Radio and microwaves are around us in everyday life, such as in the microwave oven, around cell phones and satellite communication. Microwaves are part of the electromagnetic spectrum between radio frequency and infrared light. In the free state, radio and microwaves propagate in all directions. A waveguide captures the microwave energy and transmits it in a direction with minimal losses.

A waveguide is designed as a hollow metal tube and transmits microwave energy like the coaxial cable does for radio frequencies. In the same way that there are a variety of coaxial connected components for processing signals, there are corresponding components with waveguide connections. It is possible to use coaxial cable or waveguide over a wide frequency spectrum from RF up to about 70 GHz. The choice between cable and waveguide is based on transmission distance and frequency band. Waveguides tend to be very large at low frequencies because of the wavelength of the signal but are often used when high effects are to be handled. For some applications, it is advisable to use flexible waveguides that are flexible to a certain radius and allow for flexible installation. The various systems can also be connected through a WG / Coax adapter which is made up of a waveguide connection with a suitable type of coaxial contact at the other end.