What is a SATCOM Amplifier System?
SATCOM amplifier system is an RF power amplifier system that is designed to use in satellite uplink applications. It amplifies a low-power RF signal into a higher-power signal right before it is sent out via an antenna to the satellite. The SATCOM amplifier increases the reach and coverage of signals transmitted by the antenna. Traditionally, these amplifiers were developed using TWT (traveling-wave tube) technology, however, mst of the new SATCOM amplifier systems are based on solid-state technology that typically uses Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) or Gallium Nitrate (GaN) transistors.
SATCOM amplifier systems is available in a wide range of frequency bands. Based on application needs users can select the amplifier system depending upon frequency band. The following list provides some of the frequency bands and their general applications.
- L-band (1-2 GHz) ideal for mobile services like GPS
- S-band (2-4 GHz) ideal for radar (weather, surveillance, etc.) and space-earth communication
- C-band (4-8 GHz) ideal for broadcast telecommunication
- X-band (8-12.5 GHz) ideal for deep space telecommunication
- Ku-band (12.5-18 GHz) ideal for exclusive downlink communication to broadcast satellite television
- K-band (18-26.5 GHz) ideal for open radio and satellite communication
- Ka-band (26.5-40 GHz) ideal for higher bandwidth communication
