Unlocking Wideband Phasing in Amateur Radio with Modern Ferrite
In amateur radio, phasing networks and hybrids are essential. They combine or split signals, steer patterns, and enable techniques like circular polarization or directional nulling. Traditionally, these used coax delay lines or narrowband transformers. Today, modern ferrite materials — especially nanocrystalline and amorphous cores — allow wideband, compact, and stable phasing solutions.
Why Ferrite Materials Matter
The core defines inductance, bandwidth, and loss. Older mixes (#43, #73) work but have limits:
- Narrow usable bandwidth
- Require many turns
- Performance drifts with temperature or loading
Nanocrystalline ferrite changes the game: high μ, low loss, wide bandwidth (1–10 MHz, covering 160–40 m) with fewer turns and better stability.
⚠️ Note: These cores are RX or light TX only (≈100 W ICAS). At QRO levels they saturate and overheat. Experiments are underway to test higher-power designs, and we’ll publish results when available.
What This Enables
- 90° hybrids covering 160–40 m with minimal phase error
- Broadband 180° combiners for receive arrays
- Switchable LH/RH systems for circular polarization
- Compact baluns stable across temperature and frequency
Even 4-square or 9-circle RX arrays become easier: no need for band-specific coax phasing lines.
Real-World Benefits for Hams
- Fewer components and less tuning
- Stable multiband hybrids and baluns
- Easier experimentation with phasing and steering
- Compact designs that fit small boxes
Example: a hybrid wound with just 12 trifilar turns on a nano-core can yield a stable 90° shift from 1.8 to 10 MHz — unheard of with older cores.
The Bottom Line
Nanocrystalline cores are a major advance for building smarter RX systems and efficient hybrids. They reduce trial-and-error, shrink enclosures, and improve wideband stability.
Planning a phased array or hybrid? Consider moving beyond legacy ferrites. But test thoroughly: check saturation and dissipation limits before trusting them at higher power.
Mini-FAQ
- Why are nanocrystalline cores better? — They offer higher permeability, lower loss, and wider bandwidth than classic ferrites.
- Can they be used for high-power TX? — Not reliably. They saturate and heat quickly above ≈100 W. Best for RX or light TX duty.
- What’s the main advantage for hams? — Fewer turns, compact builds, and hybrids that stay stable across 160–40 m without band switching.
Interested in more technical content? Subscribe to our updates for deep-dive RF articles and lab notes.
Questions or experiences to share? Feel free to contact RF.Guru.