Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Power Dividers / Combiners

1) Why does your 3-way power divider/combiner have four RF connectors?

Standard power divider terminology says that an X-way power divider can divide your input signal into X copies. So, a 3-way divider has 1 input and 3 outputs for a total of 4 connectors.

2) How much isolation does a resistive power divider have?

Due to their symmetric design, the isolation of a resistive power divider is equal to its insertion loss. The insertion loss between any of the ports is equal. Example: A 2-way resistive power divider/combiner has 6dB of insertion loss from port to port.

3) Should I use a resistive or reactive power divider/combiner?

Reactive power divider/combiners have lower insertion loss and better isolation than resistive power divider/combiners. If your frequency range allows you to use a reactive power divider/combiner, then JFW recommends this option.

4) I need a custom power divider/combiner designed. How much are your typical NREs (non-recurring engineering charge)?

JFW does not charge NREs. Please send you custom requirement to sales@jfwindustries.com.

5) What are the pros and cons of reactive power divider/combiners versus resistive power divider/combiners?

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Resistive Pros

• High isolation
• Low insertion loss
• Wide frequency band (and works at DC)
• High power capabilities

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Resistive Cons

• Narrow frequency band
• Lower power
• High insertion loss
• Low isolation

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