There are various methods of discussing the electromagnetic frequency spectrum relevant to RF/microwave applications. The most common are ITU radio bands, IEEE designations for radar-frequency bands, the EU/NATO/US ECM frequency designations, and then common waveguide frequency bands. Many frequency band designations are either based on a mathematical order, or by the technology of the time. In the case of waveguide frequency bands, the bands are designated by the upper and lower frequency limits of the primary modes for common sizes of rectangular waveguide, such as waveguide sections.
What is c-band frequency?
The c-band waveguide frequency range, also designated by the waveguide standard WR-137, operates from 5.85 GHz to 8.20 GHz. C-band waveguide components are often used for long-distance radio telecommunications and high-energy physics research. The c-band frequencies are also used for satellite communications (Satcom) and weather radar stations.
What is x-band frequency?
The x-band waveguide frequency range, also designated by the waveguide standard WR-90, operates from 8.2 GHz to 12.4 GHz. The x-band is a very commonly used band in military and defense applications for radar and sensing. Moreover, the x-band frequencies are also used for space communication, medical linear accelerator technology, terrestrial broadband, and Satcom. Hence, there are a wealth of components available for this frequency range, including x-band waveguide-to-coaxial adapters.
What is ku-band frequency?
The ku-band, or Kurz-under, is a waveguide frequency range that operates from 12.4 GHz to 18.0 GHz and is also designated as WR-62. This frequency band is most often used for satellite communications, but is also used in some forms of radar, including marine radar.
What is k-band frequency?
The k-band is another very commonly used waveguide frequency band that operates from either 15.0 GHz to 22.0 GHz or 18.0 GHz to 26.5 GHz. The common designations for this band are WR-51 (15.0 GHz to 22.0 GHz) and WR-42 (18.0 GHz to 26.5 GHz), and the “k” in k-band is generally ascribed to meaning “kurz” or “kurtz”. The k-band is used for radar, Satcom, automotive radar, astronomical observation, and more recently, 5G cellular communications. Example waveguide components in this category include k-band waveguide-to-coaxial adapters.
What is ka-band frequency?
The ka-band is often denoted as meaning “kurtz above”, as it is the frequency range above “kurtz”. This band operates from 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz and is denoted as WR-28. The ka-band supports satellite communications and modern 5G and likely future cellular communications. Ka-band waveguide-to-coaxial adapters are example components that operate in this frequency band.