Product Head

Introducing VDI's Mini VNA Extension Modules

Our industry leading modules have been reduced to 1/4th the volume of previous modules and the power supply has been simplified. Key applications include probe stations and antenna ranges.

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mm-wave and THz Signal Generation

These modules provide high performance frequency extension of microwave signal generators into the THz range. Models are currently available from 50GHz - 1,500 GHz and offer industry leading power and frequency coverage.

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Custom Transmit and Receive Systems from 50GHz to 3 THz

VDI Custom Systems can be configured for maximum output power and sensitivity and can be tailored to customer requirements.

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mm-wave and THz Signal Analysis

These modules provide high performance frequency extension of microwave spectrum analyzers into the THz range. Models are currently available from 50GHz - 1,500 GHz. Can also be used for block down conversion.

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VNA Extension Modules that Bridge the THz Gap

These modules provide high frequency extension of vector network analyzers into the THz range. Models are currently available from 50 GHz - 1,500 GHz and feature unmatched power and dynamic range.

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VDI Introduces the New PM5 Power Meter

The Erickson Power Meter is a waveguide dry calorimeter designed to be a primary standard for power measurements throughout the mm-submillimeter range. Learn more about the Erickson PM5; the successor to the PM4.

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VDI Modular Signal Generation up to 1.1THz

With interchangeable components, VDI Modular AMCs can provide continuous coverage to about 1THz.

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Product Head

W-Band and G-Band Diodes

OVERVIEW

Our planar diodes are available as single devices or as multiple devices arranged in series, anti-series and anti-parallel configurations. These diodes provide state-of-the-art performance and reliability. Under the Diodes tab are pricing charts for our W-Band and G-Band Diodes. Within the chart are links to the specifications for each part name. Notes shown below refer to specifications common to all parts. VDI can provide 2-3 week delivery on diodes. Please call for additional information on other types of diodes.

VDI Notes on Diode Mount and Solder
The notes linked above are some general guidelines and details that may be helpful when flip-chip mounting/soldering VDI diodes to circuits. The procedure noted here is essentially the procedure used by VDI. The VDI diode solder contact pads are Au thin films. Process times and temperatures are variable and depend upon the Customer’s circuits or substrates being used. This outline is simply intended to give some general guidelines for diode flip-chip mounting and soldering.

VDI Notes on Diode Specifications (VDI-1004)
The notes linked above describe how to interpret VDI diode specifications.

All diode orders ship with a specification sheet. Current/Voltage data for each die shipped can be included for a $300.00 surcharge which must be included as a separate line item on the purchase order. One surcharge applies to every order of 500 die or less; above 500 die there is an additional surcharge for every additional 500 die.

Specifications common to all diodes types:

Maximum operating temperature: 80°C
Maximum storage temperature: 100°C
Maximum dissipated power assuming appropriate heat sinking: 5dBm for ZBD, 10dBm for Single Anode, 13dBm for Anti-Parallel and Tee
ESD classification: 100 Volts HBM (Human Body Model)

DIODES

VDI W-Band Diode Chip Pricing
Part Name	Type	Individual	100+	200+	400+	1,000+
W-Band Single Anode	Detector / Mixer	$100	$35	$25	$20	$15
W-Band ZBD	Zero-Bias Detector	$100	$35	$25	$20	$15
W-Band Anti-Parallel	Anti-Parallel Mixer	$100	$35	$25	$20	$15
W-Band Tee	Tee Diode	$100	$35	$25	$20	$15
Minimum Diode Order per Part Name/Type: $2,000.00

VDI G-Band Diode Chip Pricing
Part Name	Type	Unit Price
G-Band Single Anode	Detector / Mixer	$200
G-Band ZBD	Zero Bias Detector	$200
G-Band Anti-Parallel	Anti-Parallel Mixer	$200
G-Band Tee	Tee Diode	$200
Minimum Diode Order per Part Name/Type: $2,000.00

To place an order, send your purchase order to [email protected].

RESOURCES

VDI Notes on Diode Specifications (VDI-1004)
The notes linked above describe how to interpret VDI diode specifications.

