High-Performance 50 Ohm SMA Circulators for RF and Microwave Systems
High-performance 50 Ohm SMA circulators covering 1–26.5 GHz | Bracke Manufacturing
Bracke Manufacturing offers a complete line of 50 Ohm SMA circulators engineered for optimal performance in high-frequency RF and microwave systems. Covering a broad range of frequency bands from 1 GHz to 26.5 GHz, our SMA circulators provide low insertion loss, excellent isolation, and dependable power handling for critical signal routing applications. Whether you’re designing for wireless communications, radar, satellite, or test and measurement systems, our precision-engineered SMA circulators help maintain system integrity and protect sensitive components. Each model is equipped with SMA connectors and built to meet stringent electrical performance standards.
Maximize power handling and signal integrity with this high-power SMA circulator designed for 1 to 2 GHz RF systems. It supports up to 75 watts, features a minimum isolation of 18 dB, maximum insertion loss of 0.50 dB, and VSWR of 1.30:1. Ideal for amplifier protection, duplexing, and transmit/receive switching, this 50 Ohm circulator is built for demanding RF and microwave applications in commercial, defense, and communications systems.
This broadband RF circulator operates from 2 to 4 GHz with a power rating of 20 watts. Designed for consistent performance, it offers 18 dB minimum isolation, 0.5 dB insertion loss, and VSWR of 1.25:1. The compact SMA connector design makes it suitable for integration in wireless systems, radar modules, and microwave test setups. Click the link below to access current pricing and download the product drawing.
Engineered for mid-band RF systems, this SMA microwave circulator covers the 4 to 8 GHz frequency range. With 20 dB minimum isolation, low 0.4 dB insertion loss, and VSWR of 1.25:1, it ensures clean signal routing and reduced reflections. Ideal for C-band radar, microwave radios, and RF lab instrumentation. Follow the link below for up-to-date pricing and a downloadable technical drawing.
This wideband SMA circulator supports frequencies from 7 to 12.4 GHz and handles up to 25 watts of RF power. Built for high-performance systems, it features 18 dB minimum isolation, 0.50 dB insertion loss, and a maximum VSWR of 1.30:1. An excellent choice for military communications, satcom, and microwave subsystems requiring low loss and reliable isolation. Access current pricing and the downloadable product drawing via the link below.
Designed for extended frequency coverage, this microwave SMA circulator operates between 8 and 18 GHz with a 5-watt power rating. It offers 16 dB isolation minimum, 0.80 dB insertion loss, and a VSWR of 1.45:1, making it a cost-effective solution for test and measurement equipment, defense electronics, and wideband communication systems. Click the link below to access current pricing and download the product drawing.
This 50 Ohm RF circulator provides exceptional 20 dB minimum isolation across the 11 to 18 GHz band. With low 0.5 dB insertion loss and VSWR of 1.25:1, it supports 5 watts of RF power and is well-suited for sensitive receiver protection, low-noise front ends, and precision signal routing in high-frequency environments. Follow the link below for up-to-date pricing and a downloadable technical drawing.
Covering the 18 to 26.5 GHz frequency range, this Ka-band SMA circulator is built for high-frequency RF applications. It supports 10 watts of power, provides 18 dB minimum isolation, and maintains a VSWR of 1.40:1 with 0.80 dB insertion loss. Ideal for satellite communications, millimeter-wave systems, and advanced RF test benches. Access current pricing and the downloadable product drawing via the link below.
Complete Your RF System with High-Performance Circulators and Components
Bracke Manufacturing is your trusted source for precision-engineered RF circulators, offering a broad range of 50 Ohm SMA circulators for applications across the 1–26.5 GHz spectrum. Our RF product portfolio includes RF isolators, bias tees, rotary joints, and low PIM cable assemblies—everything you need to optimize signal flow and protect sensitive components in demanding environments. Every product is backed by expert support, rapid turnaround, and proven reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions – SMA Circulators
Q: What is a circulator, and how does it work?
A: A circulator is a three-port passive RF/microwave device that routes signals in a single direction—from Port 1 to Port 2, Port 2 to Port 3, and Port 3 back to Port 1. This non-reciprocal behavior helps isolate components in a signal chain while allowing energy to pass efficiently between specific ports. Circulators are commonly used to protect transmitters, separate transmit and receive paths, and manage signal reflection.
Q: How is a circulator different from an isolator?
A: An isolator is essentially a circulator with one port terminated in a matched load. While a circulator allows signal flow between all three ports in one direction, an isolator is designed to allow signal flow from Port 1 to Port 2 while absorbing any reflected energy from Port 2, preventing it from reaching sensitive upstream components. Bracke offers both SMA circulators and isolators to suit different design requirements.
Q: When should I use a circulator instead of an isolator?
A: Use a circulator when you need to route a signal between three components—for example, from a transmitter to an antenna, and from the antenna to a receiver. Use an isolator when you only need two ports and want to prevent reflected power from damaging the source. If your application needs both routing and protection, circulators offer greater flexibility, especially in radar, test setups, and transceiver systems.
Q: What types of applications use SMA circulators?
A: SMA circulators are ideal for high-frequency systems requiring reliable signal routing and protection. Common use cases include radar systems, wireless base stations, satellite communications, test and measurement setups, and RF lab environments. Bracke’s circulators are designed to perform across a wide range of frequency bands from 1 GHz to 26.5 GHz.
Q: What other Bracke products complement SMA circulators?
A: For complete RF system integration, Bracke Manufacturing offers a wide range of components compatible with SMA circulators, including:
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RF Isolators – For protecting sensitive transmitters from reflected power
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Coaxial Cable Assemblies – Precision SMA-terminated cables for low-loss connections
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Attenuators – To manage signal levels and prevent overload
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Bias Tees – For injecting DC power without disrupting RF signals
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RF Adapters – To interface with other connector series such as N-Type or 2.92mm
Q: What are the key performance specs to consider when selecting a circulator?
A: Important specifications include:
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Frequency Range – Ensure the circulator covers your operating band
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Insertion Loss – Lower values indicate minimal signal attenuation
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Isolation – Higher isolation means better signal separation between ports
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VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) – Closer to 1:1 means better impedance matching
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Power Handling – Choose a circulator that can handle your system’s RF power levels
Q: Are Bracke’s SMA circulators available for immediate shipment?
A: Yes. Bracke Manufacturing maintains a large inventory of in-stock SMA circulators and related components, ensuring fast turnaround and minimal lead times. Product drawings, specifications, and pricing are available online for quick access.
When you choose Bracke Manufacturing for your circulators, you’re partnering with a trusted leader in RF and microwave innovation. Led by industry veteran Lawrence Pasternack, Bracke is committed to delivering dependable, in-stock solutions with competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Our circulators—along with adapters, attenuators, cable assemblies, terminations, and more—are in stock and ready to ship.
Have questions or need help selecting the right component? Contact our team at (949) 756-1600 or email sales@brackemfg.com.
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