Qorvo K-band PA delivers triple bandwidth
Qorvo is expanding its SATCOM portfolio with the launch of a new GaN-on-SiC K-band power amplifier (PA) designed to improve the performance and integration of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
The new QPA1722 PA is claimed to offer customers three times the instantaneous bandwidth, a 38 percent smaller footprint and 10 percent higher efficiency than competing devices.
“The QPA1722 helps us meet the rising demand for LEO constellation deployment,” said Doug Bostrom, general manager of Qorvo’s defence and aerospace business. “According to Gartner research, the most obvious opportunity for LEO satellites is the ubiquitous provision of broadband services to consumers and businesses, reinforcing the demand for compact, high-efficiency payload solutions in space-based networks.”
Key features of the QPA1722 include a frequency range of 17.7–20.2 GHz, 10W saturated output power (6W linear), 1 GHz instantaneous bandwidth for high data-rate applications, and 36 percent efficiency for improved power handling and thermal management.
The device comes in a compact SMT package and is sampling now, with volume production planned for autumn 2025. Qorvo provides evaluation kits upon request.
