IEC 60747-16-9:2024

Overview

IEC 60747-16-9:2024 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This standard defines the terminology, essential ratings, characteristics, and measuring methods for microwave integrated circuit phase shifters. These semiconductor devices are critical in systems where precise control of the phase of microwave signals is needed, such as in radar and advanced wireless communications. Adhering to this standard ensures interoperability, quality, and accurate performance measurement of microwave phase shifters across different manufacturers and applications.

Key Topics

• Terminology and Definitions
  IEC 60747-16-9 establishes clear definitions for terms such as reference state, phase shift state, insertion loss, phase shift value, and more. Standardizing these terms enhances clear communication and comparability within the electronics industry.

• Essential Ratings and Characteristics
  The standard requires detailed specification of ratings, including:

  • Absolute maximum ratings
  • Electrical and mechanical limits
  • Operating conditions
  • Specific device categories (e.g., digital vs. analog phase shifters)

• Measuring Methods
  IEC 60747-16-9 details uniform methods for evaluating:

  • Insertion loss and its ripple
  • Phase shift value, range, and accuracy (including root mean square values)
  • Input and output return losses
  • Amplitude flatness
  • Power compression point (P1dB)
  • Intermodulation distortion and intercept points
  • Switching times (turn-on, turn-off)

• Device Identification and Description
  Detailed guidance is provided for device naming, block diagrams, functional block identification, and package specifics. Manufacturers are required to specify whether the device is in chip or packaged form, and provide package material information.

Applications

Microwave phase shifters standardized under IEC 60747-16-9 are essential in a wide variety of microwave integrated circuit applications, including:

• Radar Systems:
  Used to dynamically control beam direction and improve target detection.
• Wireless Communication Systems:
  Enable phase control in base stations, smart antennas, and Wi-Fi networks for signal optimization.
• Phased Array Systems:
  Critical in electronically steered antenna arrays for satellites and defense systems.
• Test and Measurement Equipment:
  Used in laboratory environments to calibrate and validate microwave signal paths.

By following the standard, designers and manufacturers can ensure their products are compatible with global system requirements, reducing integration issues and supporting higher reliability and interoperability.

Related Standards

IEC 60747-16-9:2024 references and is related to several other key IEC standards, including:

• IEC 60747-1: Semiconductor devices - Part 1: General
• IEC 60747-4: Semiconductor devices - Discrete devices - Microwave diodes and transistors
• IEC 61340-5-1: Electrostatics - Protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena – General requirements
• IEC TR 61340-5-2: Electrostatics - User guide

These related standards offer additional guidelines on device definitions, protection, and general requirements. Following both IEC 60747-16-9 and these referenced standards ensures comprehensive compliance and improved product consistency in the semiconductor industry.

In summary, IEC 60747-16-9:2024 plays a key role in the standardization of microwave integrated circuit phase shifters. It delivers essential guidance for device specification, measurement, and interoperability, supporting innovation and reliability in modern microwave and RF applications.