24 February 2016

Advantech Wireless launches GaN-based S-band solid-state power amplifier for air traffic control radar

Advantech Wireless Inc of Montreal, Canada (which manufactures satellite, RF equipment and microwave systems) has launched its second-generation gallium nitride (GaN)-based S-band power amplifiers, designed for air traffic control radar systems.

Operating in the 2.7-2.9GHz band, the 10kW APRA S-band solid-state pulse amplifier replaces traveling-wave tubes with solid-state technology. This GaN technology reduces power consumption and operating costs due to its very high reliability. Recent tests have shown that, because of the system's linearity, the amplifier also produces a cleaner pulse, resulting in better range and resolution of the radar system. The entire 10kW system has built-in redundancy for all active modules, which allows higher reliability and availability due to its exceptionally high MTBF (mean time between failures).

"Our GaN design teams have been fielding and providing reliable amplifier systems for both low- and extremely high-power applications for more than 10 years," says VP business development Cristi Damian. "These new GaN-based SSPAs [solid-state power amplifiers] for radars exhibit very high spectral purity, linearity, and low phase noise," he adds. "The radar pulse processing allows for very high pulse fidelity and sharpness, which translates into longer ranges, and higher detection capabilities."

Tags: GaN HEMT

Visit: www.advantechwireless.com