Specifications common to all diode types:

Maximum operating temperature: 80°C
Maximum storage temperature: 100°C
Maximum dissipated power assuming appropriate heat sinking: 5dBm for ZBD, 10dBm for Single Anode, 13dBm for Anti-Parallel and Tee
ESD classification: 100 Volts HBM (Human Body Model)

Diode Models
Keysight ADS, AWR Corp. MWO (Microwave Office) and Keysight Genesys models for the W Band Single Anode and W Band ZBD diodes can be accessed at the Modelithics, Inc. website.

"MODELITHICS, INC. is a leading-edge technology company that provides comprehensive RF, microwave and mm-wave measurement services, and highly scalable, accurate, measurement-based models of electronic components for high frequency design. Modelithics models capture complex characteristics and parasitic effects of RF and MW components and designs. They offer scalable design parameters, such as substrate scaling, pad scaling and part value scaling, plus adjustable input parameters such as bias and temperature for active devices models. This provides for accurate matching to designers' applications. The models also work with optimization processes offered in certain EDA software. These features lead to increased first-pass design success and a more efficient design process.

Through the Modelithics Vendor Partner Program (MVP), Modelithics collaborates with RF component and semiconductor device manufacturers by developing top quality models for their products.

Questions? Contact VDI at [email protected]

Spectrum Analyzer Extension Modules

OVERVIEW

Description

Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) Spectrum Analyzer Extension (SAX) modules provide high performance broadband down-conversion and frequency extension of microwave spectrum analyzers into the THz range. VDI SAX modules offer full waveguide band coverage and are available from WR28 (26 to 40 GHz) to WR1.0 (750 to 1100 GHz) with additional bands under development.

For spectrum analyzer extension mode, this turn-key, sweepable solution is compatible with most modern spectrum analyzers with external mixer option. For block down- and up-conversion, the SAX modules can be driven by an LO signal generator that meets the input frequency and power requirements. Contact VDI for spectrum analyzer extension compatibility.

Standard Features

- Full waveguide band coverage

- Low-conversion loss and noise figure

- Broadband IF up to 40 GHz for block down-conversion.

- 6" x 3.5" x 1.5" enclosure suitable for standalone operation or mounting on optical tables and probes

- 9V DC power supply included

Options

- IF input port for block up-conversion

- Amplifiers and filters for use with up-conversion option

- External Micrometer driven variable attenuator (~0-30dB)

- Output horn antenna for free space coupling

- Waveguide test port extensions (1" and 2" available)

- High Sensitivity (Please contact VDI for more information)

Mini SAX

VDI Mini SAX Standard Product List
VDI Part #	Band (GHz)	Typical SSB Conversion Loss (dB)	Maximum IF Frequency (Typical, GHz)^†
VDI Part #	Band (GHz)	Intrinsic Mixer,*	Maximum IF Frequency (Typical, GHz)^†
WR0.65SAX-M	1,100 - 1,500	33	40
WR1.0SAX-M	750 - 1,100	25	40
WR1.5SAX-M	500 - 750	18	40
WR2.2SAX-M	330 - 500	14	40
WR2.8SAX-M	260 - 400	13	40
WR3.4SAX-M	220 - 330	12	40
WR4.3SAX-M	170 - 260	11	26
WR5.1SAX-M	140 - 220	11	22
WR6.5SAX-M	110 - 170	10	17
WR8.0SAX-M	90 - 140	10	14
WR10SAX-M	75 - 110	10	11
WR12SAX-M	60 - 90	10	9
WR15SAX-M	50 - 75	10	7.5
WR19SAX-M	40 - 60	9	6
WR28SAX-M	26 - 40	9	4

*Intrinsic mixer conversion loss is measured before any IF amplification.
**Maximum conversion loss of WR-15, WR-12 and WR-10 SAX-M is 4dB at the
High IF Port after IF amplification.
^† For block down-conversion mode only. Maximum IF bandwidth is limited to 20 GHz when
up-conversion option is added.
For more information about the Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL), please refer to the
SAX Product manual located on the Resources tab.

