Types of KU Band Power Amplifiers
Amplifiers at the Ku band are made up of numerous bands: 12-18 GHz (with a 12-14 GHz band commonly used for satellite transmission and a 16-18 GHz band for radar), and have different applications depending on their frequency range.
To maximize data throughput, Ku band amplifiers must provide high-quality signal amplification over the entire frequency range with exceptional linearity and low noise. Applications include:
- Satellite communications — where signals from a ground station are sent to a satellite orbiting the earth.
- Radar — for detecting objects in the air or on land and measuring their speed and direction.
- Fixed service links — which are point-to-point microwave links used to connect two locations within the same region.
- Broadcasting — to transmit television and radio signals over wide areas of coverage.
In order to understand the kinds of amplifiers that can be found at the Ku Band, it is useful to know the frequency ranges before the letter designator and the power assigned to them in watts after the letter. The kinds of amplifiers that can be found at the Ku-band include:
- KPA-2.0W: It has a frequency range of 13.75-14.5 GHz and a power of 2.0W.
- KPA-5W: It has a frequency range of 13.75-14.5 GHz and a power of 5W.
- KPA-1KW: It has a frequency range of 12.75-13.25 GHz and a power of 1KW.
- KPB-1W: It has a frequency range of 13.75-14.5 GHz and a power of 1W.
- KPB-10W: It has a frequency range of 13.75-14.5 GHz and a power of 10W.
No matter the specific type of amplifier, the essential functions required from them can be summarized in the following bullet points:
- Excellent linearity: to reduce the signal distortion during transmission.
- Low noise: to minimize the increase in signal-to-noise ratio during amplification.
- Robustness: to ensure reliability under different environmental and operational conditions.
- Versatility: to accommodate various applications and configurations.
- High power output: to overcome system losses and deliver the required signal level.
- Compact size and lightweight: for easy integration and portability.
- Compliance with standards: to ensure compatibility and interoperability with other equipment.
Functions and features of Ku band power amplifier
The Ku band RF power amplifier enhances and strengthens satellite signals to make them usable by satellite receivers. Its functions include;
- Signal gain: Amplifiers increase signals so they can be transmitted over long distances without losing quality. Signals that are too weak to be received by receivers are amplified to the appropriate level.
- Noise figure: An amplifier improves the quality of signals received from space by minimizing the noise added during signal amplification. The noise figure measures how much noise the amplifier adds to the system. Amplifiers with low noise figures are preferable because they preserve the original signal-to-noise ratio.
- Frequency conversion: Some amplifiers change or convert the frequency of signals to match the desired output frequency. They use a technique called mixing, which combines two different signals to produce new ones at different frequencies. This helps communication between devices operating at different frequencies.
- Linearity: An amplifier must maintain the exact ratio of input signal components to their output for signals with multiple frequencies to be combined, transmitted, and correctly demodulated. This characteristic is called linearity.
- Built-in filters: Many amplifiers have filters that remove unwanted signals or interference signals from the frequency they amplify. These filters improve the clarity and quality of output signals.
Features of Ku power amplifiers include:
- Gain controls: They allow adjusting the amount of signal gain to suit system requirements and ensure optimal performance under varying conditions.
- Voltage supply: They require a specific voltage supply to operate, often provided by power sources designed for RF equipment. The voltage requirements depend on the design of the amplifier and the components used.
- Robust construction: These amplifiers are designed to withstand the harsh environments found in space, including extreme temperatures, radiation exposure, and physical vibrations during launch and in orbit.
Applications of ku band power amplifiers
Power amplifiers for the Ku band have many useful applications. Researchers use them in laboratories to test and measure satellite and other types of communications. This is because the amplifiers can simulate real conditions by boosting signals over a wide range of frequencies.
Drivers of cars and other vehicles with mobile communications systems, emergency and public safety agencies, military personnel, and others use Ku-band amplifiers in the transmitter to ensure seamless and reliable communication. They also use the devices to transmit voice and data links. Troops in the field, paramedics on the scene, and many other mobile operations rely on the unbroken link that these amplifiers provide.
