Alaris Linwave, a leading supplier of high-reliability Block Upconverters (BUCs) for satellite communications (SATCOM) across aerospace and military sectors, has announced a significant expansion of its compact, conduction-cooled Ku-band BUC lineup. The new range now offers output powers from 16W to 50W linear — all housed within an identical mechanical footprint. Covering the extended Ku-band spectrum (13.75 – 14.5 GHz), this scalable architecture allows system integrators to select the appropriate power level without redesigning mounting or thermal management systems.
These enhanced models incorporate cutting-edge high-power GaN MMIC technology, delivering improved efficiency and enabling operation across a wider DC supply voltage range (28V–72V, depending on model). This higher voltage capability significantly reduces I²R losses in power distribution cables — particularly beneficial in airborne installations. All units feature soft-start power-on circuitry to minimize inrush current and simplify integration into sensitive avionics systems.
Alaris Linwave BUCs are fully compliant with the OpenBMIP standard and provide comprehensive software-configurable capabilities, including:
- Precision digital gain control
- Real-time output power telemetry
- Intelligent thermal management with automatic over-temperature shutdown
Interface flexibility is built in, with standard support for RS-422/485 and CAN Bus protocols. Custom interface implementations are available upon request to meet specific platform requirements. Designed for extreme environmental resilience, these BUCs operate reliably across a baseplate temperature range of –55°C to +70°C. All units feature gross leak-sealed construction, ensuring durability in the harsh conditions typical of airborne and tactical deployments.
With this expanded Ku-band portfolio, Alaris Linwave continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering compact, efficient, and mission-ready BUC solutions. Alaris USA is proud to offer these field-proven systems to customers requiring the ultimate in reliability and performance for critical SATCOM applications.
BUCs are essential components in SATCOM systems, converting modulated L-band baseband signals to the appropriate transmission frequency for ground-to-satellite and airborne-to-satellite communications. Alaris Linwave specializes in uplink solutions that meet the demanding requirements of mission-critical operations.
Alaris Linwave has a comprehensive BUC product range that addresses diverse operational needs across multiple frequency bands:
- X-band (7.9 – 8.4 GHz): Engineered for military SATCOM applications
- Ku-band (12.75 – 13.25 GHz and 13.75 – 14.5 GHz): The workhorse of commercial satellite communications
- Ka-band (27.5 – 31.0 GHz): Supporting both defense and commercial requirements
A distinguishing feature of Alaris Linwave BUCs is their integrated power amplifier architecture, which delivers exceptionally compact and lightweight units - a critical advantage for airborne platforms and manpack systems where every gram and cubic centimeter matters.
Click here to learn more about Block Upconverters (BUCs) from Alaris Linwave.
