Agilent Technologies Inc.’s two new FET single-pole double-throw (SPDT) solid-state switches are designed for switching RF signals up to 18 GHz. Low video leakage, high isolation and fast settling time make these switches well suited for semiconductor manufacturing system test and R&D. The Agilent U9397A and U9397C FET switches operate from 300 kHz to 8 GHz and 300 KHz to 18 GHz, respectively. In contrast to a conventional PIN switch, which has a typical video leakage of 1000 mVpp, Agilent's new FET switches have inherently low video leakage of less than 10 mVpp. While not a widely considered parameter, video leakage can cause significant damage to sensitive components and devices under test, according to Agilent.

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The new FET switches also incorporate a patented design that results in fast settling time of less than 350 microseconds measured to 0.01 dB. The fast settling time improves throughput in high-speed RFIC manufacturing test. Another key characteristic of these new switches is exceptionally high port-to-port isolation, specified at greater than 90 dB. Such isolation minimizes cross-talk between signal paths to ensure accurate testing and better yield.

The Agilent U9397A and U9397C FET solid-state switches are available. And cost $800 for the U9397A and $1070 for the U9397C switch.