A Proven Partner in High-Reliability RF Systems
Radiall is widely known for its leadership in RF and microwave connectivity, but in recent years, the company has established itself as a critical supplier to the fast-evolving quantum computing sector. Leveraging decades of experience in aerospace, defense, and harsh-environment applications, Radiall is uniquely positioned to meet the demands of quantum hardware, especially in one of the most challenging areas of system design: cryogenic switching.
As quantum computing moves toward scalable, commercially viable platforms, hardware developers are increasingly focused on performance deep inside the dilution refrigerator, or “chandelier.” In this space, mechanical movement, thermal loads, and material properties are all tightly constrained. With its heritage in RF switches and precision electromechanical assemblies, Radiall has developed a specialized portfolio of cryo-compatible products that are unmatched in the market.
Solving Cryogenic Switching Challenges
Switching signals inside a dilution refrigerator presents extraordinary engineering hurdles. Conventional RF switch technologies often rely on guideposts and physical sliding contacts, designs that fail when exposed to cryogenic temperatures due to material contraction, mechanical wear, and particulate contamination. Radiall addressed this problem head-on by adapting its patented RAMSES™ magnetic actuation technology for cryogenic use.
Rather than relying on friction-based mechanisms, RAMSES switches use magnetic coupling to actuate internal RF blades. This eliminates mechanical wear, reduces debris generation, and ensures repeatable performance over millions of cycles, even at temperatures approaching absolute zero. According to Radiall’s engineering team, their cryogenic switch design is currently the only one qualified and proven to operate reliably inside the coldest layers of the cryostat, directly adjacent to the quantum processing unit (QPU).
This isn’t just an incremental improvement; it’s a fundamental leap forward. In working cryogenic quantum systems, reliability is mission-critical. Downtime for thermal cycling can take several days, and component failure at the deepest cryogenic stage can jeopardize the integrity of an entire experiment. Radiall’s switch design minimizes that risk with rugged construction, magnetic actuation, and proven cryo-compatibility.
A Comprehensive Cryo Component Portfolio
Beyond switching, Radiall supports quantum computing customers with a growing portfolio of cryogenic-rated interconnect solutions. This includes high-density side-loaders, semi-rigid and flexible cable assemblies, connectors, attenuators, and terminations—many of which are adapted from Radiall’s legacy in defense and satellite communications.
The company also supports system designers across multiple quantum architectures, including superconducting qubit platforms used by leading OEMs and academic labs. From startups to large-scale programs backed by agencies like DARPA and DOE, Radiall’s cryogenic solutions are playing a foundational role in the development of quantum infrastructure.
Their expanding line of products, alongside collaboration with key distribution partners and academic institutions, positions Radiall as more than a component manufacturer. They are a trusted design partner, delivering both standard and customized solutions for one of the most thermally and mechanically unforgiving environments in modern engineering.
Learn more about Radiall’s Quantum Technology portfolio.
Radiall Cryogenic SP6T RF Switch: Engineered for Deep Cryostat Integration
Radiall’s R583423141 RAMSES™ SP6T cryogenic RF switches is purpose-built to operate at the coldest stages of a dilution refrigerator, offering unmatched mechanical and electrical performance for quantum computing applications. Utilizing Radiall’s patented RAMSES™ switching technology, this latching switch employs a frictionless magnetic actuation system that eliminates guideposts, minimizing wear and particle generation, which are two common failure modes in cryogenic environments. Designed for longevity, signal integrity, and seamless integration in ultra-low-temperature systems, it delivers precise, repeatable performance where it matters most.
Key Technical Features:
- Configuration: SP6T (Single Pole, 6 Throw) coaxial switch
- Switching Technology: RAMSES™ magnetic actuation; latching type
- RF Performance @ DC–3 GHz:
- Isolation: 80 dB
- Insertion loss: 0.2 dB
- Frequency Range: DC to 18 GHz
- Actuation Specs:
- Voltage: 28 VDC nominal (24–30 V)
- Current: 62.5 mA at 25°C
- Switching time: <15 ms
- Connector Interface: SMA female per MIL-C-39012
- Control Interface: 15-pin D-Sub male connector; bipolar command
- Mechanical Durability: Rated for 5 million cycles per position
- Weight: <180 g
- Construction: Splashproof housing
- Temperature Range: Operational and storage: –273°C to +85°C
Want to learn more about RF cryogenic components? Read more in our article, “Developing Future-Ready RF Quantum Solutions for Cryogenic Environments“.