RESOURCES

Product Manuals and Specifications

SAX-M (Mini SAX) Product Manual
SAX-M Specification Sheet
SAX High Sensitivity (HS) Datasheet

SAX Product Manual (Discontinued)

Application Notes

VDI SAX Modules - Installation and Quick Start Guide
Noise Figure Measurement Setup with VDI Noise Source and SAX Modules

Mechanical Drawings

For Mini SAX (SAX 899 and lower), Old, Discontinued Units:
WR28 to WR19: .pdf and .stp
WR15 to WM-250: .pdf and .stp

For Mini SAX (SAX 900 and higher):
WR28 to WR19 (with feet): .pdf and  .stp
WR28 to WR19 (without feet): .pdf and  .stp
WR15 to WM-250 (with feet): .pdf and  .stp

WR15 to WM-250 (without feet): .pdf and .stp

Relevant Links

Precision Flange

Waveguide Designation

Feedhorn Designation

Power Meters - Erickson

Compatible with Keysight Signal Analyzers:

VDI SAX modules are compatible with Keysight PXA, MXA, and EXA signal analyzers. Click here for more information.

Waveguide Filters (BPF, LPF, HPF)

BAND PASS FILTERS

VDI offers up-converter modules for communication applications. The double sideband nature of the up-converter modules makes filtering necessary. VDI has designed filters to filter one sideband and preserve signal modulation. These filters offer low passband insertion loss and high out-of-band rejection. Custom filters may be available upon request. NRE (non-recurring engineering) fee may be required.

Band Pass Filters
VDI Part Number	Waveguide Band	Pass Band (GHz)	Insertion Loss
WR28BPFE27.5-28.35	WR28	27.5-28.35	< 2 dB
WR28BPFE37-40	WR28	37-40	< 1 dB
WR19BPFE45.5-52.6	WR19	45.5-52.6	< 1 dB
WR15BPF50.1-57.7	WR15	50.1-57.7	< 1 dB
WR15BPF57.2-65.9	WR15	57.2-65.9	< 1.5 dB
WR15BPF57.2-59.4	WR15	57.2-59.4	< 1.5 dB
WR15BPF59.4-61.6	WR15	59.4-61.6	< 1.5 dB
WR15BPF61.5-63.8	WR15	61.5-63.8	< 1.5 dB
WR15BPF63.7-65.9	WR15	63.7-65.9	< 1.5 dB
WR15BPF65.8-68.1	WR15	65.8-68.1	< 1.5 dB
WR15BPF68.0-70.2	WR15	68.0-70.2	< 1.5 dB
WR12BPF64-71	WR12	64-71	< 1 dB
WR12BPF66-73	WR12	66-73	< 1 dB
WR12BPF71-76	WR12	71-76	< 1 dB
WR12BPF76-81	WR12	76-81	< 1.5 dB
WR12BPF81-86	WR12	81-86	< 1 dB
WR6.5BPF116-123	WR6.5	116-123	< 1.5 dB
WR6.5BPF134.5-149.5	WR6.5	134.5-149.5	< 1.5 dB
WR6.5BPF140-148	WR6.5	140-148	< 1.5 dB
WR6.5BPF140-160	WR6.5	140-160	< 1.5 dB
WR6.5BPF152-162	WR6.5	151.5-161.5	< 1.5 dB
WR3.4BPF245-275	WR3.4	245-275	< 2 dB
WM710BPF280-310	WM710	280-310	< 2 dB
WM710BPF315-345	WM710	312.5-348	< 2 dB

Typical Band Pass Filter Performance Plots
For more data, please refer to the Band Pass Fiter Product Manual (see the Resources tab).

Contact [email protected] for more information.

FULL BAND BPF

Virginia Diodes, Inc. offers a broad range of millimeter-wave, band pass filters (BPFs). VDI full waveguide band BPFs are intended to be used to reject undesired out-of-band harmonics for VDI Signal Generator Extension Modules or other similar transmitter / source modules. Custom band pass filters may be available upon request. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Product Specifications for Full Waveguide Band, Band Pass Filters
VDI Part Number	Pass Band (GHz)		-20dB Cutoff Frequency		Typical Insertion Loss (dB)	Maximum Insertion Loss (dB)	Return Loss (dB, typ)	Flange
VDI Part Number	Start	Stop	Start	Stop	Typical Insertion Loss (dB)	Maximum Insertion Loss (dB)	Return Loss (dB, typ)	Flange
WR15BPF50-75	50	75	48	78	0.5	1	-20	WR-15
WR12BPF60-90	60	90	58	94	0.5	1	-20	WR-12
WR10BPF75-110	75	110	70	118	0.5	1	-20	WR-10
WR6.5BPF110-170	110	170	105	177	0.5	1	-20	WR-6.5
WR5.1BPF140-220	140	220	135	230	0.75	1.5	-20	WR-5.1
WR4.3BPF170-260	170	260	164	271	1	1.5	-20	WR-4.3
WR3.4BPF220-330	220	330	213	343	1.25	2.5	-15	WR-3.4
WM570BPF330-500	335	500	~315	~525	1.5	3	-15	WM-570

