RF switch matrix

An RF switch matrix is an array of RF switches arranged to route radio frequency (RF) signals between multiple inputs and multiple outputs. Applications requiring RF matrices include ground systems, test equipment, and communication systems.

An RF matrix is used in test systems, in both design verification and manufacturing test, to route high frequency signals between the device under test (DUT) and the test and measurement equipment. In addition to signal routing, the RF/Microwave Switch Matrix may also contain signal conditioning components including passive signal conditioning devices, such as attenuators, filters, and directional couplers, as well as active signal conditioning, such as amplification and frequency converters. Since the signal routing and signal conditioning needs of a test system differ from design to design, RF/Microwave Switch Matrices may be custom designed by the test system engineer or by a hired contractor for each new test system.

The Switch Matrix is made up of discrete electronic components including RF switches and signal conditioners that are mounted together in a mechanical infrastructure or housing. Cables interconnect the switches and signal conditioners. The switch matrix employs a driver circuit and power supply to power and drive the switches and signal conditioners. The switch matrix uses connectors or fixtures to route signals from the sourcing and measurement equipment to the DUT. The switch matrix is typically located close to the DUT to shorten the signal paths, thus reducing insertion loss and signal degradation.

Matrix benefits

The purpose of a switch matrix is to move the signal routing and signal conditioning to one central location in the test system versus having it all distributed at various places in the test system. Moving the signal routing and signal conditioning to a single location in the test system has the following advantages:
* The calibration plane between the DUT and test equipment becomes smaller and more centralized, making it easier to characterize.
* Switches and signal conditioners have similar power, mounting, and driver requirements, so moving them to a single location means only a single power supply and driver circuit is needed to power and control them.
* Short signal paths reduce insertion loss and increase signal integrity.
* Exact-length signal paths are possible, thereby controlling phase issues.
* Simplifies service and support.

Making it vs buying it

Switch matrices present a unique problem to test system designers as the signal conditioning needs, the frequency range, the bandwidth, and power aspects change from application to application. Test and measurement companies cannot provide a "one size fits all" solution. This leaves test system designers with two choices for their switch matrix design: Insourcing or outsourcing.

Insource advantages

# Proprietary