Quarterwave’s TWT amplifiers (TWTA) were developed to meet the demanding requirements for measuring radar cross-section and simulating target signatures, essential to the development of advanced radar and stealth technology. They have become the industry standard for reliable, stable and low noise TWTAs for determining radar parameters and generating signals for EW and training.

The model CCU50CW, part of the Compact Commercial Series, provides a minimum of 100 W CW peak power from 6 to 18 GHz, with no more than 0.1 dB power ripple. The spurious output is −55 dBc or better up to 250 Hz from the carrier and −60 dBc outside 250 Hz. The amplifier’s gain range for achieving the rated output power is 39 to 63 dB, i.e., the input level can be as low as −13 dBm. For pulsed applications, the amplifier supports pulse widths down to 0.1 µs with the standard pulse repetition frequency (PRF) range up to 500 kHz, which can be optionally extended to 3 MHz. The high PRF and pulse fidelity of the CCU50CW differentiates it from competing power amplifiers, both TWT and solid-state.

An internal microprocessor monitors TWT operation and controls the power supply and modulator and protects from fault conditions. The microprocessor monitors TWTA voltages, currents and VSWR and handles faults caused by excessive temperature, pulse width, PRF and the access lid interlock. An RS-232 interface (Ethernet is an option) enables remote monitoring and control via PC, with Windows-compatible software provided. The TWTA can also be supplied with a touch screen interface.

The amplifier is cooled by forced air with an internal fan and can be bench or, optionally, rack mounted. The operating temperature range is 1°C to +50°C, derated to 10°C with increasing altitude, up to 10,000 ft.