Microwave Journal
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AtlanTecRF

AtlanTecRF Launches Q-Band Loop Test Translators

Q-Band Loop Test Translators

May 22, 2017

AtlanTecRF has launched its range of Q-Band Loop Test Translators with Ethernet Control. Addressing the nominal  44 GHz uplink market the company’s three new products provide loop-back frequency conversion of Transmit (Tx) to Receive (Rx), Transmit to L-Band and L-Band to Receive, thereby providing a complete suite of system testing instruments.

AtlanTecRF Loop Test Translators are already in use on all continents in lower frequency bands from L-Band to Ka-Band and the extension into the 44 GHz region of Q-Band with its current and future operating potential heralds the next generation of space sector communications.

Coupled into ground station transmit and receive chains, the ALR series of Q-Band translators simulate the satellite and facilitate set up and alignment of the system without the risk and cost of a live test session. From input to output the nominal conversion loss is 35 dB as standard but there are options to reduce this to 0 dB with the addition of internal gain stages. Input attenuation in a choice of 30 dB and 60 dB ranges is controlled with easy-to-use up/down touch buttons and this is also the case for the synthesized local oscillator (LO) frequency. In addition, this local control can be switched to remote whereby Ethernet and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) permit adjustment of these parameters via the internet.

LO stability is maintained over both time and temperature by either an internal OXCO guaranteeing +/-0.05 ppm over 0+50ºC or by connecting to a system 10 MHz reference, in which case the LTT tracks the system variations.

At the announcement of these new Q-band instruments, Geoff Burling, AtlanTecRF CEO, said “It is always the aim of AtlanTecRF to stay ahead of industry trends in satcom RF testing. We were right there at the opening of the Ka-Band era and we have now made equivalent test functions available for the higher frequencies of Q-Band operation. The availability of these products now means that the designers of tomorrow’s satellite connectivity don’t have to wait to prove the performance of the next generation of equipment. We have the means today.”

 In addition to the easily recognized 19” x 1U rack mount configuration, the Q-Band LTTs will also be available as portable bench instruments and weatherproof outdoor units and there is the choice of AC 80-240 V supply or rechargeable battery power.

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