The primary and secondary windings are electrically separate, and power transfer is strictly by way of magnetic induction rather than current flow. One rather obvious method of electrical isolation is to use a transformer. This article introduces isolation methods and a modern integrated approach. A fully integrated signal and power isolation product that’s now available brings a number of benefits to system design, including reduced board space, ease of certification, and simpler design. There’s a need for an efficient, affordable, and compact isolation solution for industrial equipment. Industrial equipment that requires isolation includes programmable logic controllers (PLCs), motor drives, medical equipment, solar inverters, electrical vehicles (EVs), and some special power supplies.

Communicating with high-side devices in a motor drive or power-converter systems.

Preventing ground loops in communications networks.

Protecting expensive processors and related circuits from high voltage.

Protecting industrial operators from high voltage.

This kind of isolation is required in a number of instances, such as: If you already know the exact product you need, our Quick Order Portal allows you to easily search by stock or part number and add to your cart.Īnd don't forget, we have expert advice and the latest industry information on our expert advice hub.This article is part of the TechXchange : Delving into Digital IsolatorsĮlectronic isolation is a means of preventing the transfer of direct current (dc) and unwanted alternating current (ac) between two parts of a system while still enabling signal and power transfer between those two parts. We also offer technical product support to ensure ongoing assistance. With a large range of products from high-quality manufacturers, including Amphenol RF, Radiall and RS PRO, you won't be short on choice.įor help or advice, simply get in touch and our experts will be on hand to answer any questions you have about your RF attenuator or RF isolator product needs. With a range of options for RF attenuators and RF isolators, you can be sure to find the right product for your circuit needs. You can also choose a gold, nickel, or tarnish-resistant finish. It's easy to filter your search results on our drop-down menus based on manufacturer, type, attenuation level and impedance required. A BNC attenuator, however, is often a choice for larger cables. As an example, the RF isolator SMA is a popular configuration which is mainly used for small cables and less spacious circuits. We stock a wide range of RF attenuators and isolators in a variety of specifications and configurations. A coaxial isolator is used in a cable to isolate one part of a circuit. A drop-in isolator is used in instances where the input and output ports match on a micro-strip circuit board.

Types of RF isolatorĪn RF isolator is either a drop-in isolator or a coaxial connector isolator. The level can be changed in stages, and they can often be used in test equipment where the signal level needs to be varied at certain intervals. Switched RF attenuatorsĪs the name suggests, these are made up of switches which allow varying levels of attenuation.

They can either be analog or digital, depending on their function. By altering the voltage, the attenuation can be changed and set to a specific level, allowing for continuous change. These attenuators allow for adjustment of the attenuation level. Levels can range from 0.4dB up to 20dB with a 10dB RF attenuator being one of our main attenuator products. There are various attenuation levels available for these products, depending on your electronic attenuator requirements. These are made to attenuate a specific amount of signal which will stay fixed.

RF attenuators can be fixed, variable or switched and the type will depend on the attenuator function. Read on to discover more about the different types of RF attenuators and isolators. It can isolate power at the second port whilst making sure the power is transmitted from port one to port two. They are also used to optimize the power transfer from source to load by reducing signal strength and converting energy into heat.Īn RF isolator, also a two-port device, protects RF equipment or components in a system from signal reflection and isolates one part of a circuit from the other. Some RF attenuators can be simple devices, while others are more complex. Often used to stop a circuit from receiving too high a signal, they can be an important part of many electrical applications, including testing equipment.

RF attenuators are two-port electrical components that reduce the level of the signal in radio frequency applications, also known as 'attenuating'.

Ac rf isolator