BC Systems introduced the DA Module, an RF power amplifier for defense applications such as manpack and man-portable communications and electronic warfare systems that combines optimum power supply/RF power amplifier integration, a broad frequency range of 25 to 1000 MHz, and RF output power of at least 20 W in an enclosure measuring only 4.5" x 3" x 0.6" and weighing less than 1 lb.

The amplifier is based on the latest Gallium Nitride (GaN) RF power transistors that combine high RF power density with broadband frequency coverage. BC Systems designs and manufactures all of the power supplies for its RF power amplifiers, which allows the amplifier to achieve the highest performance and reliability in the smallest footprint.

The amplifier is designed to be operated in Class AB mode, is unconditionally stable over all combinations of load impedance and phase conditions, and can operate at full RF output power into a VSWR of 2.5:1. It has extremely fast blanking speed of less than 5 μs to achieve excellent noise performance and low standby power consumption, and efficiency is at least 30 percent. The DA Module’s custom DC-to-DC converter allows the amplifier to operate from a 22 to 34 VDC power source, and full protection is provided for over-current and over-voltage conditions. Operating temperature range is -20° to +85°C and non-operating temperature range is -45° to +95°C. The amplifier can be specified with an integrated low-power sampling port for RF output monitoring as well as an internal directional coupler.

The DA Module can be customized to meet various military standards as well as customer-specified mounting, configuration and performance parameters.