MCi designs and manufactures waveguide switches in sizes ranging from WR-62 to WR-2300. MCi offers switches in SPDT and DPDT configurations. In addition, Micro Communications offers motorized and manual operated configurations. Typically, waveguide switches are manufactured from 6061-T6 structural aluminum.
Switches: Design & Features
MCi waveguide switches are designed and engineered for low VSWR and insertion loss. The variety of switches available from MCi helps eliminate the need of patch panels, thereby permitting the use of all waveguide components. An all waveguide RF system can improve the transmitter efficiency by as much as 10 percent. Simultaneously, it can reduce the overall system VSWR and the number of RF components.
The typical design features and product highlights include:
- High power handling capability
- Manual or remote operation
- Three or four port configuration
- For use with unattended transmitters
- Ability to design tee switches (seen right)
Electrical Specifications
The following specifications apply to Micro Communications Series 65000 UHF-TV Waveguide Switches:
| Power | 280 kW |
| VSWR | 1.08 (any channel) |
| Isolation | > 60 dB (any channel) |
| Insertion Loss | < 0.1 dB |
| Switching Time | 2 Seconds |
| Drive Power | 110 / 220 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz, 4.6 Amp. 1/4 HP |
To discuss your project specifications or system requirements, please contact our sales team.
Motorized vs. Manual Waveguide Switches
The motorized waveguide switch is designed for unattended operations. However, it can be manually operated in the event of power interruptions. The RF portion of the switch drive is configured for 115 or 230VAC. It can operate with either 12 or 24 VDC control voltages. When considering a motorized vs. a waveguide switch, please consider the following notes:
- All motorized switches are equipped with a manual override handle
- All manual switches are capable of being field retrofitted to be motorized (please consult factory)
- For manual switches, positive locking pins are supplied
- For both designs, interlocks are located at both ends of travel
| FREQUENCY | 470 – 608 MHz | 566 – 728 MHz | 698 – 860 MHz |
| CHANNEL RANGE | 14 – 36 | 30 – 56 | 52 – 69 |
| WAVEGUIDE SIZE | WR1800 | WR1500 | WR1150 |
| MANUAL MODEL SIZE (L x W x H) | 36 x 36 x 16 (inches) 914 x 914 x 406 (mm) | 32 x 32 x 14 (inches) 813 x 813 x 356 (mm) | 28 x 28 x 12 (inches) 711 x 711 x 305 (mm) |
| MANUAL MODEL WEIGHT | 150 lbs. (68 kg.) | 120 lbs. (54 kg.) | 100 lbs. (45 kg.) |
| MOTORIZED MODEL (L x W x H) | 36 x 36 x 24 (inches) 914 x 914 x 610 (mm) | 32 x 32 x 22 (inches) 813 x 813 x 559 (mm) | 28 x 28 x 20 (inches) 711 x 711 x 508 (mm) |
| MOTORIZED MODEL WEIGHT | 200 lbs. (91 kg.) | 175 lbs. (79 kg.) | 150 lbs. (68 kg.) |
Product Line Highlights
In summary, Micro Communications complete line of waveguide switches offer the following product highlights:
- Available in waveguide sizes from WR-62 to WR-2300
- SPDT & DPDT configurations for H-Plane
- SPDT shutter switches available
- Manual or motorized drive
- Able to fit with lock-out, tag-out provisions
- Motorized options available with various drive and control voltages
- 115 or 230 VAC drive
- 12 or 24 VDC control
Waveguide Switches: Resources
For more information about waveguide switches, please contact our sales team to discuss your project requirements. You may also check out our partners at Mega Industries or Ferrite Microwave Technologies for their waveguide and coaxial solutions. We look forward to working with you!