Giga-tronics GT-1051A User manual

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Operation Manual
GT-1051A 10 MHz to 50 GHz
Microwave Power Amplifier

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
All technical data and specifications in this publication are subject to change without prior notice and do not
represent a commitment on the part of Giga-tronics, Incorporated.
© 2011 Giga-tronics Incorporated. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Giga-tronics, Incorporated
4650 Norris Canyon Road
San Ramon, California 94583
Telephone: [phone] (only within the United States)
925.328.4650
Fax: [phone]
On the Internet: www.gigatronics.com
Warranty
Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifiers are
warranted against defective materials and workmanship for
one year from date of shipment. Giga-tronics will at its option
repair or replace products that are proven defective during
the warranty period. This warranty DOES NOT cover damage
resulting from improper use, nor workmanship other than
Giga-tronics service. There is no implied warranty of fitness
for a particular purpose, nor is Giga-tronics liable for any
consequential damages. Specification and price change
privileges are reserved by Giga-tronics.

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Regulatory Compliance Information
This product complies with the essential requirements of the following applicable European
Directives, and carries the CE mark accordingly.
89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC EMC Directive and Low Voltage Directive
EN61010-1 (1993) Electrical Safety
EN61326-1 (1997) EMC –Emissions and Immunity
Manufacturer’s Name: Manufacturer’s Address
Giga-tronics, Incorporated 4650 Norris Canyon Road
San Ramon, California 94583
U.S.A.
Type of Equipment: Model Series Number
Microwave Power Amplifier GT-1051A
Model Numbers:
Not applicable
Declaration of Conformity on file. Contact Giga-tronics at the following;
Giga-tronics, Incorporated
4650 Norris Canyon Road
San Ramon, California 94583
Telephone: [phone] (only within the United States)
925.328.4650
Fax: [phone]

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Record of Changes to This Manual
Use the table below to maintain a permanent record of changes to this document. Replacement pages will be
issued as a TPCI (Technical Publication Change Instruction).
TPCI
Number
TPCI Issue
Date
Date Entered
Comments

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1SAFETY AND MANUAL CONVENTIONS .................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Personal Safety Alert ....................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Equipment Safety Alert.................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Notes................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.4 Electrical Safety Precautions ........................................................................................................................... 2
1.5 Important Operating Instructions ................................................................................................................... 2
CHAPTER 2INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................. 3
2.1 Overview.......................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1.1 Features and Benefits of the GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier ..................................................... 3
2.2 Controls, Indicators, and Connectors .............................................................................................................. 4
2.3 Receiving and Inspection................................................................................................................................. 6
2.4 Prepare the GT-1051A for Use ........................................................................................................................ 7
2.4.1 Cooling...................................................................................................................................................... 7
2.4.2 AC Power Requirements........................................................................................................................... 7
2.5 Shipping, Repair, and Calibration .................................................................................................................... 7
2.5.1 Shipping the GT-1051A............................................................................................................................. 7
2.5.2 Repairs...................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.5.3 Calibration ................................................................................................................................................ 8
CHAPTER 3OPERATION ..................................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Operating Safety and Instructions................................................................................................................... 9
CHAPTER 4PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION ............................................................................................................ 10
4.1 Specifications................................................................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Performance Verification .............................................................................................................................. 15
4.2.1 Equipment and Material ........................................................................................................................ 15
APPENDIX AOPTIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 18

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
List of Figures
Figure 1: GT-1051A Front Panel ................................................................................................................................ 4
Figure 2: GT-1051A Rear Panel.................................................................................................................................. 4
Figure 3: DC Power Input........................................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 4: DET Connector............................................................................................................................................ 5
Figure 5: S21 (typical) .............................................................................................................................................. 13
Figure 6: Group Delay (typical)................................................................................................................................ 13
Figure 7: S11, S22 (typical) ...................................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 8: Saturated Output Power (typical) ............................................................................................................ 14
Figure 9: GT-1051A Performance Verification Setup .............................................................................................. 15
List of Tables
Table 1: GT-1051A Front Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connections .................................................................... 5
Table 2: GT-1051A Rear Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connections ..................................................................... 5
Table 3: Receiving and Inspection of the GT-1051A.................................................................................................. 6
Table 4: Operate the GT-1051A................................................................................................................................. 9
Table 5: Frequency Range ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Table 6: Output Power ............................................................................................................................................ 10
Table 7: Gain Flatness.............................................................................................................................................. 11
Table 8: Input and Output VSWR ............................................................................................................................ 11
Table 9: Additional Specifications ........................................................................................................................... 11
Table 10: General Specifications ............................................................................................................................. 12
Table 11: Supplemental Data .................................................................................................................................. 12
Table 12: GT-1051A Performance Verification Procedure...................................................................................... 16
Table 13: Performance Verification Measurements ............................................................................................... 17
Table 14: GT-1051A Options ................................................................................................................................... 18

