As defense and government satcom operators navigate an expanding mix of commercial and protected satellite services, terminal integrators need antenna solutions that deliver frequency and polarization agility from a single, field-deployable platform. Antenna Research Associates’ (ARA’s) C1203-800 is a dual-band feed designed antenna for fixed ground-site satellite terminals operating across the Ku-Band (10.7 to 12.75 GHz) and C-Band (3.45 to 4.2 GHz). Optimized for a 0.8 F/D (focal length/aperture diameter ratio) antenna geometry, the feed is engineered for receive-only operation and supports a maximum input power of 1 W.
The C1203-800 features a switchable polarization architecture that sets it apart from single-mode feed designs. In the Ku-Band, the feed operates in dual linear polarization through WR-75 waveguide ports. C-Band polarization is motorized and switchable between dual linear and dual-circular operation via WR-229 ports, giving operators flexibility when transitioning between satellite service providers or mission profiles without hardware changeout. Motorized skewing accommodates polarization alignment adjustments across varying look angles and the assembly is fully weather-protected for outdoor fixed-site deployment.
The C1203-800 is part of ARA’s broader family of dual-band feeds, spanning Ku/Ka, C/X and L/S configurations. Collectively, these three feed families are designed to address approximately 90% of common communications and electronic warfare frequency requirements, all in swappable form factors that simplify antenna system integration and reduce lifecycle maintenance burden. High-power variants are also available for electronic attack applications.
The product line aligns with current commercial and government satellite service frequency allocations, making it well suited for both military satcom terminals and multi-mission ground infrastructure. For programs requiring multi-band, reconfigurable antenna front-end solutions, ARA’s C1203-800 and its associated feed family provide a field-proven, operationally flexible foundation.
Antenna Research Associates, Inc.
Laurel, Md.
www.ara-inc.com