Compact dual-channel radio frequency power sensor for solid state amplifiers

Abstract

Abstract This paper describes a novel design with measured performance and large-scale deployment of compact, weakly coupled, wide band (300–700 MHz), high power, through-line directional sensor. It was required in large number for the measurement of forward and reflected powers, in high-power solid-state radio frequency amplifiers, in the centre. Unlike common directional couplers, its output data can be displayed directly in dBm unit using a PC or any controller with serial interface, without needing any external level detection and processing unit. In order to measure high power, main line of the coupler is designed with rigid coaxial structure, aperture coupled to a microstrip like secondary line. The signals at coupled and isolation ports are internally processed by a microcontroller circuit for streaming it through serial interface. The advantages gained in this design are: repeatable performance, low insertion loss (