Microlab expands tapper range with additional values

Microlab's two new models of tappers offer minimal reflections or loss over the wireless bands.

-- Test & Measurement World, 1/21/2010 7:00:00 AM

Two new models join Microlab's DN series of tappers, offering split ratios of 100:1 and 1000:1 with 20 dB and 30 dB of inequality between outputs, respectively. According to the manufacturer, the tappers are cost-effective replacements for directional couplers in both outdoor and in-building distributed-antenna systems.

Devices in the DN series of tappers unevenly split high-power cellular signals in fixed ratios, ranging from 2:1 (3.0 dB) to 1000:1 (30 dB), with minimal reflections or loss over the wireless bands in the range of 350 MHz to 2700 MHz, including Tetra, PMR, cellular, UMTS, WiFi, and WiMAX. The company claims that all of the tappers provide much improved VSWR over previous tapper designs and are 50% lower in price than equivalent directional couplers. Guaranteed PIM (passive intermodulation) performance of all models is less than -150 dBc. Other specifications include an average power rating of 500 W (3 kW peak) and dissipative loss of 0.1 dB maximum (main line).

The tappers are available with either N or 7-16 DIN connectors. Special options accommodate different genders and even a mixture of the two connector types. Their lightweight design allows easy attachment to a wall using the supplied bracket. What's more, the tappers are manufactured with only a few solder joints and an air dielectric, which minimizes loss and enhances reliability.

The DN-x4FD series of IP67-rated, RoHS-compliant tappers is available for evaluation from Microlab and selected distributors.

Microlab, www.microlabfxr.com.