Delay Lines

Definition: A delay line is an electronic component or circuit that introduces a controlled time delay to a signal.

Applications:

• Signal synchronization
• Pulse shaping
• Radar and communication systems
• Audio effects (e.g., echo)
• Digital timing alignment

Types:

• Analog Delay Lines: Use transmission lines, LC networks, or SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) devices.
• Digital Delay Lines: Implemented with shift registers or digital memory (FIFO).
• Programmable Delay Lines: Allow adjustable delays via control inputs (e.g., in FPGAs or ASICs).

Key Parameters:

• Delay Time (ns, μs)
• Bandwidth
• Insertion Loss
• Impedance Matching
• Temperature Stability

Common Use Case: Compensating for propagation delay in high-speed PCB traces.