Signal generation is a critical component of most highfrequency systems. Oscillator suppliers are being asked to develop higher-performance solutions in smaller packages, to meet the needs of multi-mode, multiband wireless communications systems. In response, Synergy Microwave (www.synergymwave.com) has developed its latest series of compact, surface-mount voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) for systems with demanding phasenoise requirements. One of the first members of the new series is the model DCRO80100-12, designed for use from 800 to 1000 MHz. It is supplied in a tiny surface-mount package measuring just 0.5 x 0.5 x 0.170 in.

The model DCRO80100-12 surfacemount VCO delivers better than +10 dBm output power from 800 to 1000 MHz. Typical measured phase noise is -85 dBc/Hz offset 1 kHz from the carrier, -120 dBc/Hz offset 10 kHz from the carrier, and -158 dBc/Hz offset 1 MHz from the carrier.

The model DCRO80100-12 leverages the company’s innovative compact- coupled-planar-resonator (CCPR) VCO technology as well as its patent-pending REL-PRO(R) packaging concept. In contrast to conventional three-dimensional (3-D) tunable oscillator structures based on dielectric and SAW resonators, Synergy’s CCPR technology lends itself to extremely low-profile surface-mount designs that are also well suited to integrated-circuit (IC) implementations. In addition, the low mass of the CCPR oscillators makes them ideal for applications in severe environments, under high shock and vibration conditions.

The REL-PRO packaging technology offers an effective means of achieving good electrical and ground connections while also supporting restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS) manufacturing processes. The patentpending REL-PRO contacts and solder pads enable good electrical connections even when using reflow processes at temperatures below standard levels. REL-PRO solder pads feature 50-mil holes drilled through the package solder pads that provide a means of quickly inspecting the integrity of reflow-solder connections. In addition, the REL-PRO packages comply with JEDEC J-STD-020 for lead-free solder process, as well manual or automatic placement and attachment with leadfree solder pastes. To help with install-ation, Synergy offers Application Note AN7200 and AN7300 on package-mounting guidelines for free download from its web site.

The model DCRO80100-12 VCO offers outstanding lining linearity with fine-grain control of output frequency by means of a wide 0 to +24-VDC control voltage range. The tuning sensitivity is typically 8 to 10 MHz/V in the operating-frequency range. Across the tuning range, the output power remains flat to within +/-1 dB from 800 to 1000 MHz.

The surface-mount VCO has an output impedance of 50 Ω and typically suppresses harmonic content by 12 dB. The maximum frequency pulling with load impedance is 3 MHz (for a VSWR of 1.75:1) while the maximum frequency pushing with supply line variations is 1 MHz/V. The model DCRO80100-12 is rated for operating temperatures from -55 to +125 °C. The firm offers evaluation boards for the DCRO80100-12 and other of its VCOs, built on high-quality Duroid 4003 printed-circuit-board (PCB) material from Rogers Corp. (www.rogerscorporation.com). In addition to the model DCRO80100-12 VCO, the company offers low-phase-noise VCOs in the same package size for optimized tuning bands ranging from 500 to 3000 MHz.

Synergy Microwave Corp.
201 McLean Blvd.
Paterson, NJ 07504
(973) 881-8800
FAX: (973) 881-8061
e-mail: sales@synergymwave.com
Internet: www.synergymwave.com.