Contrary to popular belief, power splitters and power dividers are NOT the same thing! The fact that both of them are passive radio frequency elements, and have similar names has caused a bit of confusion in most circles. To put an end to this, we’ve written a short piece analyzing the difference between the two.
The Fundamental Difference:
The biggest difference between power dividers and power splitters is the configuration of the resistors. If you take a look at the circuit diagrams below, you can spot this fundamental difference for yourself.
The power divider (on the left) uses three resistors to divide power. This is great for applications where one power source must split and fed to different components to ensure phase coherence.
On the other hand, power splitters (on the right) utilize a two-resistor configuration which makes them the ideal choice for leveling and ratio measurements. Furthermore, when used in reverse, a power splitter can effectively be used as a power combiner.
That being said it’s worth keeping in mind that inputs to the power combiners should be kept 90 degrees out of phase with each other!
Applications of Power Splitters and Dividers:
The applications of power splitters and dividers are virtually limitless. Here are a few of the most important ways these circuits are currently being utilized.
1. Wilkinson Power Divider
By far, the most commonly used application of a power splitter is the Wilkinson Power Divider. This device makes use of two λ / 4 transmission lines. Both these lines are fed input from the same source while the output ports are terminated.
As it can be used to achieve the effect of isolation between its output ports, the Wilkinson Power Divider has a variety of different applications, ranging from minimizing cross talk in radio frequency communication systems to printed circuit boards!
2. Hybrid Coupler:
When a unidirectional power splitter divides power equally between its two output ports, the resulting configuration is called the hybrid coupler. For those of you who don’t know, power in a coupled transmission line flows in the opposite direction as compared to original (main) transmission line.
For a hybrid coupler to achieve its intended effect, the coupling must be set to be 3 decibels. Once again, the two output ports have a phase difference of 90 degrees, which has led many people to label this configuration as the 90-degree hybrid.
Where to Find Power Splitters and Dividers:
If you want to use power splitters or power dividers in your radio frequency communication systems, transmission lines, or any other circuit, make sure that the product you’re opting for is of the highest quality. If you’re having trouble locating a premium quality power splitter or divider, why not try browsing through our incredible library?
We at ADSANTEC go the extra mile to ensure that every product advertised on our website is of the highest quality. This allows us to guarantee that our clients only use the best electrical components available on the market today. On top of power splitters and dividers, we also house an impressive collection of variable delay lines, phase shifters, and much more!