AN-1360
APPLICATION NOTE
One Technology Way • P. O. Box 9106 • Norwood, MA 02062-9106, U.S.A. • Te l: 781.329.4700 • Fax: 781.461.3113 • www.analog.com
How the ADGM1304 and ADGM1004 Increase Test Instrumentation Channel Density
and Test Functionality
by Eric Carty
Rev. 0 | Page 1 of 7
INTRODUCTION
This application note discusses the ADGM1304 and ADGM1004
microelectromechanical system (MEMS) switches and the positive
effects these switches have in test equipment applications, speci-
fically in automatic test equipment (ATE) applications. The size
advantage, wideband radio frequency (RF) performance, precision
dc/0 Hz performance, and mechanical lifetime advantages offered
by the MEMS switches vs. RF relays are important in ATE
applications.
Typical signal chains and block diagrams show where the
MEMS switches can be used and where the switches add value
in comparison to commonly used RF relays, in terms of reduced
board area usage and performance improvements. This application
note also discusses and compares the performance of a typical
relay used in test equipment to the performance of the MEMS
switch.
AN-1360 Application Note
Rev. 0 | Page 2 of 7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ...................................................................................... 1
Revision History ............................................................................... 2
Switching in Test Instrumentation ................................................. 3
Background ................................................................................... 3
MEMS Switch Advantage ................................................................ 4
MEMS Technology ........................................................................4
MEMS Switch Application Examples .........................................5
Summary ............................................................................................7
References ...........................................................................................7
REVISION HISTORY
4/2018—Revision 0: Initial Version