RF switch

An RF switch or microwave switch is a device to route high frequency signals through transmission paths. RF (radio frequency) and microwave switches are used extensively in microwave test systems for signal routing between instruments and devices under test (DUT). Incorporating a switch into a switch matrix system enables you to route signals from multiple instruments to single or multiple DUTs. This allows multiple tests to be performed with the same setup, eliminating the need for frequent connects and disconnects. The entire testing process can be automated, increasing the throughput in high-volume production environments.

Like other electrical switches, RF and microwave switches provide different configurations for many different applications. Below is a list of typical switch configurations and usage:

• Single pole, double throw (SPDT or 1:2) switches route signals from one input to two output paths.

• Multiport switches or single pole, multiple throw (SPnT) switches allow a single input to multiple (three or more) output paths.
• Transfer switches or double pole, double throw (DPDT) switches can serve various purposes.
• Bypass switches insert or remove a test component from a signal path.

RF CMOS switches are crucial to modern wireless telecommunication, including wireless networks and mobile communication devices. Infineon's bulk CMOS RF switches sell over 1 billion units annually, reaching a cumulative 5 billion units, as of 2018^[update].^[1]