Time:2025-11-27 Views:1
1. Core Parameters of the Device and High-Frequency Compatibility
The ZC4PD-K0644+ is a 4-way high-power resistive power splitter engineered for microwave-to-millimeter-wave bands, with key parameters tailored to 6-40 GHz high-performance systems:
Basic Performance Indicators
Frequency Coverage: 6-40 GHz (spanning Ku, Ka, Q, and V bands, compatible with millimeter-wave radar and satellite communication standards)
Power Capacity: Typical 50W CW (Continuous Wave) power handling capability, adapting to medium-to-high power transmission links in compact systems
Signal Isolation: High-isolation design (typically ≥25 dB across the band), minimizing crosstalk between output ports for multi-channel signal integrity
Signal Consistency: Amplitude imbalance ≤±0.5 dB and phase imbalance ≤±3° (typical values), supporting precise beamforming in phased array systems.
Structural and Process Characteristics
Fabricated with Rogers high-frequency laminate substrate (common in 6-40 GHz devices) and compact metal enclosure (approx. 50×30×8 mm, estimated), it features SMA or 2.92 mm precision connectors for broadband impedance matching. The fully shielded housing reduces electromagnetic leakage, critical for mitigating interference in dense radar or communication payloads.
2. Application Advantages in High-Frequency Systems
High-Isolation for Multi-Channel Purity
In phased array radars with 4-element sub-arrays, the ≥25 dB port isolation prevents signal leakage between channels, ensuring each antenna element receives a clean, independent drive signal. This is particularly valuable for electronic warfare systems where inter-channel crosstalk would degrade jamming or detection performance.
Broadband Adaptability Across Microwave/Millimeter-Wave Bands
The 6-40 GHz coverage eliminates the need for multiple band-specific splitters, simplifying designs for multi-mission systems (e.g., integrated satellite communication/radar payloads operating in Ku-band (12-18 GHz) and Ka-band (26.5-40 GHz)).
High-Power Compactness
With 50W CW handling in a small form factor, it replaces bulkier discrete splitting networks in airborne or satellite-borne systems where size/weight constraints are stringent. Unlike low-frequency high-power splitters, its resistive topology avoids ferrite components, reducing insertion loss (typically ≤1.8 dB) at millimeter-wave frequencies.
3. Analysis of Practical Application Scenarios
In radar transmission chains, the ZC4PD-K0644+ distributes the master oscillator signal to four GaN power amplifier modules (common in 6-40 GHz high-power designs). Its low amplitude imbalance ensures uniform power output across amplifiers, maintaining the linearity of the transmitted waveform. Within phased array antenna feed networks, it serves as a mid-level splitter, dividing the main signal into 4 antenna element groups while preserving phase coherence—essential for steering narrow beams in target-tracking radars. In satellite ground stations, it pre-distributes calibration signals to multiple receive channels, leveraging high isolation to prevent calibration errors caused by channel cross-talk, thereby enhancing the accuracy of uplink/downlink signal monitoring.
4. Information Supplement and Usage Recommendations
To-Be-Confirmed Parameters: Exact values for peak power handling, VSWR (critical for impedance matching in 40 GHz systems), and operating temperature range (likely -40℃~+85℃ for aerospace use) require verification via the Mini Circuits official datasheet. Confirm connector type compatibility with system cabling (2.92 mm vs. SMA for 40 GHz operation).
Key Points for Supporting Design:
Millimeter-wave soldering requires precision reflow (temperature ≤260℃) to avoid damaging the high-frequency substrate and connectors;
For 50W CW operation, attach a thermally conductive pad to the metal enclosure—high-frequency resistive losses increase heat generation compared to low-frequency splitters;
Use low-loss coaxial cables (e.g., RG-405) to maintain signal integrity between the splitter and active components.
Replacement and Upgrade: For higher power (≥100W CW), consider Mini Circuits’ ZC4PD-K1000+ series; for 8-way splitting with similar isolation, combine two ZC4PD-K0644+ units via a 2-way splitter, but verify phase matching between cascaded devices.
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