Model XC0450A-03
Rev B
4-Way Splitter/Combiner Network
* 50Ω
Term.
* 50Ω
Termination
Amplitude and
Phase tracking
Devices
Input
* 50Ω
Termination
* 50Ω
Termination
Amplitude and
Phase tracking
Devices
Output
* 50Ω
Termination
* 50Ω
Term.
The splitter/combiner networks illustrated above use only 3dB (hybrid) couplers and are limited to binary divisions (2 n
number of splits, where n is an integer). Splitter/combiner circuits configured this way are known as “corporate”
networks. When a non-binary number of divisions is required, a “serial” network must be used. Serial networks can be
designed with [3, 4, 5, ….., n] splits, but have a practical limitation of about 8 splits.
A 5dB coupler is used in conjunction with a 3dB coupler to build 3-way splitter/combiner networks. An ideal version of
this network is illustrated below. Note what is required; a 50% split (i.e. 3dB coupler) and a 66% and 33% split (which is
actually a 4.77dB coupler, but due to losses in the system, higher coupler values, such as 5dB, are actually better
suited for this function). The design of this type of circuit requires special attention to the losses and phase lengths of
the components and the interconnecting lines. A more in depth look at serial networks can be found in the article
“Designing In-Line Divider/Combiner Networks” by Samir Tozin, which describes the circuit design in detail and can be
found in the White Papers Section of the Anaren website, www.anaren.com.
3-Way Splitter/Combiner
1/3 Pin
* 50Ω
Termination
5 dB (4.77)
coupler
1/3 Pin
3 dB coupler
Pin
G=1
2/3 Pin
1/3 Pin
* 50Ω
Termination
2/3 Pin
1/3 Pin
G=1
* 50Ω
Termination
3 dB coupler
5 dB (4.77)
coupler
1/3 Pin
* 50Ω
Termination
1/3 Pin
Pout
G=1
*Recommended Terminations
Power (Watts) Model
8
15
50
100
RFP-060120A15Z50
RFP-250375A4Z50
RFP-375375A6Z50
RFP-500500A6Z50
USA/Canada:
Toll Free:
Europe:
(315) 432-8909
(800) 411-6596
+44 2392-232392
Available on Tape and
Reel for Pick and Place
Manufacturing.
ANAREN [ ANAREN MICROWAVE ]