Broadcasting companies that are dsdependenton satellite for their transmission use Ku-band power amplifiers to boost their signal. The aim is to reach their audience effectively. Some of these broadcasters may need to transmit from remote locations, so portable amplifiers can come in handy.
Research establishments and institutions studying the earth and its atmosphere rely on Ku-band power amplifiers to boost their signals for radar systems. They use this system for monitoring and gathering data to check the weather, climate, and other environmental situations.
Security agencies and organizations use the radar and surveillance equipment powered by Ku-band amplifiers to protect critical infrastructures and other strategic assets. They also use it for border control and air defense.
Telecom companies rely on amplifiers to ensure that their signals are strong enough to provide coverage in remote and rural areas.
Some defense applications use Ku-band power amplifiers in electronic countermeasures, weapons guidance, and other systems. They serve jamming and deception purposes against enemy radar and surveillance systems.
How to choose Ku band power amplifier
When purchasing a power amplifier for a Ku band, it is important to consider the requirements of the industry project that the amplifier will be used for. Below are some of the main factors to consider when choosing a Ku band amplifier;
- Device specifications: When choosing a power amplifier, it is important to look at the operating frequency range, gain, output power, linearity, and impendence matching. This is because they all measure the performance capability of an amplifier, which is essential for different amplifying needs.
- Type of Power Amplifier: When purchasing a power amplifier for a Ku band, it is useful to consider its type because, ideally, different amplifiers are used for different applications. Also, the GaAs rectifier type is preferred for high frequencies in the Ku band. Other types include class A, class B, class AB, and class C RF power transistors.
- Manufacturer: Researching the manufacturer is important because it helps one know the kinds of amplifiers each manufacturer offers. Different manufacturers offer varying types of amplifiers, functionality, and features. Knowing what each manufacturer specializes in helps in making the right choice.
- Budget: Budget is important when it comes to buying anything. When purchasing amplifiers in the Ku band, it is necessary to know the required budget so a bulk purchase can be done. Bulk purchase, in this case, will reduce costs as it will be simple to buy more items at a reduced price.
- Compliance with Industry Standards: Knowing the industry project requirements will help one know what kind of power amplifier is required, which regulations should be followed, and which certifications are needed in order to comply with Ku band amplifiers and devices. These regulations usually provide guidelines on emission levels and other technical specifications.
- Target Audience: Knowing the target audience helps one decide on the kind of amplifiers to purchase, whether Ku band LNBs or other low-noise models. This will help in purchasing power amplifiers that are tailored to the audience's needs.
- Warranty and After-Sales Support: These two factors are important because they help one in knowing the kind of support and assistance that will be received after the sale has been done in case there is equipment failure. This makes it possible to choose a reliable supplier and manufacturer.
- Features and Functions: When choosing a power amplifier, it is necessary to look at features such as built-in digital signal processing (DSP) and monitoring systems that can provide valuable real-time information. Other functions to consider are integrated protection mechanisms against overdrive, overload, and other common risks, auxiliary RF power, and output metering.
KU band power amplifier FAQ
Q1: What is the key benefit of a linear power amplifier over a non-linear one?
A1: A linear power amplifier provides a clean amplified signal without distortion. Non-linear amplifiers may produce distorted signals.
Q2: What is a satellite Ku band amplifier?
A2: A satellite amplifier takes a weak signal received by the antenna and increases it so that it can be sent to the receiver. It works with frequencies between 950 and 2150 MHz.
Q3: What happens if the power level in the amplifier is too high?
A3: If the power level is too high, it can cause damage to the amplifier stage. Proper precautions should be taken to protect the amplifier from high power levels.
Q4: What is the most commonly used frequency in the Ku band?
A4: The most common frequency in the Ku band is 12 GHz to 14 GHz, which is used for satellite transmission.
Q5: What are some other applications of Ku band amplifiers besides satellite communications?
A5: Ku band amplifiers can be used for Radar systems, television broadcasting, and secure satellite communication for naval ships and offshore oil platforms.
