mmTron has introduced two high-linearity amplifiers for high-data-rate satellite downlinks operating in the 37 to 43 GHz frequency range (V-Band).

The growth in data demand, accelerated by artificial intelligence applications, is driving low Earth orbit satellite operators to use wider bandwidths at mmWave frequencies. V-Band has become an important band for satellite-to-Earth downlinks.

mmTron’s TMC315 power amplifier and TMC316 driver amplifier deliver high linearity and efficiency, enabling higher data throughput with reduced satellite power consumption. Both devices are fabricated using a space-qualified GaN process to ensure maximum performance and reliability in space environments.

TMC315 Power Amplifier

The TMC315 provides a typical output power of 39 dBm at 1 dB compression, 40 dBm saturated output, and a 44 dBm output third-order intercept point (OIP3). At a 31 dBm output level, the third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD3) is typically –33 dBc. Power-added efficiency at 1 dB compression is 25 percent, and the three-stage design provides 22 dB small-signal gain.

The drain voltage can be set between 18 and 28 volts to adjust power, linearity, and efficiency. The amplifier includes a temperature-compensated output power detector for closed-loop power control.

TMC316 Driver and Low Noise Amplifier

The TMC316 provides 27 dBm typical output power at 1 dB compression, 28 dBm saturated output, and a 32 dBm OIP3. The amplifier has 17 dB small-signal gain across 32 to 44 GHz and operates from 18 to 28 volts.

With a 5.5 dB noise figure, the TMC316 can also serve as a low noise amplifier with high output capability.

Packaging and Availability

Both amplifiers are available as bare die or mounted on CuMoCu tabs. The TMC315 die measures 3.0 mm by 2.5 mm by 0.1 mm, and the TMC316 die measures 3.0 mm by 1.5 mm by 0.1 mm. When supplied on tabs, the die are eutectically mounted to a high-thermal-conductivity CuMoCu base with a matched coefficient of thermal expansion to ensure reliable thermal performance.

Data sheets for the TMC315 and TMC316 are available at mmtron.com/products.

For evaluation units, contact mmTron at contact@mmtron.com.