Spectrum Control bias tees with SMA connectors combine DC bias and RF signals onto a single transmission line while keeping the DC and RF paths isolated. Their compact, coaxial design supports easy integration into RF and microwave systems for powering active components without disrupting signal performance.
Engineered for reliable broadband operation, these bias tees provide low insertion loss, high isolation, and consistent electrical performance. SMA interfaces simplify connection to standard test equipment and system hardware, making them well suited for amplifiers, antennas, modulators, laboratory testing, and other applications requiring DC power to be applied through an RF signal path.
Bias Tees - Performance & Selection
How it Works
A bias tee combines DC power and an RF signal onto a single transmission line. An internal inductor directs DC to the combined port while blocking RF, and a capacitor passes the RF signal while preventing DC from reaching the RF-only port.
Understanding Bias Tees Performance
Unlike a filter that selects a specific portion of the RF spectrum, an SMA bias tee combines or separates DC power and RF signals while maintaining isolation between the RF and DC ports. Key performance factors include:
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Frequency Range: Defines the RF frequencies the bias tee can pass.
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RF Performance: Low insertion loss and VSWR help maintain signal quality and minimize reflections.
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DC Rating & Isolation: Ensure the voltage and current ratings meet system requirements while preventing RF energy from entering the DC port.
By allowing RF signals and DC power to share a single coaxial path, an SMA bias tee simplifies system integration while maintaining reliable electrical performance.
Why it Matters
Bias tees simplify RF system design by allowing DC power and RF signals to share one coaxial connection. This reduces cabling and component count while helping protect sensitive equipment and maintain reliable signal performance.
Part Number |
Freq. Range (GHz) | Insertion Loss (dB) | Current (A) | DC Voltage | Connector Configurations |
| 8800S | 10 MHz - 12 | 0.50 - 3.00 | 2.5 | 100 max. |
M/F, M/M,
F/F, F/M
|
| 8810S | 50 kHz - 26.5 | 1.50 - 3.00 | 0.75 | 25 max. |
M/F, M/M,
F/F, F/M
|
| 8820S | 500 MHz - 2.5 | 0.50 - 1.00 | 7 | 100 max. |
M/F, M/M,
F/F, F/M
|
| 8860S | 30 MHz - 12 | 0.50 - 3.00 | 3 | 100 max. |
M/F, M/M,
F/F, F/M
|
Bias Tees - SMA Connectors - How it Works
Combining RF Signals and DC Power Through a Single Connection.
An SMA bias tee uses separate internal paths for the RF signal and DC power. The RF signal passes through a series capacitor, which allows high-frequency signals to continue while blocking DC from entering the RF-only port.
DC power enters through the DC port and passes through an inductor, also called an RF choke. The inductor allows DC to reach the combined port while preventing RF energy from traveling back toward the DC power source.
The two paths meet at the combined port, allowing the RF signal and DC power to travel through the same coaxial connection. This makes it possible to power amplifiers, antennas, and other active RF components without requiring a separate power cable.
- Series capacitor: Passes RF and blocks DC
- RF Choke: Passes DC and blocks RF
- Combined Port: Carries RF and DC through one connection
Typical Applications
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RF and microwave test and measurement
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Low-noise amplifier biasing
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Active antenna powering
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RF transistor and MMIC biasing
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SATCOM and wireless communication systems
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Radar and electronic warfare systems
- Optical modulators and photodiodes
- Remote device powering over coaxial cables
Why Choose Spectrum Control?
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Proven RF and microwave expertise
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Broad frequency range options
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Low insertion loss
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Low VSWR
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High port-to-port isolation
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Multiple voltage and current ratings
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Compact, rugged coaxial construction
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Engineering and customization support