Cryogenically cooled C-band p-i-n diode integrated switch matrix for radio astronomy applications.

A low-loss cryogenically cooled (20 K) eight port C-band p-i-n diode switch has been developed for radio astronomy applications. The switching functions are achieved through the use of eight p-i-n diodes in a stripline package. Maximum measured loss and VSWR over the 4.4-5.1-GHz band are 0.75 dB and 1.5:1, respectively. The average measured noise temperature is 9.8 K. The switch provides operational versatility for a dual-channel dual-band (C- and L-bands) radiometer by simultaneously performing as a Dicke switch, a feed/load selector switch, and a band selector switch. The switch performs these functions at a noise temperature unobtainable with commercially available switches.