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Benefits of RFoF:
•
Low signal loss: Optical fibers have extremely low attenuation and
significantly lower attenuation than coaxial cables, allowing longer
transmission distances without signal loss.
•
EMI resistance: Optical fibers are immune to electromagnetic interference.
They also require no lightning protection.
Radio frequency over fiber (RFoF)
Leveraging the advantages of HUBER+SUHNER
RF over fiber transmission solutions
RF-over-fiber (RFoF) technology uses light to transmit analog radio
frequency signals over optical fiber. Conversion modules are therefore
required at both ends of the fiber link. Conversion modules are either
optical transmitters (TX) with RF input and light output or optical receivers
(RX) with light input and RF output. RFoF offers many advantages over
transmitting RF signals over coaxial cables.
HUBER+SUHNER is one of very few firms in the world that has the
expertise and experience to combine radio frequency and fiber optics into
a single solution. Our designs are characterized by low noise and high
linearity. Single-mode optical fibers provide low attenuation and low
dispersion effects. We recommend angled optical connectors for low
optical refection in the fiber and stable high performance
•
High bandwidth: Optical fibers can transmit a wide range of
frequencies simultaneously. Their attenuation does not increase even at
high carrier frequencies.
•
Lightweight and flexible: Optical fibers are lighter and more flexible
than coaxial cables, making installation easier.
•
Durability: Optical fibers are resistant to corrosion.
The insertion of an optical transmitter (electrical-to-optical signal converter)
and an optical receiver (optical-to-electrical signal converter) allows to
connect the source and the destination location by fiber optic cable. The
optical transmitter (TX), the FO cable assembly and the optical receiver
(RX) together build the RFoF (RF over fiber) system.
Applications
HUBER+SUHNER RFoF links can be used in countless application scenarios especially wherever high bandwidth and long distances challenge conventional
RF transmission. Outstanding noise performance, high bandwidth and long-range performance make them an ideal option for analog signal transmission, for
example in astronomy radio telescope applications. Wether in 5 G mobile networks, industrial applications, Satcom ground stations, radar antenna array
remoting and other defence solutions HUBER+SUHNER RFoF systems can be customized to meet the challenging requirements.
GNSSoF timing solution
The GNSS over Fiber solution not only offers the transmission of accurate timing information from satellite GPS
signals, but also enables the power supply of the active antenna via fiber. Transmitting GNSS signals over fiber is
allowing high flexibility and scalability in signal distribution from receiving antennas towards the GNSS receivers.
Lab Automation by managed, modular RFoF system
5G and 6G mobile communication equipment testing continuously replace coaxial cables by RFoF links to
enable higher RF frequency operation. The HUBER+SUHNER managed and modular RFoF system is
prepared for time-saving automated lab setup and eliminates manual cable patching when applied together
with HUBER+SUHNERs optical circuit switches.
Hardened RFoF and GNSS solutions for Defense and Industry
The Defense sector is increasingl relying on RFoF when long distances and EMI-prone environments shall be
bridged with RF signals. Hardened RFoF solutions support increasing RF frequencies to accommodate greater data
loads for remote antenna connection, radar applications including antenna arrays with high phase noise
requirements and tethered payloads. GNSS signal transport for location and timing appliances can be offered with
PWoF (power-over-fiber) option.
Contact
Do you have questions and would like a personal
consultation?
3x in Germany
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