Abstract: A coupling structure for a ferrite-based resonator comprises a short, stiff mounting rod and ferrite sphere are mechanically coupled to a substrate that provides support for a stiff coupling loop. The structure reduces differential movement between the sphere and the coupling loop, thereby reducing vibration-induced degradation of resonator performance. This resonator structure may be used in tunable, wideband oscillator, filter, or amplifier circuits, for example. In one embodiment, the mounting rod is a poor thermal conductor, thereby thermally isolating the sphere, which becomes nearly isothermal.

Abstract: A coupling structure for a ferrite-based resonator comprises a short, stiff mounting rod and ferrite sphere are mechanically coupled to a substrate that provides support for a stiff coupling loop. The structure reduces differential movement between the sphere and the coupling loop, thereby reducing vibration-induced degradation of resonator performance. This resonator structure may be used in tunable, wideband oscillator, filter, or amplifier circuits, for example. In one embodiment, the mounting rod is a poor thermal conductor, thereby thermally isolating the sphere, which becomes nearly isothermal.

Abstract: Apparatus for polishing spherical objects includes first and second plates having smooth facing surfaces. A first plate comprises ceramic material which is rotatably supported, and the first plate includes a transparent plate. Spherical objects to be polished are placed between the two plates along with an abrasive slurry, and magnets are positioned on a top surface of the first plate to magnetically limit the path of travel of the spherical objects as the second plate is rotated. The first plate includes at least one radially concave groove in which this spherical objects are mixed during a polishing operation.