Meeting Broadband Design Demands with Ultra-Compact Balun Solutions
Designing for broadband RF systems presents a unique set of challenges, particularly when dealing with signal integrity, space constraints, and the need for high-performance conversion of signals. Engineers working in Test and Measurement, Telecom infrastructure, and Mil-Aero applications face constant pressure to integrate more functionality into smaller footprints—all while maintaining exceptional linearity and isolation. At the center of many of these systems are RFSoCs, ADCs, and DACs, which require clean, balanced signals for optimal performance. This makes the role of broadband BALUNs (balanced-to-unbalanced transformers) more critical than ever.
Selecting the right BALUN isn’t just about matching impedances. In their selection, designers must consider common mode rejection, minimizing amplitude and phase imbalances, and preserving signal fidelity across wide frequency spans. When you add in mechanical constraints like board height and assembly compatibility, the design window narrows even further.
Introducing the XMB0465Z1-50100G: High Performance in a Miniature Footprint
To address these challenges, TTM Technologies has introduced the XMB0465Z1-50100G, a 400–6000 MHz ultra-small, low-profile 1008 BALUN designed for the realities of today’s broadband RF systems. With a 50Ω unbalanced input and 100Ω balanced output, this transformer is optimized for direct interfacing with differential inputs on RFSoCs, ADCs, DACs, and integrated chipsets.
Constructed from ceramic-filled PTFE composites and qualified through rigorous RF and environmental testing, the XMB0465Z1-50100G offers exceptional CMRR, tight amplitude balance, and low insertion loss, all in a 1.03 mm height profile. This enables engineers to maintain high electrical performance without sacrificing valuable board real estate or production efficiency.
Whether you’re designing a high-frequency converter module or building compact instrumentation for the field, this transformer simplifies differential signal conversion while maintaining system integrity.
What are the key features/specifications of the XMB0465Z1-50100G?
- Ultra-broadband performance: 400–6000 MHz
- Impedance: 50Ω unbalanced to 100Ω balanced
- Compact 1008 footprint, only 1.03 mm profile
- Class-leading CMRR: 25 dB
- Tight amplitude balance: ±0.9 dB
- Low insertion loss (<7 dB)
- Non-conductive surface; ENIG finish
- RoHS compliant and halogen-free
- Production-friendly Xinger SMT package
- 100% RF tested for quality assurance
What are common markets/applications?
- Test and Measurement equipment
- Telecom infrastructure and mobile systems
- COTS Mil-Aero RF systems
- Converters using RFSoCs, ADCs, and DACs
Related Products
XMB0220K1-50100G
Ultra-compact broadband BALUN, 50Ω to 100Ω, optimized for RFSoCs, ADCs, and DACs – similar in function to the XMB0465Z1-50100G but with different electrical/mechanical characteristics.
XMC0102L3-03S
Low-profile 3 dB hybrid coupler, tailored for Land Mobile Radio (LMR) and VHF applications, offering controlled coupling and minimal insertion loss.
XMC4450E3-03G
C-Band hybrid coupler with precise power splitting/combining capabilities, designed specifically for Mil-Aero applications.
C6N50Z4B
Cost-effective RF termination, ideal for 5G, LTE, ISM, and Mil-Aero, while maintaining RoHS compliance.
Learn More about these Product Releases from this Press Release from TTM Technologies.
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About Tim Daniels
Tim Daniels is the Director of Technical Solutions & Product Strategy at RFMW, specializing in RF Power transistor and MMIC technologies. With over 20 years of RF industry experience, Tim is a chartered engineer and holds a master’s degree in electronics innovation and a bachelor’s degree in electronics with communications. His expertise enables him to provide comprehensive design recommendations and technical support for RFMW’s customers. Tim enjoys working with engineers from around the globe to find innovative solutions to new challenges. He is a licensed UK radio amateur and, in his spare time, experiments on the VHF and Microwave bands.
