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Directional Couplers

Directional couplers extract a defined sample of forward or reflected RF power while the main signal continues to the load. They are used for power monitoring, leveling loops, VSWR protection, calibration paths and RF fixtures.

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Directional Couplers
Power Amplifier TestingPower amplifier testing shows how an RF power module behaves on the bench and in a controlled load path, including output power, gain, flatness, harmonics, spurious response, VSWR tolerance, current, temperature and protection events.RF Component CharacterizationRF component characterization measures individual devices and modules on controlled benches before they are placed into larger signal chains.
PA Characterization BenchPA characterization benches measure RF power amplifier behavior under controlled frequency, drive, load, supply and thermal conditions. Typical benches combine sources, meters, couplers, loads, fixtures, bias supplies, protection monitoring and calibration.Pulsed Radar Power ChainPulsed radar power chains generate RF output during defined pulse width, duty cycle and waveform conditions. The transmit path combines pulsed power amplification, coupling, monitoring, protection and thermal recovery.Transmitter Power Amplifier ChainA transmitter power amplifier chain raises a controlled RF or microwave drive signal to the output level required by an antenna, load or test interface.Power Combining NetworkPower combining networks combine RF energy from amplifier branches or divide one signal into parallel paths while preserving ratio, phase, impedance and isolation in amplifier platforms, phased arrays and RF test systems.

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Articles

RF power divider and coupler hardware connected in a microwave measurement setup
RF Power Distribution EngineeringHow to Select RF Power Dividers, Combiners and Directional Couplers

A practical method for choosing RF dividers, combiners and directional couplers from signal-flow purpose, topology, frequency range, balance, isolation, directivity, match and real power conditions.

FAQ

What is the difference between an RF power divider and a directional coupler?

A divider creates two or more controlled output paths, while a directional coupler samples a defined fraction of a travelling wave and preserves a main through path.

How do coupling factor, directivity and return loss affect forward and reflected-power accuracy?

Coupling factor sets the sampled level, directivity limits separation of forward and reverse waves, and return loss determines how strongly the coupler and its interfaces disturb or re-reflect the signal. Detector accuracy alone cannot define the accuracy of a forward/reflected-power measurement.

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Directional Couplers

A directional coupler samples energy travelling in a defined direction on an RF line. The coupled port provides a lower-level signal for measurement or control while the through path carries the main power.

System role

Directional couplers appear in transmitter monitoring, amplifier protection, antenna measurement, calibration paths and automated RF benches where the main signal path should remain active.

Engineering factors

  • Coupling value and directivity determine how accurately the sampled signal represents the travelling wave.
  • Insertion loss and return loss affect the through path.
  • Mainline power rating, frequency range and connector interface define where the coupler can be installed.