The 1500T8G18 from AR RF/Microwave Instrumentation is a self-contained, broadband traveling wave tube (TWT) microwave amplifier that operates from 7.5 to 18 GHz. It delivers a CW power of more than 1500 W with a gain of more than 62 dB and has a VSWR of under 2.5:1. The rated power is developed by efficiently power combining the outputs from four 500 W (nominal) microwave amplifiers, each consisting of two TWTs, that are factory matched in gain and phase. It can reproduce AM, FM, or pulse modulation appearing on the input signal. The amplifier has a harmonic distortion of less than -20 dBc and a maximum noise power density of -70 dBm/Hz.
The amplifier’s front panel digital display shows forward and reflected output along with extensive system status information accessed through a series of menus via soft keys. Status indicators include power on, warm-up, standby, operate, faults, excess reflected power warning and remote. Standard features include a built-in IEEE-488 (GPIB) interface, 0dBm input, VSWR protection, gain control, RF output sample ports, auto sleep and monitoring of TWT helix current, cathode voltage, collector voltage, heater current, heater voltage, baseplate temperature and cabinet temperature.
The 1500T8G18 is available in two cabinets, each measuring 56 x 160 x 84 cm with an N-type (female) input connector and WRD –750D2 output waveguide flange. It is suitable for test and measurement, (including EMC RF susceptibility testing), industrial and academic R&D applications. The modular design of the power supply and RF components allow for easy access and repair.
