Advantech Wireless Inc of Montreal, Canada (which manufactures satellite, RF equipment and microwave systems), has launched a SapphireBlu solid-state power amplifier/power block (SSPA/SSPB), based on second-generation gallium nitride (GaN) technology, designed to service new satellites operating in the 12.75-13.25GHz band.
The small-form-factor SSPA is designed to be hub mounted very close to the antenna's flange input, eliminating losses through a waveguide, which will now make it possible for a relatively small SSPA – alone – to transmit the signal. Because of this efficiency, air-conditioned shelters for a klystron or indoor-mounted HPA can be eliminated. Instead of needing multiple antennas at a teleport, operators can reduce their number, simplifying operations at each teleport. Further, the unit operates as 1:1 redundant or 1+1 phase combined, to provide additional power when traffic demands, and the unit has a built-in L-band interface back-upconverter without separate upconverters.
The SSPA units are very power efficient, reducing operational expenses for power consumption, and capital expenses from reducing the need for uninterruptible power sizing, says Advantech Wireless. This enables a more resilient system for operators at no additional cost.
"This new technology is designed to replace multiple older technology klystrons or traveling-wave tubes (TWTs), with more resilient technology, much simpler hardware configuration on site, and a considerable reduction in operating expenses," says Cristi Damian, VP business development.
