Microwave Techniques offers a complete line of waveguide couplers, available in a diverse range of styles and configurations. These components are critical devices, found in nearly all microwave and RF systems in use. At a fundamental level, the purpose of a coupler is to monitor power without changing the properties of the transmission line. Typically, Microwave Techniques specializes in a range of waveguide component sizes from WR90 to WR2300. To discuss your requirements, contact our dedicated RF component sales group today.
Types of Waveguide Couplers
Microwave Techniques manufactures various types of waveguide couplers. We also offer designs with custom specifications, such as heavy wall, reduced height, or custom flange interfaces. Our standard offering includes:
- Array
- Monitor
- Broadwall
- Directional
- Branchline
- Cross-guide
- Dual monitor
- Vestigial loop
- Quad couplers
- Dual directional
- Hybrid couplers
- Loop couplers: single, double, triple
For standard waveguide directional couplers, these devices are factory set at different coupling values for forward and reverse waves, per application demand. We also have options to optimize space utilization in a feed system layout.
Design Capabilities & Custom Configurations
In addition to our standard offering, Microwave Techniques has the ability to offer new designs with custom configurations. Some of our customization options for waveguide couplers includes:
- Integration of pump-out ports
- Half-height waveguide options
- Options for air or liquid cooling
- Ultra-high vacuum compatibility
- Integrated waveguide assemblies
- Options for high-pressure applications
- A selection of specialty flange interfaces
About Waveguide Couplers
What is a waveguide coupler? A coupler is a device used in a waveguide transmission system to monitor RF or microwave power. They can also be used for branch line feeding, as well as signal mixing and sampling. Several types of couplers are available. Array couplers, Cross Guide, and Branch Line couplers may be selected for optimum space utilization in a feed system layout.
What is a waveguide directional coupler? Directional couplers are utilized for reflectometer measurements and power monitoring in microwave and RF transmission systems. For multi-loop couplers, the couplers can be set at different coupling values for forward and reverse waves to optimize the dynamic range.
When exploring design options for a waveguide coupler, the following technical specifications should be considered:
- VSWR
- Directivity
- Return loss
- Dimensions
- Power levels
- Insertion loss
- Coupling values
- Waveguide sizes
- Operating frequency band
Typical Waveguide Coupler Electrical Specifications*
| VSWR | 1.05:1 |
| Directivity | 30 dB |
| Nominal Coupling Factor | 10 dB to 50 dB + 1.0 dB |
| Coupling Variation | + 0.5 dB |
*over a 10% waveguide band
Typical Waveguide Directional Coupler Technical Data
| Mainline VSWR | 1.05:1 |
| Sidearm VSWR | 1.25:1 |
| Coupling Factor | 40 dB to 75 dB + 1.0 dB** |
| Coupling Variation | + 1.0 dB |
| Insertion Loss | < 0.05 dB |
| Terminations | Included, external two watt |
*over a 10% waveguide band
Contact our product support team today to discuss your requirements.