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Safety and Manual Conventions
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 1
Chapter 1 Safety and Manual Conventions
This manual contains conventions regarding safety and equipment usage as described below.
1.1 Personal Safety Alert
WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
1.2 Equipment Safety Alert
CAUTION: Indicates a situation which can damage or adversely affect the
GT-1051A or associated equipment.
1.3 Notes
Notes are denoted and used as follows:
NOTE: Highlights or amplifies an essential operating or maintenance procedure, practice, condition or
statement.
Review this manual to become familiar with the instrument safety markings and instructions before
operation.
WARNING
!
CAUTION

Safety and Manual Conventions Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifiers
2 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
1.4 Electrical Safety Precautions
Any servicing instructions are for use by service-trained personnel only. To avoid personal injury, do not
perform any service unless you are qualified to do so.
For continued protection against fire hazard, replace the AC line fuse only with a fuse of the same current
rating and type. Do not use repaired fuses or short circuited fuse holders.
1.5 Important Operating Instructions
The GT-1051A Amplifier does not include an enable/disable feature to activate and deactivate the amplifier.
When connecting or disconnecting the output of the amplifier, ensure that the power switch on the rear of
the amplifier is in the OFF position.
When connecting the amplifier to a transmitting device, observe all safety procedures to ensure that the
amplifier isn’t interfering with other systems in the area. High power microwaves can adversely affect power
sensitive instruments in the area of transmission.
Exercise precautions to avoid exposure to radiated microwave energy at all times.

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Introduction
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 3
Chapter 2 Introduction
2.1 Overview
The Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifiers are high-performance solid-state microwave power
amplifiers. The Giga-tronics GT-1051A provide excellent pulse fidelity, low intermodulation distortion, high
linearity and superior gain flatness without the warm-up time, drift or aging issues of traveling wave tube
amplifiers (TWTA). They feature low noise figure, low harmonics and spurious content, and are highly tolerant
to load mismatch.
GT-1051A:
Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 50 GHz.
2.4 mm (f) input and output connectors.
2.1.1 Features and Benefits of the GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
25 dB nominal gain over the 10 MHz to 50 GHz frequency range.
Ideal for testing in R&D labs, ATE systems, wireless communications applications and defense EW
systems.
Small size allows easily placing the amplifier close to the device under test.

Introduction Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
4 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
2.2 Controls, Indicators, and Connectors
The following pages describe all of the features shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2.
Figure 1: GT-1051A Front Panel
Figure 2: GT-1051A Rear Panel

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Introduction
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 5
The tables below describe the functions of the features shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 on the previous page.
Table 1: GT-1051A Front Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connections
GT-1051A Front Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connections
Name
Function
Power on LED
Extinguished when DC power is not applied
Illuminated green when DC power is applied
OUTPUT
(RF output connector)
2.92 mm (f) to 2.4 mm (m) adapter available
GT-1051A: 2.4 mm (f)
Table 2: GT-1051A Rear Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connections
GT-1051A Rear Panel Controls, Indicators, and Connections
Name
Function
+9V
DC power input from the AC/DC switching adapter. See Figure below.
Figure 3: DC Power Input
Power On/Off switch
Switches the unit on and off.
INPUT
(RF input connector)
2.92 mm (f) to 2.4 mm (m) adapter available (contact factory)
GT-1051A: 2.4 mm (f)
DET
Power output detector output
NOTE: The Detector output provides a differential DC output voltage
proportional to the amplifier output power level and can be used directly
as an indication of the presence of output power, or can be used
for power measurement with the appropriate calibration. The detector
output is frequency dependant, and must be calibrated for each test
frequency and power level. In an ATE environment, calibration of the
detector is not complicated and may be as simple as measuring the
differential output voltage at each test frequency and power level. A
look-up table or curve-fit can then be used to provide a measure of
power delivered.
Figure 4: DET Connector
Fan
Cooling fan for unit

Introduction Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
6 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
2.3 Receiving and Inspection
Follow the procedure in Table 3 for receiving and inspecting the GT-1051A.
Table 3: Receiving and Inspection of the GT-1051A
Receiving and Inspection of the GT-1051A
Step
Action
1.
Before opening the shipping container, inspect it for any signs of damage.
If THERE IS evidence of damage; record the location and extent of the damage and contact the
shipper immediately to report the damage.
If there is NO EVIDENCE of damage; continue to the next step.
2.
Open the shipping container and inspect the contents for evidence of damage. The contents
should include the following:
GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
Operation Manual
AC line cord
AC/DC switching adapter
If any of the contents are damaged or missing, contact Giga-tronics immediately. Refer to the
Contact Information on the inside of the front cover of this manual.
End of procedure

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Introduction
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 7
2.4 Prepare the GT-1051A for Use
2.4.1 Cooling
The GT-1051A has an internal cooling fan. The air intake is located on the rear panel of the instrument. When
using the GT-1051A, ensure there are no obstructions to the flow of air into or out of the instrument.
2.4.2 AC Power Requirements
AC Power Requirements: See Table 10 on page 12
2.5 Shipping, Repair, and Calibration
2.5.1 Shipping the GT-1051A
If it is necessary to ship the GT-1051A, observe the following:
Use the best packaging materials available. If possible, reuse the original shipping container.
If the original shipping container is not available, use a strong carton (350 lbs./sq. in. bursting strength) or a
wooden box.
Wrap the amplifier in heavy paper or plastic before placing it into the shipping container.
Completely fill the areas on all sides of the amplifier with packaging material. Take extra precaution to
protect the front and rear panels.
Seal the package with strong tape or metal bands. Mark the outside of the package clearly, and in bold type,
as follows:
FRAGILE —DELICATE INSTRUMENT

