The State-of-the-Art Model 176X/Ku TWT Amplifier provides up to 2 Kilowatts at duty cycles up to 6 percent from 1.0 to 18GHz and pulse widths up to 100µseconds. Broad bandwidth, high gain, high efficiency and high linearity of a space TWT are desirable parameters for handling a large number of downlink signals in satellite communication. TWT is required because of limited power available on board satellite.

Model 176X/Ku TWT Amplifier

The Model 176 TWT Amplifier has been designed specifically to operate pulsed traveling wave tubes in the 1 to 2kW peak power range at frequencies up to 18GHz. Particular emphasis has been placed on the generation of the output RF pulse shape without the use of RF switches. Pulse width control is with an external pulse.

Internal power supplies are DC-DC converter designs with fast loop response times so that output level variations are minimal for any PRF including a non-periodic or burst type PRF. The modular power supplies and grid pulse generator have very low ripple, with attendant low phase noise in the TWT Amplifier.

The modular design of the Model 176 provides convenient accessibility to all elements in the TWT Amplifier. Plug-in PC boards are accessible through the front panel. The PC card cover contains a legend for PC card located test points and controls. High voltage modules are encapsulated, plug-in assemblies. There is no exposed high voltage. Most modules are interchangeable between all units regardless of frequency.