PRÂNA RF MT Series: Class-A amplifiers up to 4700 W CW

Higher output power for EMC and RF applications

PRÂNA RF has extensively redeveloped its MT Series for the 80 to 1000 MHz frequency range. The new generation comprises RF power amplifiers with output power levels from 175 to 4700 W CW. The series is intended for professional EMC testing, RF measurement and demanding development environments.

According to PRÂNA RF, the use of new semiconductor technology provides higher output power while maintaining the linearity and operational reliability associated with Class-A amplifiers. Users can therefore select from a wider range of power levels within a consistent amplifier concept.

Technical context: Class-A operation and signal quality

For RF power amplifiers used in EMC and measurement applications, maximum output power is not the only relevant parameter. Amplifier linearity and the spectral purity of the output signal also influence the quality and repeatability of a test setup.

The MT Series uses true Class-A operation. The specified harmonic suppression is significantly greater than 20 dB at 1 dB compression. This characteristic is particularly relevant for applications in which unwanted harmonic signal components need to be kept as low as possible.

Eight power levels from 175 to 4700 W CW

The new MT Series provides eight CW power levels within the 80 to 1000 MHz frequency range:

• 175 W CW
• 310 W CW
• 640 W CW
• 1150 W CW
• 1600 W CW
• 1950 W CW
• 3400 W CW
• 4700 W CW

This range allows the amplifier power to be selected according to the required field strength, the test configuration and the losses occurring within the system. Detailed model-specific information on gain, connectors and electrical supply is not specified in the provided information.

MT640: 640 W CW in 7 rack units

PRÂNA RF identifies the MT640 as a compact example within the series. The amplifier provides 640 W CW from 80 to 1000 MHz and requires only 7 rack units of installation height.

This combination of output power and rack height is particularly relevant for laboratory and test systems where available rack space is limited. The dimensions and installation heights of the other power levels are not specified in the provided information.

Integrated monitoring and safe system integration

The amplifiers include integrated dual directional couplers with RF monitor outputs for forward and reflected power. This makes it possible to monitor power conditions within the test setup and to identify effects caused by impedance mismatches.

• Colour touchscreen: Local operation and indication directly on the amplifier.
• Remote control: Connectivity through LAN, USB, GPIB or RS-232.
• Dual directional couplers: RF monitor outputs for forward and reflected power.
• Hardware interlock: Integration into the safety logic of a laboratory or test system.

The available control interfaces support integration into both manually operated and automated test environments. The supported remote-control commands, software functions and communication protocols are not specified in the provided information.

Modular architecture for high system availability

The MT Series uses a modular architecture. This design is intended to support faster servicing and high overall system availability. According to the manufacturer, the amplifier can continue operating at reduced power if individual components fail.

For test laboratories and development departments, this operating mode may be relevant when a complete shutdown of the test system needs to be avoided. However, the remaining output power available under these conditions is not specified in the provided information.

Typical use cases

• EMC testing: Provision of high RF output power for professional test environments.
• RF measurement: Amplification of RF signals within laboratory and measurement setups.
• Research and development: Use in demanding development and validation tasks.
• Automated test systems: Integration through LAN, USB, GPIB or RS-232.
• Modular laboratory systems: Test setups requiring power monitoring, an interlock and high system availability.

Selection criteria for laboratories and test systems

When selecting a suitable MT amplifier, the required CW output power, the frequency range of the test setup, the available rack space and the intended control and monitoring architecture should be considered. Forward and reflected power monitoring and the integration of the hardware interlock may also be important for system planning.

Model-specific information on gain, RF connectors, mains supply, cooling and the dimensions of the other variants is not included in the provided information and must be evaluated separately for the final configuration.

EMCO supports technical selection

EMCO supports users in selecting the appropriate power level and in evaluating how the amplifier can be integrated into existing or new EMC and RF test systems. The required output power, system losses, monitoring requirements, remote-control architecture and available installation space can be considered as part of the technical selection process.