Bidirectional radio frequency amplifier module for telemetry markets

The NuPower Xtender 12C04A model, part number NW-BA-12C04A, provides 15W of RF power across L- and S- band frequencies of 1.0-2.5GHz, suitable for extending the communication range of half-duplex transceivers with constant-envelope waveforms. Adjacent radio frequency bands, such as the popular 900MHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band are also supported at lower peak power levels. In receiver mode, the 12C04A bidirectional amplifier offers a low noise figure of 3.5dB and a low noise amplifier that provides 13dB of gain. The module accepts a +5dBm input level and provides a minimum 35dB of transmit gain, all while operating with 30% or better power efficiency.

This bidirectional amplifier features the option of manual Transmit/Receive (T/R) mode selection or automatic transmit sensing, coupled with a fast T/R mode switch time of < 1.5μs to support a variety of digital data links, including AeroVironment’s DDL, FreeWave Technologies’ radios, and Microhard Systems’ radios. All of this has been designed into a system with a small form factor of 6.9in³ by utilising Gallium Nitride (GaN) power amplifier device technology, the NuPower XtenderTM 12C04A bidirectional amplifier module is useful for broadband RF telemetry and communication systems that require reliability and minimal Size, Weight, and Power consumption (SWaP).

“We are excited to offer this bidirectional amplifier module. This product is targeted at the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) market, filling the gap in the market for small bidirectional amplifiers,” said Jeff Wells, President and CEO of NuWaves Engineering. “The NuWaves’ team takes pride in our ability to support our clients with best-in-class RF solutions, rapidly fulfilling the ever-changing needs of the Warfighter.”