- News
23 February 2018
Advantech launches second-generation GaN-based 1kW X-band SSPA for radar systems
© Semiconductor Today Magazine / Juno PublishiPicture: Disco’s DAL7440 KABRA laser saw.
Advantech Wireless Inc of Montreal, Canada (which manufactures satellite, RF equipment and microwave broadband communications systems) has launched its second-generation gallium nitride (GaN)-based 1kW X-band pulse amplifier, designed for radar systems.
The new 1kW X-band indoor solid-state pulse amplifier is fully integrated and operates over the 8.9–9.6GHz band. The GaN-based systems are built for high reliability and include features such as duty-cycle monitor and pulse width monitor to ensure trouble-free operation. The 1kW APRA X-band solid-state pulse amplifier is designed to replace aging traveling-wave tubes (TWTs) and Klystrons with solid-state technology.
The new pulse amplifier is designed to be used in radar systems as a direct replacement for older-generation Klystrons or TWTs. Key features include small form factor and increased range.
Advantech Wireless says that its second-generation GaN technology reduces power consumption and operating costs due to its high reliability. Because of the system’s linearity, the amplifier also produces a cleaner pulse, resulting in better range and resolution of the radar system.
“The advantage of solid state design over tubes and klystron technology is that this technology is much better suited for mobile radar applications,” says Cristi Damian, VP business development. “These new GaN-based solid-state pulse 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.”
The design of the 1kW X-band indoor SSPA is based on Advantech Wireless’ industry-proven reliable SSPAs and over 25 years of experience with high-reliability systems.
Advantech Wireless is exhibiting at Convergence India 2018 in New Delhi (7-9 March) and in booth 1500 at Satellite 2018 in Washington DC (12-15 March).