This is for high-frequency links across land, air and space. One application, for example, is for satellite ground stations, providing a gateway to link to LEO. And other sectors cited by the RF-to-mmWave specialist include defence and telecoms infrastructure.
Each amplifier module contains 32 V-Band GaN MMICs to deliver the maximum power, and an integrated temperature sensor provides users with amplifier temperature data. Also, optional control circuitry enable functions including mute control and alarms.
Cerus
With an operating temperature of –35 to +60C, it is available in single to N-way configurations. And other features of the V-Band 48-52GHz SSPA highlighted by Filtronic include:
- 47.2-52.4GHz GaN SSP
- Full 5.2GHz bandwidth
- Saturated powers up to 50.8dBm
- 19.7dB gain typical
- Excellent linearity (55dBm OIP3 @ Po 41.6dBm)
- Suitable for satellite ground station up-link terminals
- Measures 215 x 215 x 93mm
- Weighs 3,500g
More information can be found on the Filtronic website.
GaN MMICs
Note, the unit was designed and asembled by Filtronic in its headquarters in Sedgefield.
This latest version of Cerus sees the company applying its e-band technology and know-how to other bands. The amplifier provides market leading linear mmW power, Mike Pommeroy – design engineering manager at Filtronic – told Electronics Weekly at the Space Comms event.
The development of such amplifiers reflects a move from Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) to Gallium Nitride (GaN), enabling the higher power density and faster switching. Pommeroy told us it was opening the way for solid state amplifiers to compete in new application areas, such as satcom gateways.
NETPark HQ
Filtronic recently opened, in February, its new state-of-the-art 44,000 sq ft headquarters and manufacturing facility at NETPark, County Durham.
“Our investment in this new facility brings the scale, capability and resilience needed for our next phase of growth,” said the CEO of Filtronic, Nat Edington.
“As our markets shift decisively towards higher frequencies, higher bandwidth and ultra-reliable solid-state architectures, it’s a signal that we’ll continue to pre-empt, support and surpass our customer’s long-term requirements.”
See also: Space-Comms Expo: Open Cosmos layers ConnectedCosmos
