Link Microtek dual-channel rotary joint for airborne satcom systems

The engineering division of Link Microtek has introduced a dual-channel rotary joint that is specifically aimed at applications in Ka-band satellite communications systems on board aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicles.

The AM28RJUD device features a WR28 waveguide channel for transmissions in the 26.5 to 40 GHz frequency band at up to 100 W CW, combined with a DC-2 GHz coaxial channel for receive signals.

The rotary joint complies with the relevant requirements of the RTCA DO-160 [AD/1] specification, which details environmental conditions and test procedures for airborne equipment - covering parameters such as temperature, pressure, humidity, shock and vibration.

To operate at the high frequencies of the Ka band, the device necessarily has small physical dimensions: it measures 42 mm between waveguide flanges and has an overall length of 120 mm between coaxial connectors.

The non-contacting design of the waveguide channel makes for an inherently high power handling capability of 100 W CW, together with a VSWR of 1.2:1 and a typical insertion loss of 0.6 dB. The coaxial channel has a VSWR of 1.5:1 and an insertion loss of less than 0.4 dB, while isolation between the two channels is better than 65 dB.

Available fabricated in either aluminium or brass as standard, the device can be specified with a variety of different coaxial connectors, including SMA, N-type and TNC. As an option, the device can also be supplied with an integral slip-ring assembly.