequency doublers
Depending on the input frequency, frequency doublers have either a coaxial or a waveguide input. As we specialise in high output frequencies, the doubler modules we offer have a waveguide output port in almost all cases.
The frequency doublers differ in configuration and dimensions depending on the frequency range. The WR-15 to WR-12 ranges comprise low-frequency doublers, whilst the WR-10 to WR-1.9 ranges comprise radio frequency doublers.
Broadband frequency triplers
Just like doublers, frequency triplers can also be divided into four categories, depending on the frequency range. Consequently, the structure and dimensions also change.
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Low frequency (WR-15 to WR-6.59)
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Middle frequency (WR-5.1 to WR-1.5)
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High frequency (WR-1.2 to WR-0.34)
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Compact high frequency (WR-1.2 to WR-0.34)
Frequency extension modules
Extension modules for spectrum analysers
The spectrum analyser extension modules (SAX) by Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) provide high-performance broadband down-conversion and frequency extension for microwave spectrum analysers into the THz range. VDI SAX modules provide full waveguide band coverage and are available from WR28 (26 to 40GHz) to WR0.65 (1.1 to 1.5THz), with modules for further bands currently under development.
For SA extension mode, this turnkey extender solution is compatible with most modern spectrum analysers featuring an external mixer option.
Extension modules for signal generators
VDI’s SGX modules cover the entire waveguide band and are available from WR15 (50 to 75GHz) to WM-164 (1.1 to 1.5THz), with modules for further bands currently under development. These turnkey, tunable extender solutions are compatible with any microwave signal generator that meets the requirements for input frequency, RF power, phase noise, amplitude stability and spectral purity.
Extensions for vector network analysers
The VNA extender modules (VNAX) by Virginia Diodes Inc. (VDI) provide high-performance frequency extension for network analysers in waveguide bands from 26 GHz up to 1,500 GHz. These modules combine high testing port power with an exceptional dynamic range, thereby delivering industry-leading performance.
In addition to the full transceiver modules (TxRx), VDI also offers modules with reduced functionality: pure transmitter modules with a reference signal output (TxRef) and pure receiver modules (Rx). The modules are compatible with most network analysers and can be integrated into testing stations and antenna measurement chambers.
Portable spectrum analyser extensions by Virginia Diodes (VDI)
BenchTop network spectrum analyser extensions
Portable PSAX frequency extension modules are used to extend modern portable handheld spectrum analysers to the 50–170 GHz frequency range in waveguide bands from WR-15 (50–75 GHz) to WR-6.5 (110–170 GHz).
Portable signal generator extenders
The portable signal generator extension (PSGX) modules by Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) provide powerful frequency extension for portable microwave signal generators (e.g. those with a pulse generator app) up into the THz range.
We are experts in radio frequency technology: Talk to us.
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