SPDT RF relays operate up to 18 GHz

Teledyne Relays has released two new models of hermetically-sealed, single-pole double-throw (SPDT) RF relays that operate up to 18 GHz. The RF131 and GRF131 non-latching SPDT RF relays are designed to offer fail-safe functionality up to 18 GHz and 40 Gbits/s data rates in challenging environments.

The RF131 and GRF131 non-latching models complement Teledyne’s equivalent through-hole RF121 and surface-mount GRF121 magnetic latching relays. Expanding rugged options for RF test and telecommunications markets, the electromechanical relays feature glass-to-metal hermetic seals and operate over a temperature range of -55°C to 85°C. They can be used in applications such as RF attenuators, RF switch matrices, high-frequency spread-spectrum radios, and ATE.

The RF relays come with a choice of a 5-V or 12-V rated coil and have a switching time (including bounce) of 10 ms maximum. The RF131 and GRF131 both come in an extended Centigrid package, which incorporates a precision transmission line structure in the internal construction of the contact system to ensure the best RF performance with minimal insertion loss and high isolation between signal paths, said Teledyne Relays.

The through-hole RF131 can switch frequencies up to 12 GHz with 20 Gbits/s signal integrity. The RF131 is supplied with standard gold-plated .75” leads and can also be ordered with solder or RoHS compliant solder-dipped leads. The surface-mount GRF131 features a unique ground shield to facilitate surface mounting and to extend the frequency range when compared to through-hole solutions, which increases the RF capability to 18 GHz and signal integrity to 40 Gbits/s, said Teledyne Relays.

The relays are designed with protection from dust and contaminates. The operating life expectancy up to two million cycles.