Compact RI 3041 4×4 Butler Matrix from Ranatec brings frequency testing to next level with leading bandwidth performance

2024-03-07

Gothenburg, Sweden, March 7, 2024 — Ranatec, a part of Qamcom Group and progressive creator of test and measurement equipment for RF and microwave applications, announced today that it has extended its product portfolio to include the Ranatec RI 3041 4×4 Butler matrix. Targeted for testing at frequencies from 2.4 to 8.0 GHz, the next generation compact Butler matrix 4×4 delivers widest operational bandwidth available on the global market and is the latest Ranatec innovation empowering leading electronics manufacturers to perform the enhanced testing that places their most advanced products in pole position for market.

Addressing the needs of an evolving electronics market, the next generation RI 3041 4×4 Butler matrix provides multiple enhancement compared to its predecessors:

  • Smaller in size: 70x86x19 vs 150x100x18
  • Lighter: 0.25 kg vs 0.6 kg
  • Increased operating bandwidth:
  • Increased accuracy: ±10° vs. ±15°
  • Increased amplitude accuracy: ±1.5 dB vs. ±3 dB
  • Lower insertion loss: 8 dB vs. 13 dB

“Ranatec is creating future-oriented value propositions for its customers through new advancements such as the RI 3041 4×4 Butler matrix”, says Charlotte Ornstein at Ranatec.

“A valuable addition to our rich portfolio of wireless test automation products, the new Butler matrix is designed to perform over the complete Bluetooth and Wi-Fi bands of operation and is highly suitable for antenna array beamforming and interference testing for multiple systems within the frequency range and for multichannel multipath emulation and testing of wireless products.”

About the RI 3041 4×4 Butler Matrix

The RI 3041 Butler matrix is a beamforming network that controls the directions of a beam, or beams, of a radio transmission. The beam direction is controlled by switching power to the desired beam port. In transmit mode it delivers the full power of the transmitter to the beam, and in receive mode it collects the signal from each of the beam directions with the full gain of the antenna array.

Applications

  • For multichannel MIMO testing for up to 4+4 antenna ports, over a large frequency range.
  • For antenna array beamforming and interface testing for multiple systems in the frequency range.
  • For multichannel multipath emulation.

Features and performance

  • Covers all present and future Bluetooth and WIFI bands from 2.4 to 8.0 GHz
  • 4 inputs with SMA (f) connectors and 4 outputs with SMA (f) connectors
  • Good output phase accuracy
  • Compact Butler matrix design

Mechanical Outline

Interfaces
4 inputs with SMA (f) connectors and 4 outputs with SMA (f) connectors.

Specifications

Parameter Typical
Performance		 Unit Comments
Frequency Range 2.4 to 8 GHz Covers present and future BLE and WiFi bandsw
Return Loss (50 Ω reference) 13 dB VSWR = 1.6 (Max RL 10dB, VSWR 1.9)
Output phase deviation from nominal ±10 °
Output amplitude deviation from nominal <±3 dB Nominal is equal amplitude in the 8 output ports
Insertion Loss <8 dB 6 dB of total 8 dB is splitting loss (1:4)
Isolation >13 dB Measured as isolation between input ports (Max 10 dB)
Maximum power 5 W Total input power (average)
Dimensions (LxWxH) 70 x 86 x 19 mm Including connectors
Mass 0.25 kg
Connector type SMA-F

FAQ

A Butler matrix is a passive microwave network that distributes signals among multiple antennas with controlled phase shifts. It is commonly used in beamforming networks to enable directional signal transmission and reception. The matrix consists of hybrid couplers and phase shifters, providing equal power division and specific phase differences between output ports.

The Butler matrix features includes:

  • Beamforming capability – Enables multiple fixed beams for improved signal directionality.
  • Equal power distribution – Ensures balanced signal strength across output ports.
  • Low insertion loss – Minimizes signal degradation for efficient transmission.
  • Scalability – Supports various antenna configurations for different applications.
  • Passive design – Requires no active components, ensuring reliability and durability.

The Butler matrix is widely used in various RF and microwave systems due to its ability to control signal directionality and enhance communication efficiency. Its applications include, but is not limited to:

  • Phased array antennas for radar and communication systems.
  • Beamforming networks in 5G and satellite communication.
  • Directional signal transmission in wireless MIMO systems.
  • Antenna testing and measurement setups.
  • Military and defense applications requiring adaptive beam steering.

About Ranatec AB

A part of the Qamcom Group, Ranatec is progressive creator within signal conditioning products to test, measure, filter, or block signals. Together with our global and leading clients and partners, we aim to make them and their products better through inventive solutions for design verification, product certification, production testing and expert trouble shooting. We provide the newest advancements in test design and satisfy the highest demands for performance. Off-the-shelf or full customization, Ranatec offers innovative solutions for Wireless Test Automation, RF/EMC Shielding, and Radar Testing. ISO9001:2015 certified, Ranatec is compliant with the most stringent ISO requirements.

In short, we invent to improve. Visit us at ranatec.com and follow our latest news on LinkedIn and X.

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