[SatNews] WORK Microwave will launch an enhanced version of its…
…Frequency Converter Series at IBC2012. Using a sophisticated new synthesizer, the fifth-generation frequency converters reduce phase noise levels dramatically, enabling satellite link operators to maximize the performance and bandwidth allocation of their communications link. Günter Prokoph, chief technical officer, WORK Microwave said, “Given the growing demands of advanced modulation schemes, such as 16APSK and 32APSK, and higher operating frequencies, such as Ka-band, improved phase noise performance is even more critical. In introducing the fifth-generation Frequency Converter Series, WORK Microwave has reduced phase noise levels above and beyond the recommended industry specification. We are particularly proud of our achievement in reducing phase noise within the Ka-band, due to the specific challenges presented by this frequency range.”
WORK Microwave’s fifth-generation series of frequency converters lower phase noise for applications operating within any satellite frequency band to a level exceeding the recommended industry standard by far—according to Intelsat‘s IESS-308/309 phase noise specification. This development offers satellite operators a substantial improvement in phase noise levels compared with other standard frequency converters. Based on a powerful new synthesizer, WORK Microwave Ku-band converters tuned to a frequency range of 12.75GHz to 14.5GHz can now achieve a phase noise level better than -65dBc/Hz at 10Hz and -97dBc/Hz at 10kHz, while Ka-band converters tuned to a frequency range of 27.5GHz to 31GHz can achieve phase noise levels better than -58dBc/Hz at 10Hz and -91dBc/Hz at 10kHz.
The fifth-generation Frequency Converter Series also includes several important new features imperative to its flexibility and usability. Through an enhanced USB port, operators can now access the converter via the back panel to make copies of parameter settings, replicate selected configurations on another device, or save configuration settings for future reference. A new user-friendly, Web-based interface offers an intuitive user experience by allowing easy access to a comprehensive range of features. When coupled with the enhanced USB port, the customizable GUI also simplifies the installation of firmware updates. Further, the completely modular-based Frequency Converter Series is highly scalable and customizable, providing users with a cost-effective solution that can be tailored according to their specific needs, including frequency range, output power, and conversion gain. As is the case with all of WORK Microwave’s previous Frequency Converter Series solutions, the fifth-generation Frequency Converter Series is built with the most advanced technologies available to ensure unmatched performance, high reliability, and an extensive operational lifetime.
