Scale to meet the needs of virtually any RF distribution application.

With so many possible configurations, the next question is: How do you scale effectively? Let’s examine two primary approaches.

A. Performance Option: Parallel Distribution 

This method follows the best practice recommended in our DA100 operating manual, as it ensures minimal phase offset across all outputs, which can be critical for synchronous systems.

 

Advantages:

• Maintains high signal integrity with minimal phase offset.

• Allows for scalable, modular growth of synchronized outputs.

• 5 channels available per output amplifier

Trade-off: While this approach provides superior phase integrity, it requires additional amplifiers for signal branching rather than direct output, increasing system cost.

B. Budget Option: Daisy-Chaining

Daisy-chaining one amplifier to the next using Channel 5, which is positioned on the back specifically for this purpose, is the most cost-effective way to expand output channels but comes with trade-offs.

Advantages:

• Requires fewer amplifiers to distribute signals.

• Simpler to implement in some setups.
  

• Best for applications where phase alignment between channels is not critical.

Trade-offs:

• Each additional stage introduces a small phase offset (e.g., CH9 will lag CH4 by up to 5 ns), which accumulates with each additional stage.

• only 4 channels available per output amplifier since each channel five is used to daisy chain to the next amplifier in the sequence. (except for the last amplifier).

Which Expansion Method is Right for You?

Parallel Distribution

Pros: Low phase offset, best signal integrity

Cons: Slightly higher cost

Best for: High-precision, synchronized systems

Daisy-Chaining

Pros: Lower cost, easier implementation

Cons: Tiny additive phase lag, slight noise increase

Best for: General signal distribution

Whether you're integrating distribution into a compact rack-mounted enclosure or distributing a reference across an entire facility, the modularity of the system allows for a tailored solution that meets your exact needs.

With the FRM100 and DA-series amplifiers, you aren’t locked into a rigid setup. You can even design a system that incorporates both of these methods at different stages to balance cost, phase integrity, and the physical constraints of your application.

For instance, say you needed phase alignment on your 5MHz outputs, but for 10MHz, that was less critical. You could use each of these two methods on the respective output where it suited best. 

The Power of Scalable Modularity

With the FRM100 and DA-Series amplifiers, your distribution system can scale effortlessly—from a simple setup to a fully integrated, facility-wide network.

Ready to build an optimized frequency distribution system? Contact us today for expert guidance.