Low-loss waveguide Q-band power combiner with high technological feasibility

The most important device of modern millimeter wavelength range satellite communication stations is a power amplifier. With the development of electronic components, solid state power amplifiers are gaining popularity over traveling-wave-tube amplifier due to their advantages in electrical performance, MTBF and manufacturability [1]. But it’s necessary to pay attention to the manufacturability of such high-power Q-band range amplifiers, as such devices will consist of a lot of microwave components, the quality of connection of which should ensure the transmission of electromagnetic energy with minial losses. One such component is a microwave power divider/combiner. It’s subject to high demands in terms of its manufacturability, serial production capability and electrical characteristics [2,3]. Finding an optimal design that combines all these requirements is currently an urgent task.

Comparison of achievable parameters of existing microwave power combining schemes, as well as the selection and experimental validation of the combining scheme for the construction of a power amplifier operating in the frequency range of 42–45 GHz.

The obtained results can be used by designers in the development of Q-band range power amplifiers, to increase the efficiency of the system.