Narda, an L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL) company, has introduced the Model 15172 transceiver that provides a compact, cost-effective solution for interfacing systems that employ a 70-MHz intermediate frequency (IF) to single-band, tri-band, or quad-band block converters in military satellite communications systems. Unlike transceivers designed for commercial applications that cover only a portion of the L-band frequencies used by military satellite communications systems, the Model 15172 upconverts or downconverts signals between the 70-MHz IF and the entire band from 950 MHz to 2 GHz. In addition, it provides the ability to set the output frequency at any point within the band with step sizes as small as 20 kHz and as broad as 1 MHz, rather than providing one or two step sizes typical of other transceivers. This makes the Model 15172 a much better match for the latest modems that can tune in very fine increments across the band. The Model 15172 combines these features with exceptional signal purity, including phase noise performance that exceeds the requirements of MIL-STD-188-165A, the military standard that establishes mandatory requirements for frequency-division multiple access (FDMA) modems employed in satellite communications Earth terminals. The Model 15172 is also compact measuring 6 x 8 x 1.5 in. and weighs only 4 lb., which allows it to be easily integrated into rack drawers and other space-critical enclosures. RF output power at 1-dB gain compression of the upconverter section is typically at least +15 dB with variation of no more than +/-0.15 dB over a 24-hr. period. Noise figure of both the upconverter and downconverter is 16 dB or less and return loss is at least 15 dB. Transfer gain of the upconverter is 25 dB and 40 dB for the downconveter, both controllable in 0.25-dB steps. They will accept an input signal from 52 to 88 MHz at typical of levels of -29 to 0 dBm. Operating temperature range is -20o C to +70o C. The Model 15172 is available for immediate delivery. Please direct readers to Narda Microwave-East: www.nardamicrowave.com/east, e-mail: nardaeast@L-3com.com, or (631) 231-1700 for more information.