Solid State High Power Amplifier for Communications

The goal of this program is to develop solid state power amplifier technologies as a potential replacement for klystron tubes in future communication systems. High voltage gallim nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) based Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) will be designed to provide the amplifier block. High power blocks are combined into a high power module (Brick) capable output power into WR51 waveguide output port using a travelling wave combiner. Four bricks are combined by a waveguide combiner. The concept of Brick which is equipped with a control circuit simplifies the architecture and will be designed with modular concept where the bricks are replaceable in the field for repair and maintenance. The amplifier will have an interface with 202V 3 way prime power, TTL command signal for pulse operation and output port for failure signals. Cooling system will be implemented to remove dissipated power from the module.(Approved for Public Release 15-MDA-8482 (17 November 15))