CARLSBAD, Calif., 15 Dec. 2010. Cobham Surveillance in Carlsbad, Calif., is introducing two very efficient power amplifier (VEPA) devices for amplifying RF signals -- the VEPA-2W RF power amplifier for small applications like unmanned systems, and the VEPA 10W for large platforms that require substantial transmission range.
Cobham designed the VEPA amplifiers with an emphasis on size, weight, power, and efficiency (SWaP) to stand up to demanding requirements of digital and analog communications systems.
The VEPA-2W amplifier measures 3.78 cubic inches and weighs 136 grams. It is for relatively small unmanned vehicles where payload capacity is limited. With a 39dB P1dB and 30dB gain, the VEPA-2W provides as much as 2 Watts of linear output power for digital signals and can be pushed to compression to provide 3 Watts for analog signals.
Discrete operating modes provide additional flexibility by allowing the operator to adjust to application requirements by trading off between linearity and power efficiency.
The VEPA-10W amplifier is for platforms requiring greater transmission distance. Gain is adjustable from 26-41dB, to provide as much as 10 Watts of linear power for digital signals, or pushed to compression to provide 20 Watts for analog signals.
The VEPA-2W and VEPA-10W amplifiers are available in military L, S, and L/S bands. Other bands are available on request. For more information contact Cobham Surveillance online at www.cobham.com/gms.
