Coaxial Termination
Coaxial termination (also known as dummy load) is an RF component that is used to absorb RF signals and prevent them from reflecting from open-ended or unused cable terminals. These terminations have the same characteristic impedance as that of the co-axial cable (e.g., 50 ohms or 75 ohms). A standard coax termination consists of a resistor with a heat sink which allows RF signals received by the termination to be dissipated without impacting the system.
If an open-ended co-axial terminal is not terminated, signals can reflect into the system, which can introduce distortions and other undesirable effects. Coaxial termination can also be used as a dummy load in testing scenarios, such as testing a transmitter before the antenna is connected.
Based on the mechanism used to dissipate the absorbed RF energy, there are two types of coax terminations, Dry and Oil-filled. Dry termination uses the conductive properties of RF-absorbing material to transfer the energy out and away from the line, through the body of the termination. Dry termination is ideal for use in a low-power application (tens/hundreds of watts). Oil-filled termination uses oil to cool the system and dissipate excess energy and is ideal for use in high-power applications (thousands of watts).
Important Parameters when looking for Coaxial Terminations:
- Operating Frequency: It is the operating frequency range for which the device is fully functional and provides the best performance.
- Impedance: Represents the characteristic impedance of the coaxial termination (in ohms).
- Power Handling: It is the maximum power that the device can safely handle without any damage (in Watts/dBm).
- VSWR: VSWR is a measure of reflection in a transmission line. Lower VSWR is better; it implies a lower mismatch (i.e., RF signal reflection will be low in a transmission circuit).
- Connector Type: Coaxial terminations are available with various connector options such as BNC, N-type, SMA, SMB, SMP, TNC, etc.
everything RF lists Coaxial Terminations from the leading manufacturers. Use the parametric search tools to narrow down products based on your requirement. Once you find parts that meet your specification, download the data sheet, compare products and request quotations. Inquiries sent via everything RF are directed to the manufacturers who get back to you with a quote or information.
