Pentek Introduces Specialized Beamforming Module for PC Platforms

Pentek is introducing two beamformer PCIe modules to its expansive product line. Each is a high-speed software radio board for processing baseband RF or IF signals and incorporates unique and powerful beamforming functions. Created to accelerate system level design and lower system cost, the boards bring high-performance built-in features and connectivity to PC platforms.

The Pentek Models 7753 and 7853 differ in the number of channels and PCIe lanes; eight channels and x16 wide PCIe interface in the former, four channels and x8 wide PCIe interface in the latter. Each module houses up to four or eight 200 MHz, 16-bit A/Ds, each equipped with its own wideband digital down converter (DDC).

“Because of the many built-in beamforming features, this is the first time we’ve chosen to include a specific application in the product name,” said Rodger Hosking, vice president of Pentek. “Key features include programmable gain and phase for each channel, on-board power meters, multi-channel summation, and gigabit serial connectors for daisy chaining the summation across boards. These boards deliver a powerful, highly-scalable solution targeted for a wide range of beamforming applications in communications and radar.”

“While each of our customer’s requirements is different, much of the technology to solve these requirements is similar,” said Bob Sgandurra, product manager, Pentek. He added,
”These boards represent a unique balance of built-in, high-level functions common to all beamforming systems, while still maintaining an open architecture for our customers to address the specifics of their application. This approach saves development time and still provides the flexibility system engineers need.”