Phase-Matched RF-Backplane (PM-RF-Backplane)
Board Description
The Phase-Matched Radio Frequency Backplane (PM-RF-Backplane) is an extension for MicroTCA.4 chassis, designed for customers needing various RF signals supplied to their rear transition module (RTM). It ensures full compatibility with existing MicroTCA.4 crates. The PM-RF-Backplane is a passive RTM backplane with phase-matched interconnection for precise RF and clock signals. It provides the connection for a high-performance and managed analogue RTM power supply. The high-frequency signal distribution network operates in the range from DC to 6 GHz.
A Backplane Management Module (MCH-RTM-BM) enables system management functions to support up to 12 RTMs, up to 3 eRTMs, and 2 RTM-PMs (RTM Power Modules). Alternatively, the unit can operate in cost-effective configurations without an RTM Power Module installed. In such cases, only a limited amount of power is required for the rear side.
The RF-Backplane can be installed in a 9U chassis and includes a dedicated copper shielding board that protects against electromagnetic interference. The design was optimised to ensure signal integrity and low common-mode drift due to temperature or humidity changes. Phase-matching now ensures that differential-mode drifts become negligible
Features
- Distributes phase-matched signals in the frequency range of DC to 6 GHz (30 single-ended channels, star topology)
- Provides phase-matched Clocks (CLK) to RTMs
- Has one additional RTM-slot with RF signals
- Can be installed in commercially available 12-Slot 9U chassis from nVent/Schroff
- Interfaces for up to 12 RTMs via Zone 3 connectors and for 3 dedicated eRTMs
- System Management functionality support via MCH Backplane manager (MCH-RTM-BM)
- Interfaces for 2 redundant RTM Power Modules
- Phase-matched data communication links to eRTM boards (3 LVDS lanes per slot)
- Provides low-noise separated analog bipolar power distribution (+VV, -VV) for RTMs and unipolar power distribution (PP) for eRTMs
- Delivers additional power from dedicated rear power supplies to RTM boards
- RF-Backplane ground can be connected to/ isolated from chassis ground (with screws)
Files
Licensing
This board is currently not licensed. If you’re interested in learning more or purchasing the board, feel free to reach out to us for further details!