WR-08 Sliding Matched Termination
The WR-08 Sliding Matched Termination is a precision-engineered waveguide component that features an adjustable absorbing element for isolating and measuring residual reflections in test setups. It is specifically designed for the 90 - 140 GHz frequency range, serving as a critical building block in F-Band infrastructure.
The absorbing wedge is attached to a micrometer. By physically sliding the wedge back and forth, the phase of the termination reflection changes, allowing engineers to mathematically cancel out system errors. WR-08 (F-Band, 90-140 GHz) is famous for the 94 GHz atmospheric window, making it the premier choice for high-resolution cloud-mapping radar and advanced plasma diagnostics.
Key Features
Adjustable Match
Sliding mechanism allows precise positioning of the absorptive element for optimized impedance matching at the target frequency.
Calibration Grade
Designed to calibration kit standards for use as a matched load reference in TRL and other calibration procedures.
Low Residual VSWR
When properly adjusted, achieves very low return loss for accurate reference plane establishment and measurement confidence.
Precision Mechanism
Smooth, low-friction sliding action with precision-machined internal bore for repeatable, accurate adjustments.
F-Band Use Cases
Cloud Radar
94 GHz weather mapping
Plasma Diagnostics
Fusion reactor monitoring
Sub-THz Research
Advanced materials science
Active Denial
Directed energy systems
More Sliding Matched Terminations
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the termination need to slide?+
No termination is perfect. By sliding the load over at least one-half wavelength, you can observe the phase ripple of the imperfection on a VNA. You can then mathematically separate the reflection of the load from the reflection of the actual device under test.
What is the 94 GHz atmospheric window?+
While mmWave frequencies generally suffer from high atmospheric attenuation, there is a natural "window" at exactly 94 GHz where attenuation drops significantly. WR-08 components are used to build 94 GHz cloud radars that can see through fog and map weather patterns with incredible resolution.
How are WR-08 components manufactured?+
The internal dimensions of WR-08 are 0.080" x 0.040" (about 2mm x 1mm). They cannot be easily cast. They are typically electroformed (growing copper chemically over an aluminum mandrel) or precision-machined using specialized micro-milling bits to ensure perfect geometry.