Covering the frequency range from 0.1 to 40 GHz, the new ATD series of tunnel diode detectors from Atlantic Microwave Ltd. offers the system designer flat frequency response and a low rise time in a miniature coaxial package, without the need for external bias.

With a high stability specification of +/-0.5 dB typical over the operating temperature range of -55 to +100°C, these 50-Ohm detectors are available in 22 models with ultra wide bandwidths up to multiple octaves. For example, the 1-18 GHz model provides a sensitivity of 700 mV/mW combined with a tangential sensitivity of –50 dBm and frequency flatness of +/-1 dB maximum.

Rise time for all models is less than 5 nanoseconds, and video output characteristics include 125 Ohm typical resistance for throughout and 20 pF capacitance for the 1-18 GHz unit. Standard output polarity is negative, but positive output is optional at no extra cost.

The detectors come in stainless steel housings with SMA or 2.92 mm connectors, male RF input and female video output, to MIL-C-39012 and with the ability to operate in environments of 50g shock for 11 ms and 20 g vibration over 100-2000 Hz.