The art of handling microwave frequencies (up to 110 GHz)

Riding the microwave has its rewards but has never been easy. The rewards are considerable. The combination of frequencies well into the gigahertz range with wavelengths measured in millimeters provides the basic physical properties needed to meet the insatiable demand for communications systems with ever more bandwidth, as well as passing easily through the atmosphere.

There are downsides, too. The absorption of microwaves by water molecules introduced an entirely new method of heating food – the microwave oven. The same property also represents a health risk, as well as meaning that microwave communications are subject to interference by rain and snow. To reap the benefits of riding the microwave, the effects of signal degradation and loss must be managed, as well as the associated power consumption and overheating problems.

From the early applications of microwaves for radar, the advantage of increased bandwidth has been a deciding factor in shifting toward microwave for communications technologies. This started with satellite transmissions and then came down to earth with cable television and Wireless Local Area Network protocols from Bluetooth® to WiFi. All modern computers feature chips running at low microwave frequencies.

The demands for microwave test and measurement equipment are even more exacting than for the devices themselves. Rohde & Schwarz has long been one of the world’s few suppliers of full-scope microwave T&M equipment up to 110 GHz. We offer a broad portfolio of products including signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and power meters, plus accessories. We also offer EMC test equipment in the microwave range up to 40 GHz.

No matter whether you are dealing with pulsed, swept or modulated signals in the microwave range, our instruments generate and analyze to the highest accuracy – quickly, reliably and with high quality. Our solutions support you every step of the way from R&D through certification, production and service. The art of handling microwave frequencies (up to 110 GHz)