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"Inventing For Tomorrow"
SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION
ROUTE, REINFORCE, & SHIELD
ABOUT
We live in a communications-based world. Obtaining information from multiple sources and delivering it to the appropriate customer as quickly as possible is our constant objective. The core element of signal distribution is its switching implementation. These systems go by many names—Switch, Switch Matrix, Router, etc.—but the most important factor is selecting the best switch architecture for your system.
THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS
GENERAL NOTE
At ARS products, we believe that understanding the theoretical underpinnings of our technology is not only imperative for designing robust systems that maintain functionality and performance in various electromagnetic environments, but equally valuable for our customers to understand in order to make informed decisions about their purchases, particularly regarding scope, purpose, and function. While our team of experts help guide and tailor solutions based on the varying needs of our customers throughout the product development and manufacturing process, we are passionate about highlighting both the capabilities and potential limitations of RF systems from a theoretical standpoint.
introduction
Signal Distribution Systems are integrated systems capable of routing multiple source signals (such as antennas and front-ends) to multiple destinations (such as receivers and modems), either locally or remotely. Some architectures allow for simultaneous distribution to multiple destinations. In many cases, distribution systems must deliver the same signal to multiple customers, requiring faithful signal reproduction for each user. To achieve this, ARS designs and manufactures its own high-dynamic-range amplification and switching assemblies.
There are various ways for a signal to travel from Point A to Point B. The choice of topology directly impacts the functionality that the switch matrix can provide in a customer’s application.
EVOLUTION OF SOLUTIONS
ARS continuously develops amplifier and switching elements, each iteration adds bandwidth, dynamic range, size reduction and cost reduction.
APPLICATION
Test equipment routing typically uses Non-Blocking Architectures (Fan-Out=1). Reception service providers typically use Full-Fan-Out architectures. Earth stations typically use Full-Fan-In and Full-Fan-Out architectures
UNDERSTANDING KEY PERFORMANCE NEEDS
Other key factors in the selection of the switching system must also include balancing dynamic range and isolation. Typically Front End Routers require the highest inter-modulation performance, with mid-level isolation (50-70 dB). Intermediate Frequency (IF) Routers require mid-level inter-modulation performance, with higher signal isolation (60-90 dB).
In concept, the signal flow is quite simple; just route the signal from Point A to Point B. This is where the simplicity ends. In order for the signal to arrive at Point B with the highest fidelity, it must pass through amplification and switching circuits that introduce minimum distortion. The primary goal is high dynamic range: the lowest noise figure, and the highest inter-modulation intercept points.
switch matrix features
1. EASY TO LIVE WITH:
Many ARS switch matrices are modular, allowing for quick configuration and rapid serviceability. A key feature is the easy access to power supply modules.
2. HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE:
Achieving the lowest noise figure with the highest intermodulation intercept points. ARS Products designs and manufactures specialized amplifiers and switch circuits to meet the needs of systems that require or benefit from high performance levels.
3. ROUTING TOPOLOGIES:
Getting signals from Point A to Point B (and C and D). ARS Products utilizes several topologies, including Klos Architectures, to deliver high-performance solutions at economical prices.
MATRIX TOPOLOGIES
BLOCKING MATRIX
The Blocking Matrix topology (shown below) limits the number of simultaneous paths in the matrix.
Example, when Input 2 is routed to Output 3, other paths between other inputs and outputs may be unavailable.
NON-BLOCKING MATRIX
The Non-Blocking Matrix topology (shown below) allows for multiple simultaneous paths but no paths may share an input or an output.
Example, input 1 is routed to Output 3, Input 2 is routed to Output 2 and Input 4 is routed to Output 1. At this point Input 3 is un-routable.
FULL FAN OUT MATRIX
The Full Fan Out Matrix topology (shown below) allows for multiple simultaneous paths and allows outputs to share inputs.
Example, Input 1 is routed to Output 2 and Input 1 is also routed to Output 3. At this point, Input 4 (or any other input) can be routed to other available outputs.
Full Fan Out matrices are typically used at Downlink or receive sites.
FULL FAN IN MATRIX
The Full Fan In Matrix topology (shown below) allows for multiple simultaneous paths and allows inputs to share output (input signals are combined into a shared output).
Example, Input 2 is routed to Output 1 and Input 3 is also routed to Output 1. At this point in time Output 1 (or any other output) can be routed to other available inputs.
Full Fan In matrices are the complement to the Full Fan Out topologies and are typically used at Uplink or transmission sites.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Please review the ARS Application notes on switch matrix types.
