RF repeater

RF repeater Overview

Like all the data communication systems the data reliability is the one of the most important issue to be considered. In wireless systems the data reliability mainly depends upon transmitted waves. For longer distance transmissions the amplitude of the transmitted wave decreases. This phenomenon is known as attenuation. In RF systems to cater this problem RF repeaters are used. Basic functionality of an RF repeater is the same as a Network repeater apart from the fact that it serves only for Radio Waves. Amplification of the attenuated RF signals is the job of an RF repeater. It does not amplify the noise in the signal but only the information signal. This is the reason it is called repeater not amplifier.

RF repeater within a System

RF repeaters are deployed between two antennas (RF receiver and RF transmitter). They offer bi-directional amplification without noise (amplification in both directions from receiver to transmitter and transmitter to receiver). RF repeaters are deployed at higher elevations such as tall buildings or mountains. Besides amplifier capabilities RF repeaters also contain transmitter, receiver, feed line, large antennas, modulators, frequency converters, signal generators, power supplies, and signal processors.

RF repeater types

You can find two common types of RF repeaters. These are microwave RF repeaters and linear RF repeaters. Both repeaters can support optical as well electronic signals in a variety of modulation formats. These repeaters can overcome almost all possible signal hindrances including large buildings and mountains. Also cater for signal degradation and attenuation for longer distances. Microwave repeaters offer frequencies between 1.5 GHz to 11 GHz. 6, 7, and 8 GHz are the frequency bands extensively used in telecommunications.

RF repeater Applications

RF repeaters are used in variety of industrial applications. Examples include telephone companies, telecommunication system operators, energy companies such as electronics industry, military, aviation, government agencies, and wireless operators.

RF switches

Like wired networks routing of the information is also major concern in wireless networks. In RF networks RF switches or RF routers manage routing of radio frequency signals. Switching speed, insertion loss, VSWR, isolation, and frequency rang are important performance specifications. Insertion loss for RF switch is the amount of transmitted signal's energy loss when an RF switch placed in the path of transmission line. Frequency range specification defines the switching frequencies. Switching time is the amount of time an RF switch takes to send the RF signals to the specific wave-guide. Other specifications that can affect the performance of an RF switch include the technology used for development and design, actuator specifications, and connector types. Connectors allow the RF switch to attach with the RF systems or attach other devices to the switch. These include SMA, SMB, SMP, Type F, Type N, UHF, mini UHF, BNC, MCX, MMCX, and numbered connectors (1.5 / 5.6, 7 / 16).