Solid state microwave power models on show at IDEX 2017

At IDEX 2017 TMD will be showcasing its newest Microwave Power Modules (MPMs), in particular the recently launched TWT based Ka band PTX8807 and solid state PTS6900.

IDEX - part of TMD’s expansion strategy
Nigel Hann, Head of Sales, TMD, said: “Although we have attended IDEX several times as visitors, this is the first time we have actually exhibited. IDEX is one of the premier defence exhibitions covering the regions making up the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) political and economic union, and the decision to exhibit is all part of TMD’s strategy to expand into this territory, where our Sales and Business Development Director, Jane McAlister, has many years valuable experience”.

Commenting further, Jane McAlister said: “We have been analysing markets to align TMD’s products and expertise with new customers. We see many opportunities for involvement within the GCC community with companies who are interested in expanding their indigenous capability, rather than outsourcing the complete solution”.

TMD’s new PTX8807 TWT based MPM - features easy system integration
The new PTX8807 is the first of TMD’s new line of TWT based, Ka band compact MPMs. Operating over the technically challenging 30-40GHz range with an output power of up to 200W at 100% maximum duty cycle, the advanced PTX8807 offers simplified integration for high performance EW and radar systems.

It comprises a high power Ka band helix Travelling Wave Tube (TWT) and switched mode power supply. This single ‘drop-in’ microwave amplifier unit obviates the need for high voltage connections and eliminates associated reliability problems and safety hazards. Also, using just one MPM instead of a separate TWT and power supply means spares logistics and maintenance procedures are simplified.

Because the PTX8807 can incorporate a variety of TWT models, customers can specify duty, frequency and peak power requirements. Factory-set optimised performance means that there is no need for user adjustments, and field replacement is made easier. The MPM is designed with high electrical efficiency with minimum cooling required, and will operate reliably over a wide temperature range. Furthermore, because the HV section is fully encapsulated, the PTX8807 operates reliably at high altitude and high humidity and is easily integrated into a variety of airborne platforms. The PTX8807 also features remote operation and status monitoring.

Also showcased...
TMD offers the benefits of both TWT based and solid state MPMs to its customers, and exhibited at IDEX 2017 will be the solid state PTS6900 and TWT based PTXM Series.

PTS6900 - advanced solid state technology
The company’s latest solid state PTS6900 employs advanced GaN MMIC technology to provide high performance operation over the 2-6GHz range, with 150W output power and adjustable 55dB gain. It is optimised for EW/ECM systems and has a high predicated MTBF for an airborne uninhabited fighter environment.

PTXM series - suitable for UAVs
Featuring low volume and low weight, the TWT based PTXM Series are useful for UAVs. Operating over the 4.5-18GHz range with output powers up to 140W, the company claims that these compact MPMs offer perhaps the highest power density on the market.

In addition, TMD will be exhibiting its fast warm Ku band ring loop TWTs and rapidly developing range of instrumentation TWT and solid state amplifiers.