Narda Microwave-East, an L-3 Communications company, has released a comprehensive line of low-noise amplifier (LNA) modules that cover up to 18 GHz in bands with noise figures as low as 1.8 dB, gain as high as 28 dB (±2 dB or less), and P1dB output power up to 20 dBm. They are aimed at applications ranging from broadband test equipment to various aerospace and defense systems, and meet MIL-STD-883 specs.

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The NEL-0618T620-5MH low-noise broadband amplifier, for example, covers 6 GHz to 18 GHz, with P1dB output power of at least 20 dBm, gain of 28 dB ±2 dB or less, and a noise figure of 4 dB. It operates from a single +12 VDC supply, draws 490 mA or less, and is temperature-compensated. Likewise, NEL-0102N305-1MH low-noise broadband amplifier covers 500 MHz to 2 GHz with a noise figure of 2 dB or less, gain of at least 28 dB ±0.5 dB, and P1dB output power of at least 5 dBm. It operates from a single +12 VDC supply and draws 150 mA or less.

The input and output VSWR of both amplifiers is 2:1 or better, and their standard package is Narda's 5MH low-profile, nickel-plated aluminum housing, which allows connectors to be removed for surface mounting and is hermetically sealed. The amplifiers will accept a maximum RF input power of +17 dBm CW or +27 dBm pulse (1 µs, 1% duty cycle) and operate over a temperature range of –54^oC to +85^oC.