Can coaxial switches be used in space - limited applications such as wearable devices
Coaxial Switches for Wearable Devices
Coaxial switches are viable for space-limited applications like wearable devices, thanks to advanced miniaturization and design innovations. Key solutions include:
1. Tiny Form Factors
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Subminiature designs:
- SMP switches (2–3 mm²)
- RF MEMS switches (1 mm³)
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Chip-scale packages (Analog Devices, Skyworks):
- Solder directly to PCBs
- Heights under 1 mm
Applications: Smartwatches, AR headsets, and other compact wearable devices.
2. Low-Power Performance
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Solid-state switches (MOSFETs, PIN diodes):
- Power draw <1 mW
- Preserve battery life in fitness trackers
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Efficient signal routing:
- Between antennas (BLE, NFC)
- Low insertion loss (<0.5 dB up to 6 GHz)
3. Ruggedized Design
- Hermetically sealed enclosures
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Flex-resistant connectors:
- IP67-rated SMP connectors
- Withstand motion and moisture
Applications: Medical patches, smart clothing, and other wearables requiring reliable RF connections during daily use.
4. Integration Challenges
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Thermal management:
- Thin-film heat pads
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High-precision assembly:
- Required for sub-1 mm components
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Cost considerations:
- MEMS and SMT advancements reducing costs
- Becoming viable for mass-market wearables
Applications: Smart glasses, health monitors, and other consumer wearables.
Summary
Coaxial switches' advantages for wearables:
- Compact size through advanced miniaturization
- Low-power operation preserving battery life
- Reliable performance in demanding conditions
These characteristics make them ideal for modern wearable tech with strict size constraints.