Aerospace & Defense Technology - October 2024 - 30

RF & Microwave Technology
loss is critical for maximizing signal
transmission distance. Lower insertion
loss allows the signal to travel farther
before its strength becomes insufficient
for reliable reception.
Phase performance over temperature
is a particularly critical parameter. RF
coaxial cables often utilize PTFE dielectrics
due to their wide operating temperature
range and low dielectric loss;
however, PTFE exhibits a phase transition
near room temperature, leading to
non-linear phase length variations and
significant hysteresis with temperature
fluctuations. This characteristic poses
challenges for phase sensitive systems
in varying thermal environments.
Most high quality, high performance
coaxial cables are made using dielectric
materials whose dielectric constant is
very stable across a relatively wide
range of temperatures. As the environmental
temperature changes around
the cable, the metal conductors of the
coaxial structure undergo a well-understood
thermal expansion and contraction.
To address these issues, Times
Microwave Systems has developed specialized
cable assemblies using materials
like silicon dioxide and proprietary
dielectrics to minimize temperature-induced
phase changes.
PhaseTrack cable assemblies from
Times Microwave Systems are engineered
for applications where precise phase
control is essential and phase change
over temperature must be minimized.
Featuring the proprietary TF4® dielectric,
a foam fluoropolymer, these cables deliver
exceptional phase stability by eliminating
the significant phase shifts typically
seen with PTFE dielectrics between
15 °C and 25 °C. With diameters ranging
from 0.047 " to 0.318 " , PhaseTrack cables
support a broad frequency range and
operate reliably across diverse temperature
conditions. Their versatility is further
enhanced by a comprehensive
selection of connectors, including standard
and high-frequency options, as well
as four different jacket materials, making
them ideal for demanding environments.
Additionally, these cables are
double shielded for excellent shielding
effectiveness, minimizing signal interference.
A vapor seal interlayer is included
to prevent moisture and contaminants
from compromising electrical
performance under any conditions.
Takeaways
Precise phase control is paramount for
the successful operation of numerous RF
and microwave systems, demanding
consistent phase relationships between
components. As a critical interconnect,
coaxial cables significantly impact overall
system performance, especially in
complex phased array radar systems,
where meticulous phase control and
minimal signal loss are essential for
achieving optimal accuracy, speed, and
reliability. The increasing complexity
and performance requirements of modern
systems necessitate highly stable
phase components, driving continuous
innovation in coaxial cable technology.
The integration of phased array radar
systems across various sectors underscores
their transformative impact, making them
indispensable tools in both military and
civilian applications. As these systems
become increasingly sophisticated, the
importance of understanding and addressing
the challenges posed by coaxial cable
performance becomes paramount. Industry
leaders like Times Microwave Systems
are at the forefront, developing cutting-edge
solutions that ensure the stability
and accuracy of phase relationships,
enabling effective beamforming and target
acquisition. The future of radar technology
hinges on the continued innovation
and precision engineering of these
critical components, ensuring reliable
operation even in the most challenging
environments and empowering next-generation
systems to operate with greater
accuracy and efficiency.
This article was written by Phoebe
Hitchcock, Product Manager, Times
Microwave Systems (Wallingford, CT).
For more information, visit www.
timesmicrowave.com.
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30
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Aerospace & Defense Technology, October 2024
http://www.timesmicrowave.com http://info.hotims.com/86260-800 https://mobilityengineeringtech.com
Aerospace & Defense Technology - October 2024

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