WR-15 Straight Waveguide
The WR-15 Straight Waveguide is a precision-engineered waveguide component that provides ultra-low loss linear signal transmission for bridging gaps in RF systems. It is specifically designed for the 50 - 75 GHz frequency range, serving as a critical building block in V-Band infrastructure.
Straight waveguide sections are drawn or electroformed to exact tolerances, providing a pure, unperturbed environment for dominant TE10 mode propagation over fixed distances. WR-15 spans the 50-75 GHz V-Band. Its 0.148" x 0.074" dimensions are the standard for 60 GHz commercial backhaul networks and inter-satellite links (ISL) in low earth orbit constellations.
Key Features
Low Insertion Loss
Engineered for minimal insertion loss and excellent Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) across the full V-Band.
Gold Plated Finish
Gold plating provides superior corrosion resistance and ensures long-term signal reliability in demanding environments.
OFHC Copper Body
Oxygen-free high conductivity copper waveguide body with precision-machined brass flanges for superior performance.
Custom Lengths
Available in standard lengths. Custom dimensions manufactured to your exact system requirements on request.
Common Use Cases
Satellite Cross-links
In-orbit ISL data transfer
60 GHz ISM
Commercial backhaul
Auto Radar Test
Early generation sensors
Radiometry
Earth observation
More Straight Waveguides
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use a straight waveguide instead of coaxial cable?+
At millimeter-wave frequencies, coaxial cables suffer from extreme dielectric loss and radiation leakage. A hollow straight waveguide removes the center conductor and dielectric, reducing insertion loss by over 80% compared to a coax cable.
How is WR-15 used in space applications?+
WR-15 is the standard for Inter-Satellite Links (ISL) in V-Band. Because there is no oxygen in space to absorb the 60 GHz signals, satellites can transmit massive amounts of data to each other using WR-15 feed networks and high-gain antennas without interference from Earth-based signals.
Are WR-15 components difficult to manufacture?+
Yes. At 75 GHz, the wavelength is only 4 millimeters. A manufacturing defect of just 0.1 mm inside a WR-15 component acts as a massive impedance mismatch. All RF Essentials WR-15 products undergo strict metrology and vector network analyzer testing.