Are there any coaxial switches suitable for use in high - altitude environments
Specialized Coaxial Switches for High-Altitude Environments
Specialized coaxial switches are designed for high-altitude environments, addressing challenges like low air pressure, extreme temperatures, and radiation. Key features include:
Rugged Construction for Low Pressure
High-altitude applications require switches with special designs to prevent dielectric breakdown in low-pressure conditions.
- Hermetic sealing (welded metal enclosures) maintains internal pressure
- Air-dielectric or PTFE-insulated coaxial structures preserve signal integrity
- Altitude ratings up to 15,000 feet (operational) and 50,000 feet (storage)
MPG/Dow-Key Microwave's Reliant series switches are specifically engineered for aerospace applications with these altitude capabilities.
Temperature and Vibration Tolerance
Switches must withstand extreme environmental conditions encountered at high altitudes.
- Wide temperature range operation (-65°C to +85°C)
- Military-grade materials: gold-plated contacts, nickel-plated steel actuators
- Reinforced designs resist vibration and shock during flight operations
CEI's aerospace switches and Pickering Interfaces' reinforced designs are specifically tested for these extreme conditions.
Radiation and EMI Resistance
Upper atmosphere and space applications require special protection against radiation effects.
- Radiation-hardened components (e.g., silicon carbide PIN diodes)
- Metallic shielding (gold/copper) for EMI protection
- Hermetic sealing for vacuum environments
Teledyne Relays' hermetic switches and API Technologies' space-grade models incorporate these radiation protection features.
Certifications and Applications
High-altitude switches meet rigorous industry standards for reliability.
- Compliance with MIL-STD-810G (environmental) and RTCA/DO-160G (aviation)
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Applications include:
- Airborne radar systems (X-band signal handling)
- Stratospheric drones (lightweight designs)
- Satellite communications (vacuum-rated switches)
Mini-Circuits' ZMS series for drones and Keysight's 8517D for satellite applications.
Leading manufacturers like those below offer coaxial switches validated for altitudes up to 70,000 feet, ensuring reliable RF signal routing in extreme environments: