Designed to meet a demand among RF and microwave test engineers, AtlanTecRF has launched a new convenient-to-use and versatile portable test amplifier that covers the full 1 to 18 GHz frequency range. The rugged housing is said to be suited to the busy laboratory environment.

Introducing the product, Geoff Burling, AtlanTecRF CEO said “In many RF and microwave test set-ups there is a requirement to introduce some positive gain and typical modular systems amplifier packages do not always lend themselves to frequent handling on the bench. This neatly designed and very adaptable unit brings a robust solution to a potentially costly component replacement problem.”

Built within a cast aluminum housing, measuring 129 x 84 x 67 mm, the 1-18 GHz amplifier delivers 35 dB gain and +20 dBm P1 output power and comes complete with a manual on-off locking toggle switch for quick application and removal of the amplified signal. A green LED indicates an active unit. The 12 V, 525 mA DC input is applied via a sturdy XLR socket while there is a choice of SMA, Type N or TNC RF connectors in stainless steel with IP rating of IP66/67.

Additional RF specifications include 2.0:1 VSWR, +/-2 dB gain flatness and saturated power output of +21 dBm. The operating temperature range is -10ºCto +60ºC, making it suitable for use not only in ambient laboratory conditions but also within temperature test chambers and on outdoor field trials. This 1-18 GHz unit is only one of many typical applications and other versions are available to 40 GHz and beyond with customer choice of gain, output power and other key parameters.