60 GHz Resonator for Characterizing Solid Materials
High-Precision Material Dielectric Constant and Loss Tangent Testing
The RCL Microwave 60 GHz Resonator is an advanced measurement tool designed for characterizing materials with high sensitivity. It only requires 6 mm x 4 mm x 2 mm test sample to fill the measurement cavity, making it ideal for precise material characterization in applications like R&D, quality control, and production monitoring.
Highly Sensitive Design
Capable of detecting small changes in Dielectric Constant (ε′) and Loss Tangent (tan δ), ensuring precise material characterization.
Ideal for Multiple Applications:
R&D material characterization
Quality Assurance monitoring
In-tolerance and out-of-tolerance quality control
Injection molding process monitoring
Production monitoring for mold injection curing and tolerance levels
Waveguide Flange Interface
Comes with two standard WR-15 waveguide flange interfaces for compatibility with existing test setups.
Fully Passive Design
Integrates seamlessly into any two-port 67 GHz / 70 GHz VNA and WR-15 Waveguide Test Setups without additional power requirements.
Software Included
RCL Microwave leads the industry in broadband dielectric characterization with thin film capability to 20 microns
Available in standard RF Connectors or PCB Mount connectors
For Broadband Dielectric Characterization, Automotive Collision Avoidance Antennas, and Base Station Antennas
Benefits
- High Reliability Measurement:
The measurement process does not interact with the external environment, ensuring highly reliable results. - Consistent Results:
Measurements are independent of the surface it rests on, providing repeatable and stable data. - User-Friendly:
The system is easy to use and requires minimal maintenance. The resonator is also easy to clean, making it low-maintenance for everyday use.
How it works
The RCL Microwave Resonator operates by measuring resonance frequency and amplitude changes. These changes are highly sensitive to variations in the dielectric constant and loss tangent of the material under test.
Dielectric Constant (ε′)
Determined by the shift in frequency (Δf). As the dielectric constant of the material increases, the resonance frequency shifts to the left.
Loss Tangent (tan δ)
Determined by the change in amplitude (Δa). As the loss tangent increases, the amplitude of the resonance increases.
The relationship between frequency and amplitude changes is well-understood and predictable, making this system highly reliable for accurate measurements.
Example: Plant Tag Measurement
Test Setup:
- Test Equipment: Rohde and Schwarz 70 GHz VNA
- Material Tested: Plastic Plant Tag
- Test Fixture Resonant Frequency (Empty): 69.189 GHz
- Frequency Shift: From 69.189 GHz to 61.351 GHz (due to dielectric constant)
- Amplitude Shift: From -44 dB to -29 dB (due to loss tangent)
Results:
- Dielectric Constant (ε’) of Plant Tag: 2.439
- Loss Tangent (tan δ) of Plant Tag: 0.0028
These shifts are easily detected, and the system operates with an S21 measurement > 60 dB above the noise floor, offering highly accurate results. When compared to other methods which can signal amplitudes 20 dB or 30 dB above the receiver noise floor, leading to lower measurement accuracy.
Why Choose RCL Microwave 60 GHz Resonator?
Extremely Accurate
High signal-to-noise ratio ensures precise measurements.
Easy Integration
Works seamlessly with existing VNA setups.
Ideal for Small Samples
Only 6 mm x 4 mm x 2 mm of material required.
Specifications
Parameter
Value / Description
Operating Frequency
50–75 GHz (WR-15 band)
Unloaded Resonant Frequency
~69 GHz (typical)
Sample Volume Required
~6 mm x 4 mm x 2 mm
Waveguide Interface
WR-15 standard flange (×2)
Device Type
Fully passive, two-port resonator
Compatible Instruments
Any 67 GHz / 70 GHz VNA
Measured Properties
Dielectric Constant (ε′), Loss Tangent (tan δ)
Sensitivity
Detects small changes in ε′ and tan δ; high-Q resonance
S21 Dynamic Range
~60 dB above noise floor (typical)
Material Compatibility
Gold plated and PTFE for corrosion resistance against many liquids; methods available for bubble mitigation
Sample Holder Dependency
Measurement independent of beaker/container & support surface
Cleaning / Maintenance
Easy to clean; low-maintenance design
Software
Analysis and resonance-tracking software included
Construction
Precision-machined resonant cavity
Dimensions
~3” x ~2.5” x ~1” / ~75 mm x ~63 mm x ~25 mm
Weight
Approximately 450 grams
This design requires a test sample of the following dimensions:
6.02 mm x 3.68 mm x 1.8 mm
0.237” x 0.145” x 0.071”
Figure 1: Illustrates a test sample made in a High-Volume Injection Mold for monitoring Production Quality
Figure 1: High Volume Injection Mold with a WR-15 Test Sample for Monitoring Material Properties
Contact Us
877-387-6125
ryan@rclmicrowave.com
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