BC Systems, of Setauket, New York USA, has introduced an RF power amplifier designed for defense applications requiring a compact device covering a broadband frequency of 20 to 305 MHz and having RF output power of at least 100 W in Class AB operation.

The Model RF40015 reportedly combines gallium nitride (GaN) RF power transistors with the company’s design and fabrication techniques. According to the company, the device delivers high RF power density in a module measuring only 5.5 x 4.5 x 1.6 in and weighing less than 2 lb. BC Systems boasts that it has extremely fast blanking speed of less than 5 µs for excellent noise performance and low standby power consumption, as well as efficiency of at least 30%, and the ability to deliver its full RF power output into VSWR of 2.5:1.

The amplifier incorporates a custom DC-to-DC converter that BC Systems says is highly efficient, allowing the amplifier to operate from a 26 to 30 VDC power source. BC Systems says that the unit is fully protected for over-current and over-voltage conditions, and has an operating temperature range of -20o C to +85o C (-45o C to +95o C non-operating). It can be specified with an integrated low-power sampling port for RF output monitoring as well as a directional coupler. BC Systems says it can customize the DA Module to meet various military standards and parameters such as operating frequency range, mounting configurations, and connector type.