Optically controlled RF switches combat EMI

ACCURATE and reliable control of microwave switches is critical in any envi ronment dominated by electromagnetic interference (EMI), Sites such as comm unication-antenna arrays, microwave repeaters, and military platforms are c onstantly exposed to high-level emissions of EMI. Electrical-control signal s can be compromised under such conditions. However, under optical control, microwave switches can be operated reliably even in the most-hostile EMI e nvironments.