X-Band Solid State Power Amplifier (XSSPA)

General Dynamics’ space-qualified, X-Band Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) operates over the frequency range of 7.8 to 8.8 GHz. The RF amplifier design is based on the latest GaAs power MMIC technology providing high efficiency, high reliability, small size, and low mass.

Included in the unit is a DC-DC power converter and regulator specifically designed for the SSPA utilizing synchronous rectifier technology to maximize power conversion efficiency.  

The SSPA also provides a full complement of analog telemetry signals, as well as direct access to selected functions for monitoring during subsystem and spacecraft ground testing. The SSPA operates in compression to maximize efficiency for constant envelope modulation, but can be ordered with Automatic Level Control (ALC) to maintain linear operation for modulation formats such as QPSK having a variable-envelope carrier.