Hawaslsh
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Hello,
I had a question regarding the potential risks of using the continuity or resistance measurement functions in a multimeter on non-reflective RF switch ports. For example, using a SPDT switch from mini-circuits (datasheet), after assembly I want to make sure I didn't short out the signal lines to the adjacent ground pads before attaching the SMA connectors. Perhaps not such a big deal with the 3 GHz connectors, but we also use much higher frequency SPDTs (datasheet). For the mini-circuits part, the datasheet says "RF pins 3, 8 and 13 must be at 0 VDC. The RF pins do not require DC blocking capacitors for proper operation if the 0 VDC requirement is met". Also, un-powered I don't know what state the chip's switches will be in, whether open or terminated in 50 Ohms.
Clearly the continuity or resistance measurement function will apply a test voltage. Will the limited current supplied during the resistance measurement be OK or do folks think any applied DC voltage will damage the switching FETs. Perhaps it's impossible to tell without knowing whats actually inside the chip, but I thought I'd ask before attaching the SMAs and testing the chips.
Thanks in advance,
Sami
I had a question regarding the potential risks of using the continuity or resistance measurement functions in a multimeter on non-reflective RF switch ports. For example, using a SPDT switch from mini-circuits (datasheet), after assembly I want to make sure I didn't short out the signal lines to the adjacent ground pads before attaching the SMA connectors. Perhaps not such a big deal with the 3 GHz connectors, but we also use much higher frequency SPDTs (datasheet). For the mini-circuits part, the datasheet says "RF pins 3, 8 and 13 must be at 0 VDC. The RF pins do not require DC blocking capacitors for proper operation if the 0 VDC requirement is met". Also, un-powered I don't know what state the chip's switches will be in, whether open or terminated in 50 Ohms.
Clearly the continuity or resistance measurement function will apply a test voltage. Will the limited current supplied during the resistance measurement be OK or do folks think any applied DC voltage will damage the switching FETs. Perhaps it's impossible to tell without knowing whats actually inside the chip, but I thought I'd ask before attaching the SMAs and testing the chips.
Thanks in advance,
Sami