HPF / LPF

Product Specifications for Low Pass and High Pass Filters
VDI Part Number	Pass Band (GHz)		-20dB Cutoff Frequency	Typical Insertion Loss (dB)	Maximum Insertion Loss (dB)	Return Loss (dB, typ)
VDI Part Number	Start	Stop	-20dB Cutoff Frequency	Typical Insertion Loss (dB)	Maximum Insertion Loss (dB)	Return Loss (dB, typ)
WR12LPF75	60	75	77.5	0.5	1	-20
WR12HPF75	75	90	73	0.5	1	-20
WR10LPF90	75	90	93	0.5	1	-20
WR10HPF90	90	110	86	0.5	1	-20
WR8.0LPF115	90	114.5	119	0.75	1.5	-20
WR8.0HPF115	115.5	140	112	0.75	1.5	-20
WR6.5LPF140	110	140	145	0.75	1.5	-20
WR6.5HPF140	140	170	135	0.75	1.5	-20
WR5.1LPF167	140	166	172	1	2	-20
WR5.1LPF180	140	180	186	1	2	-20
WR5.1HPF163	163	220	157	1	2	-20
WR5.1HPF174.8	176	220	170	1	2	-20
WR4.3HPF200	200	260	194	1	2	-20
WR3.4LPF270	220	270	278	1	2	-20
WR3.4HPF270	270	330	258	1	2	-20

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Portable Spectrum Analyzer Extenders (PSAX)

OVERVIEW

Description

Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) Portable Spectrum Analyzer Extension (PSAX) Modules are used to extend the performance of modern handheld / portable spectrum analyzer solutions (e.g. Keysight FieldFox) in the frequency range from 50 GHz through 170 GHz, in frequency bands from WR-15 (50-75 GHz) to WR-6.5 (110-170 GHz). Higher frequency PSAX modules are available. An external battery or power supply may be needed to operate higher frequency PSAX modules.

Direct Connect to Keysight FieldFox Analyzers

The VDI PSAX Module is designed to connect directly to the RF Ports on the Keysight FieldFox Analyzers. The IF connector on the PSAX module can be adjusted laterally to be compatible with the LO and IF port spacings of all Keysight FieldFox analyzers.

PSAX

VDI PSAX Module Specifications
Description	WR15PSAX	WR12PSAX	WR10PSAX	WR8.0PSAX	WR6.5PSAX
RF Frequency Band (GHz)	50-75	60-90	75-110	90-140	110-170
RF Power Limits (dBm, P1dB, est. / Damage, typ.)	-10 / +17	-10 / +17	-10 / +17	-10 / +13	-10 / +13
Maximum IF Frequency (GHz)	7.5	9	10	10	10
SSB Conversion Loss (typ.)	-8	-8	-8	-7	-7
Noise Figure (dB, typ.)	12	12	12	13	13
LO Harmonic Factor	6	6	6	12	12
Current Draw (mA, typical, @ +5.5V)	300	300	500	550	600

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Integrated Receivers

OVERVIEW

Integrated MixAMC (MixAMC-I)

Virginia Diodes' standard Spectrum Analyzer Extension (SAX) modules provide high performance broadband down-conversion and frequency extension of microwave spectrum analyzers into the THz range. VDI now offers integrated MixAMC modules that provide industry leading performance in a compact package. These integrated MixAMC modules can be used to down-convert millimeter-wave / THz signals only. Spectrum Analyzer Extension mode is not currently available for the MixAMC-I products. Integrated MixAMC modules utilize a low frequency LO input (<20 GHz) and have a separate IF output port. These modules are configured for high IF bandwidth.

