Software package enhances RF amplifier

Designed for various test environments, the software and intuitive operation allows users to accurately set the operating parameters of the amplifier and manage test sequences.

The BBA300 provides stable, robust and precise test signals, across a continuous frequency range from 380 MHz to 6 GHz at up to 300 W output power.

It supports amplitude, frequency, phase, pulse and complex OFDM modulation, making it ideal for laboratory and validation test environments, where precisely reproduced test signals are required.

The new software option provides ready access to the extensive parameter sets offered by the amplifier.

Through the use of user profiles and a simple web interface, operators have access to the functionality they need, while being sure the operations remain safe.

The software option introduces two powerful tools: the ability to shift the operating point between Class A and Class AB; and the ability to choose between maximum RF output power and higher tolerance to mismatch at RF output.

With these tools, users can optimise test signals and react flexibly to a wide variety of requirements.

“Development engineers and certifiers in a broad range of industries, from EMI immunity and RF component testing to medical and scientific particle accelerators, need a reliable and precise reference signal,” said Michael Hempel, Product Manager for Amplifier Systems at Rohde & Schwarz. “We have responded to their needs with the new BBA300-PK1 software option, so they can fine-tune the test signal as they need. And because we use industry standards, control can be operated from any location using the ethernet to manage and measure results.”

The ability to move the working point of an amplifier changes its response.

As a Class A amplifier, the BBA300 provides excellent linearity and harmonic performance. Shifting to Class AB allows pulsed signals to be reproduced accurately at high power, while improving efficiency.

The BBA300-PK1 software option also allows the user to set the amplifier between High Power Mode for high maximum power with a well-matched RF path and VSWR Mode for rated power with high tolerance to load mismatches.

The VSWR Mode is useful in EMC applications, because it maintains rated power up to a VSWR of 6:1 before the amplifier gradually reduces its rated power to 50% for self-protection in the event of an open circuit or short circuit.