In the microwave frequency range, a power divider is a passive device used to distribute the input signal power to multiple output ports in a certain proportion. They are widely used in communication systems, radars, test equipment, and other applications that require precise control of signal distribution. The design and implementation of microwave power dividers usually rely on specific technologies and structures to ensure efficient operation and good electrical performance in the high frequency band.

　　Main types of microwave power dividers

　　Wilkinson Power Divider:

　　This is one of the most common forms of microwave power dividers, named after its inventor Ernest Wilkinson.

　　It consists of two branches of equal impedance, each of which is connected to a quarter-wave matching resistor to absorb unbalanced signals, thereby ensuring high isolation between the input ports.

　　Features include low insertion loss, high isolation, and good phase balance.

　　Branchline Coupler:

　　Uses two mutually perpendicular transmission lines to achieve power distribution or combination at the intersection.

　　It has a 90-degree phase difference characteristic, which is very useful in some applications, such as orthogonal modulation and demodulation.

　　Circulator:

　　Although not a typical power divider, it can be used to build a power divider, especially when unidirectional operation is required.

　　It has three or four ports, and the signal can only be transmitted from one port to the next port in a predetermined direction, but not in the opposite direction.

　　Magic-T:

　　It is a special configuration of waveguide, combining the T-type joints of the E-plane and the H-plane, which can effectively combine signals from different directions without reflection.

　　It is suitable for a variety of applications such as power synthesis and signal separation.

　　Microstrip Power Dividers:

　　Made using microstrip technology on printed circuit boards, it is suitable for miniaturized designs and easy to integrate into more complex circuits.

　　Including but not limited to structures such as λ/4 transformers and star networks.

　　Hybrid Couplers:

　　Also known as directional couplers, they can provide power distribution and signal monitoring functions at the same time.

　　It can be designed as a 3 dB bridge or other proportional distribution ratio.

　　Design Considerations

　　Frequency Range: Choose products that are suitable for the frequency range of specific applications to ensure good performance.

　　Insertion loss: Try to choose products with low insertion loss to maintain high signal strength.

　　Isolation: For multi-port distributors, high isolation can effectively reduce interference between different signals.

　　Phase consistency: In some applications, such as phased array antenna systems, a strictly consistent phase relationship needs to be maintained.

　　Power handling capacity: Select the appropriate model according to the maximum power level actually used, especially in transmitter applications.

　　Size and weight: Consider the space limitations and portability requirements of the installation location.

　　Environmental adaptability: Equipment used outdoors should have a good level of protection, such as waterproof and dustproof.

　　Manufacturing process

　　The production of microwave power dividers involves precise microwave engineering technology and material science. Common manufacturing processes include:

　　Microstrip and stripline technology: used to build miniaturized and efficient power distribution circuits.

　　Surface mount technology (SMT): suitable for mass production and automated assembly.

　　Ceramic substrates and metal shielding covers: provide excellent electrical performance and mechanical stability.

　　Welding and brazing: ensure a strong and reliable electrical connection between components.

　　Testing and calibration: Finished products must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet specifications and are adjusted for optimal performance during the calibration process.

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