SSPA Takes Aim At Ku-Band TWTAs

Jan. 19, 2011

With tube-like power, a solid-state power amplifier (SSPA) developed by Integral Systems delivers 100 W output power at Ku-band. Ideal for satellite-communications (satcom) uplinks, the compact amplifier measures just 10.7 x 5.3 x 3.65 in. Offered by the firm's SATCOM Solutions division, it weighs only 10 lbs. by itself and 15 lbs. with an optional cooling system. The amplifier delivers as much as 140 W saturated output power with 500 W total power consumption, about 28 percent efficiency at Ku-band (around 14 GHz). The amplifier features built-in monitoring and control circuitry.

"Our customers have been demanding a smaller, lighter, and more powerful amplifier that can solve their most challenging power issues and be used in a disparate set of environments," notes Steve Gizinski, General Manager of Integral Systems' SATCOM Solutions division. "Today, we are making available the most advanced, ultra-compact, lightweight, and powerful SSPA that is ideal for any customer looking to cut capital and ongoing operating costs and increase efficiencies." The SSPA is available with optional integrated power supply for voltages from 18 to 55 V.

About the Author

Jack Browne

Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.