General MixAMC-I Technical Notes:
-MixAMC-I products require a user supplied voltage.
-MixAMC-I products are shipped with a heat sink and fan, but may be removed. If heat sink is removed, user must provide sufficient heat sinking. Maximum case temperature should not exceed 45°C.
-All LO input and IF connectors are 2.9mm(f).
-LO Input Damage Limit for the Standard Multiplication Factor configuration is 6dBm. Contact VDI for damage limits for alternative multiplication factors.
-Standard configuration includes a ~100kHz-40GHz IF amplifier, gain ~12 dB @ ~300 MHz. There is no direct access to mixer IF port.
-User can choose to remove the IF amplifier from the MixAMC-I. If the IF amplifier is removed, the IF port is extremely ESD sensitive. To choose this option, add -N to the part name of the Purchase Order. For example, for WR10MixAMC-I with no IF amplifier, customer must specify WR10MixAMC-I-N on the Purchase Order.
-No test port is included with the module. Contact VDI for pricing on test ports (1" and 2" test ports are available).
-Intrinsic mixer conversion loss is specified at IF~322.5MHz, loss increases at a rate of ~1.5dB/10GHz up to the specified maximum IF.

Options

- Micrometer driven RF Attenuator (~0 - 30dB)
- Horn Antenna
- Waveguide Test Port Extensions (1" and 2" options available)

Contact [email protected] for more information.

INTEGRATED MixAMC

VDI MixAMC-I Standard Product List
VDI Part #	Band (GHz)	Frequency Multiplication Factor	SSB Conversion Loss (dB, typical)		RF Power Limits: Compression/Damage (dBm)	Maximum Available IF Bandwidth (GHz)
VDI Part #	Band (GHz)	Frequency Multiplication Factor	MixAMC-I	MixAMC-I-N	RF Power Limits: Compression/Damage (dBm)	Maximum Available IF Bandwidth (GHz)
WR1.0MixAMC-I	750 - 1,100	72	13	25	-20/-10	40
WR1.5MixAMC-I	500 - 750	54	6	18	-10/0	40
WR2.2MixAMC-I	330 - 500	36	2	14	-10/0	40
WR2.8MixAMC-I	260 - 400	24	1	13	-10/0	40
WR3.4MixAMC-I	220 - 330	24	0	12	-10/0	40
WR4.3MixAMC-I	170 - 260	24	-1	11	-10/0	26
WR5.1MixAMC-I	140 - 220	12	-1	11	-10/0	22
WR6.5MixAMC-I	110 - 170	12	-2	10	-10/0	17
WR8.0MixAMC-I	90 - 140	12	-2	10	-10/0	14
WR10MixAMC-I	75 - 110	6	-2	10	-10/0	11
WR12MixAMC-I	60 - 90	6	-2	10	-10/0	9
WR15MixAMC-I	50 - 75	6	-2	10	-10/0	7.5

Contact [email protected] for more information.

CUSTOM

Virginia Diodes offers custom products that provide industry leading performance in a compact package. Here is an example:

874 GHz Receiver and 183 GHz Receiver
Description: These receivers are part of a system used to measure cloud ice in partnership with NASA and MIT. These receivers offer excellent performance with low conversion loss.
Click here for more information.

Contact [email protected] for more information.

CONTACT

Virginia Diodes, Inc.
979 Second Street, S.E. Suite 309
Charlottesville, VA 22902-6172
P: 434.297.3257 F: 434.297.3258

Introducing VDI's Mini VNA Extension Modules

mm-wave and THz Signal Generation

Custom Transmit and Receive Systems from 50GHz to 3 THz

mm-wave and THz Signal Analysis

VNA Extension Modules that Bridge the THz Gap

VDI Introduces the New PM5 Power Meter

VDI Modular Signal Generation up to 1.1THz

Product Head

W-Band and G-Band Diodes

OVERVIEW

DIODES

RESOURCES

Spectrum Analyzer Extension Modules

OVERVIEW

Mini SAX

RESOURCES

Waveguide Filters (BPF, LPF, HPF)

BAND PASS FILTERS

FULL BAND BPF

HPF / LPF

RESOURCES

Portable Spectrum Analyzer Extenders (PSAX)

OVERVIEW

PSAX

RESOURCES

Integrated Receivers

OVERVIEW

INTEGRATED MixAMC

CUSTOM

RESOURCES

VDI PRODUCTS

NEWS

Traceable PM5B up to 170 GHz

VNA Extension Modules with Higher Test Port Power

Innovator Spotlight - Revolutionizing Terahertz Measurements for 6G

Waveguide-Based THz Standards and Metrology

CONTACT