Qorvo® announced three new MMIC power amplifiers designed specifically for Ku-Band satellite communications (SATCOM) terminals. These products are the latest additions to a family of devices designed to enhance performance and efficiency in satellite uplink systems, supporting the growing demand for high speed data communications in defense and aerospace applications. The output power of the amplifier family ranges from 8 W to 55 W, providing flexibility to choose the optimal power required for each specific requirement.

Product Highlights

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  • QPA1314: This high-power MMIC amplifier operates in the 13.75 to 14.5 GHz range, delivering a saturated output power of 55 W and a linear power of 20 W with 25 dBc third-order intermodulation distortion products. It is packaged in a 15 x 15 mm bolt-down configuration with a copper base for superior thermal performance and reliability. With a large signal gain of 22.5 dB and 30 percent power-added efficiency, it is ideal for both commercial and defense SATCOM and radar applications. 
  • QPA0016: Designed for applications requiring 15 W of output power, this amplifier combines high efficiency with a compact 7.5 x 5 mm SMT package, making it well suited for a variety of satcom terminal designs.
  • QPA0015: This amplifier delivers 8 W of power in a 7 x 4.5 mm SMT package for high-throughput ground and mobile terminals, offering a balance of power, size and efficiency.

Doug Bostrom, general manager of Qorvo's Defense and Aerospace business, said, “Qorvo is excited to introduce our latest offerings, which open up new possibilities in datalinks, radar and satellite communications. With over two decades of experience providing SATCOM solutions, we have worked closely with design engineers who drive SATCOM advancements. Based on their valuable input, our new amplifier family represents the next logical step in advancing these designs.”

Innovative Features and Benefits

  • Wide Frequency Range: All three amplifiers operate primarily in the 13.75 to 14.5 GHz band, with extended frequency coverage from 12.75 to 15.35 GHz to provide coverage ranging from lower Ku-band to CDL band. This wide frequency range ensures versatile and flexible operation, enabling seamless communication across various satellite and terrestrial systems.
  • High Efficiency: These amplifiers provide up to 12 percent higher power-added efficiency, enhancing the overall performance and reducing power consumption in SATCOM systems.
  • Compact Packaging: The variety of package sizes, including both bolt-down and surface-mount options, ensures easy integration into existing and new terminal designs, supporting both traditional and innovative ground terminal applications.
  • Enhanced Thermal Management: The QPA1314’s copper base and the compact designs of the QPA0016 and QPA0015 provide superior thermal performance, ensuring reliability and longevity in demanding environments.
  • Samples of the QPA1314, QPA0016 and QPA0015 are now available from Qorvo and its authorized distributors. Samples and production devices of the previously released QPA0017 are also available.