1. What is Waveguide Cutoff Frequency?

The cutoff frequency is the lowest frequency at which a particular mode can propagate through a waveguide. For TE10 mode in rectangular waveguides, it's determined by the width dimension of the waveguide.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the waveguide cutoff frequency formula:

Where:

• \( f_c \) — Cutoff frequency (Hz)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (3 × 10⁸ m/s)
• \( a \) — Width of the waveguide (m)

Explanation: This formula applies specifically to the TE10 mode in rectangular waveguides. The cutoff frequency is inversely proportional to the waveguide width.

3. Importance of Cutoff Frequency

Details: The cutoff frequency determines the operating frequency range of the waveguide. Signals below this frequency cannot propagate in the waveguide for the specified mode.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the waveguide width in meters. The value must be positive and non-zero. The calculator will compute the TE10 mode cutoff frequency.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is TE10 mode?
A: TE10 is the fundamental mode in rectangular waveguides, with the lowest cutoff frequency.

Q2: How does height affect cutoff frequency?
A: For TE10 mode, height doesn't affect cutoff frequency. It's determined solely by the width dimension.

Q3: What about other modes?
A: Higher modes (TE20, TE01, etc.) have different cutoff frequencies determined by both width and height dimensions.

Q4: What's the practical significance?
A: Waveguides are typically operated in the frequency range between the cutoff frequency of the desired mode and the cutoff of the next higher mode.

Q5: Does material affect the cutoff frequency?
A: The formula uses speed of light in vacuum. For dielectric-filled waveguides, the speed would be reduced by the square root of the relative permittivity.