What Is an RF Amplifier?
An RF amplifier is a two-port electronic circuit that utilizes electric power from a power supply to increase the amplitude of a signal applied to its input terminals. The amp then produces a proportionally larger amplitude signal at the output. The amount of amplification offered by an amplifier is measured by its gain. Amplifier gain is the ratio of output voltage, current, or power to input.
Types Of RF Amplifier
There are many different types of amplifiers for various applications. Generally, RF amps can be categoried as pulse amplifiers, CW amplifiers, TWT amplifiers, solid-state RF amplifiers, and vacuum tube RF amplifiers.
Pulse Amplifier
Pulse amplifiers is a type of RF power amplifier that amplifies RF pulses generated by electrical devices without altering the waveform. These systems strengthen signals to high levels of power that switches between intensely pulsating power and producing zero output at a rapid rate. Pulse amps stay cool and do not continuously produce energy.
Solid-State RF Amplifier
Solid-state amplifiers have become increasingly popular for feeding accelerating cavities with radio frequency power in the 100 kW range. Solid-state amplifiers are commonly used for testing applications that require a narrow bandwidth and less voltage to power, including EMC testing in communications, radar, aerospace, defense, medical technology, and other fields.
CW Amplifier (Continuous Wave Amplifier)
A CW amplifier is a type of RF power amplifier used in EMC testing that amplifies RF signals while maintaining a continuous waveform. CW amplifiers are essential for testing devices in the antenna, telecom, automotive, and aerospace industries.
TWT Amplifier (Traveling Wave Tube Amplifier)
TWT amplifier is a high-power and high-frequency system built with traveling wave tubes. A traveling wave tube is a type of vacuum tube for amplifying high-frequency