Solid state power amplifiers, or SSPAs, utilize a solid state component (transistor) to magnify the power of weak signals. This boosts the signal’s strength when it is overcome by noise or interference and provides a mock signal for predictions as to how the radio frequency (RF) emissions will affect a device in the real world. SSPAs are the most common amplifiers for testing applications requiring a narrow bandwidth and less voltage to power, used in
radiated immunity EMC testing.
ATEC is the top supplier of solid state power amplifier rentals, and our industry-leading rental rates equip customers with equipment from manufacturers like
Amplifier Research,
IFI,
Prana, and more.
Key SSPA Specifications
- Frequency of operation
- Bandwidth
- Power output
- Gain
- Cost / Rental rate
How Does a Solid State Power Amplifier Work?
Solid state technology amplifies RF signals with the help of a series of combined field-effect transistors, or FETs. FETs are composed of semiconductor materials. Laterally diffused metal oxide semiconductors (LDMOs) are a common form of FET for a range of AB and pulsed applications including base station, broadcast, and microwave testing. Gallium arsenide (GaAs) and gallium nitride (GaN) are the preferred compounds for high-frequency use due to their electron mobility and high band gaps.
GaAs vs. GaN Power Amplifiers
GaAs amplifiers replaced silicon-based semiconductors like bipolar transistors and metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs) and have grown in popularity for RF/microwave applications. GaAS amplifiers generally operate at a range of 5 – 20V.
Meanwhile, GaN solid state amplifiers were initially designed for low frequency L, S, and C-band communications tests. They have since been developed to operate at higher frequency X, Ku, and Ka-bands. GAN amplifiers typically operate over a range of 24 – 50V. Both GaAs and GAN amplifiers are ideal for microwave tests, including radar satellite and electronic warfare, among other communications test applications.
Radiated Immunity Test Standards