To obtain higher switching rates and good RF performance specialized contacts and relay architectures are used. Operating frequencies greater than 50 MHz are possible with these types of relays.
Intercontact capacitance and contact circuit loss are factors that determine how well a relay is suited to high frequency applications. In addition, the design of the printed circuit board (PCB) also contributes to the selection of RF relays. Beveled etched signal paths and ground-guards are integrated into newer switch matrix PCB designs.