KU-Band Bi-directional Amplifier (BDA): NuPower Xtender KU-20-C01-S01

The NuPower Xtender™ KU-20-C01-S01 is a 3-port, full-duplex KU-Band bi-directional amplifier (BDA). This solid-state system supplies 30 W typical of RF power in the transmit path between 15.15 and 15.35 GHz with a nominal +10 dBm input, while simultaneously providing more than 20 dB of receive gain from 14.40 to 14.83 GHz. It is packaged in a ruggedized enclosure.

KU-Band Bi-directional Amplifier Performance

Based on gallium nitride (GaN) technology, the amplifier has a typical power efficiency of 22.7% and a 7.25 x 4.35 x 2.00 in form factor, which suits it to size, weight, and power-constrained broadband RF telemetry and tactical communication systems. In the receive path, gain is 24.8 dB typical (20 dB minimum) and noise figure is 2.63 dB typical (3 dB maximum).

The KU-20-C01-S01 has been designed to meet MIL-STD-461G electromagnetic compatibility, MIL-STD-810G with Change 1 and DO-160G environmental conditions, and MIL-STD-704F +28 VDC aircraft electrical power characteristics for operation in tactical and laboratory environments.

Key Specifications

• Transmit frequency: 15.15 to 15.35 GHz
• RF output power: 30 W typical, CW
• Nominal input drive level: +10 dBm
• Power gain flatness: ±1.2 dB typical
• Receive frequency: 14.40 to 14.83 GHz
• Receive gain: 24.8 dB typical, 20 dB minimum
• Receive noise figure: 2.63 dB typical, 3 dB maximum
• Operating voltage: 28 VDC typical, 16 to 50 VDC
• Operating current: 5.4 A typical, 7 A maximum
• Quiescent current (no RF): 1.0 A typical
• Receive current: 200 mA typical
• Module efficiency: 22.7% typical
• Output mismatch: 3:1, no damage at all phase angles
• RF connectors: SMA female
• Interface connector: MD801-009-07M9-19PA
• Dimensions: 7.25 x 4.35 x 2.00 in maximum
• Weight: 46.88 oz maximum
• Operating temperature: -40 to +55 °C ambient, -40 to +85 °C baseplate
• Storage temperature: -55 to +85 °C
• Relative humidity: up to 95%, non-condensing
• Altitude: up to 40,000 ft (MIL-STD-810F Method 500.4)
• Cooling: adequate heatsink required
• Export classification: EAR99

Electrical specifications are at 28 VDC and 25 °C with a 50 Ω source and load. See the NuPower Xtender™ KU-20-C01-S01 data sheet for complete specifications.

Features and Benefits

• High-efficiency GaN technology
• Over-voltage protection
• Logic on/off control
• Extended range
• Improved link margin
• Lessened load on the DC power budget due to high-efficiency operation

Applications

• Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)
• RF communication systems
• Software defined radios
• Test labs

NuPower Amplifiers from NuWaves RF Solutions

Extend your operational communication range with NuPower™ amplifiers from NuWaves RF Solutions. For questions about this KU-Band bi-directional amplifier, contact sales@nuwaves.com. NuWaves also offers a line of bi-directional amplifiers and the KU-Band Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA): NuPower KU-20-C01-S01.