The Keysight 34946A (formerly Agilent) is a high-performance microwave switch module designed for use with the 34980A Multifunction Switch/Measure Unit. Featuring dual independent 1x2 (SPDT) terminated coaxial switches, it provides bi-directional signal routing from DC up to 26.5 GHz. With excellent insertion loss, outstanding isolation, and low VSWR, this module is optimized for high-frequency testing applications including multi-band receiver/transmitter verification. An external switch driver option (Option 100) is also available to support external microwave switches, maximizing system configuration flexibility.
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | Mainframe backplane interface; external switch drive signals (Option 100) |
| Display | None (status displayed on 34980A mainframe) |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | Powered by 34980A mainframe backplane |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 °C |
RF Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Switch Configuration | Two independent 1x2 (SPDT) terminated coaxial switches |
| Frequency Range | DC to 4 GHz (Option 001), DC to 20 GHz (Option 020), DC to 26.5 GHz (Option 026) |
| Nominal Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Unused Port Termination | 50 Ohms |
| Connector Type | SMA (female) |
| Maximum Switching Power | 1 W |
| Insertion Loss (DC to 4 GHz) | < 0.3 dB |
| Insertion Loss (4 to 20 GHz) | < 0.7 dB |
| Insertion Loss (20 to 26.5 GHz) | < 1.0 dB |
| Isolation (DC to 4 GHz) | > 100 dB |
| Isolation (4 to 20 GHz) | > 70 dB |
| Isolation (20 to 26.5 GHz) | > 60 dB |
| VSWR (DC to 4 GHz) | < 1.15 |
| VSWR (4 to 20 GHz) | < 1.35 |
| VSWR (20 to 26.5 GHz) | < 1.70 |
| Switch Lifetime | 5,000,000 cycles (typical) |
| Repeatability | 0.03 dB (typical) |
System Integration
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Compatible Mainframe | Keysight / Agilent 34980A |
| Slot Requirement | 1 slot in 34980A mainframe |
| External Switch Support | Option 100 provides drive capability for up to two external coaxial switches |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature Range | -40 °C to 70 °C |
| Operating Humidity | Up to 80% R.H. at 40 °C (non-condensing) |
Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Switching Speed | < 15 ms |
| Switch Type | Latching coaxial |
Technology
Electromechanical RF/Microwave Switching
Applications
Automated RF and microwave signal routing, multi-band transmitter/receiver testing