Question
What is a use for a Wilkinson divider?
Answer Options
- A) To divide the operating frequency of a transmitter signal so it can be used on a lower frequency band
- B) To feed high-impedance antennas from a low-impedance source
- C) To divide power equally between two 50-ohm loads while maintaining 50-ohm input impedance
- D) To divide the frequency of the input to a counter to increase its frequency range
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The Wilkinson divider is a passive, three-port microwave circuit that functions as a power splitter or combiner. It is widely used in phased arrays and multi-channel feed systems because of its highly specific and desirable properties related to impedance and port isolation.
A common use for a Wilkinson divider is to divide power equally between two 50-ohm loads while maintaining 50-ohm input impedance. In addition to providing a perfect match, the Wilkinson divider also ensures that the two output ports are isolated from each other by a high degree (meaning power reflected from one load does not reach the other load), which is critical for stable performance in multi-element antenna systems.
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