Introduction Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
8 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
2.5.2 Repairs
The Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier is a robust instrument that has been designed and
built for years of trouble-free service. However, if you experience problems with the instrument, do the
following:
1. Contact your local Giga-tronics sales office, or the factory, and be prepared to provide the model, serial
number, and any included options of your amplifier, and a description of the problem. To contact the
factory directly, use the following information:
Contacting Giga-tronics Customer Service
Email
[email protected]
Telephone (within the United States)
800.726.4442
Telephone
925.328.4702
Fax
925.328.4702
2. If it is has been determined that you must ship the GT-1051A to the factory or a service center for
repair, you will be issued a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number. Use the RMA number in all
correspondence regarding the repair.
3. Pack the GT-1051A for shipment as described in the previous section, and enclose all relevant
information regarding the problem.
4. Ship the GT-1051A to the address provided by Giga-tronics Customer Service.
2.5.3 Calibration
The GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier does not require calibration. There are no adjustments. For more
information, contact Giga-tronics.

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Operation
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 9
Chapter 3 Operation
3.1 Operating Safety and Instructions
DO NOT EXCEED AN INPUT LEVEL OF +20 dBm INTO THE GT-1051A. EXCEEDING
THIS LEVEL CAN DAMAGE THE GT-1051A MICROWAVE POWER AMPLIFIER.
WHEN ENERGIZED, THE GT-1051A IS CAPABLE OF SUPPLYING POWER THAT
CAN CAUSE DAMAGE OR INJURY. TAKE THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS TO
ENSURE SAFE SETUP AND OPERATION:
Verify that all cables, connectors, and equipment connected to the
GT-1051A are in good condition.
Do not make connections to equipment while the output of any item of
equipment is energized.
Table 4: Operate the GT-1051A
Operate the GT-1051A
Step
Action
1.
Verify that the POWER switch on the rear of the unit is OFF.
Plug the included external power supply into a source of AC power that meets the
specifications for power in Table 10 on page 12.
Plug the DC cable from the external power supply into the connector +9 V on the rear of the
unit.
Put the POWER switch on the GT-1051A in the ON position.
NOTE: For best results, let the GT-1051A warm up for one minute after switching the AC
power ON.
2.
Verify that the output of the microwave signal source is NOT energized before continuing to
the next step.
3.
Connect the equipment to the GT-1051A according to your application.
NOTE: Verify all mating connectors are 50 Ohm, and that they are in good condition.
4.
Energize the output of the microwave signal source.
5.
Adjust the output of the microwave signal source until the output from the GT-1051A is at the
desired level.
End of Procedure
CAUTION
WARNING
!

Performance Verification Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
10 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Chapter 4 Performance Verification
This chapter is divided into two sections:
Specifications: this section contains all of the operating specifications that define the performance of
the GT-1051A.
Performance Verification: this section contains the test procedure that ensures that the
GT-1051A meets the specifications.
4.1 Specifications
NOTE: Graphs of some of the GT-1051A characteristics are on page 13 and 14.
Table 5: Frequency Range
Frequency Range
Model
Specification
GT-1051A
10 MHz to 50 GHz
GT-1050A
2 GHz to 50 GHz
Table 6: Output Power
Output Power
Parameter
Specification
10 MHz to 100 MHz
+24 dBm (250 mW) typical
100 MHz to 2 GHz
+27 dBm (500 mW) typical
2 to 10 GHz
+30 dBm (1 Watt) typical, +26 dBm (400 mW) minimum
10 to 30 GHz
+28 dBm (600 mW) typical, +25 dBm (300 mW) minimum
30 to 40 GHz
+27 dBm (500 mW) typical, +23 dBm (200 mW) minimum
40 to 50 GHz
+24 dBm (250 mW) typical, +20 dBm (100 mW) minimum
NOTES:
Output power is specified as minimum saturated power into 50 Ohm load with +5 dBm input,
at 23 °C ± 5 °C.
Input power for normal operation should be limited to +20 dBm maximum.

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Performance Verification
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 11
Table 7: Gain Flatness
Gain Flatness
Range
Specifications
10 MHz to 2 GHz
± 3.5 dB typical
2 to 40 GHz
± 5 dB maximum, ± 2.5 dB typical
2 to 50 GHz
± 7 dB maximum, ± 3.5 dB typical
NOTES:
Nominal gain is 25 dB.
Gain flatness is specified as maximum variation with -5 dBm input and 50 Ohm load.
Table 8: Input and Output VSWR
Input and Output VSWR
Connector
Frequency Range
100 MHz to 1 GHz
1 to 2 GHz
2 to 30 GHz
30 to 40 GHz
40 to 50 GHz
Input, 50 ohms
2.3:1 typical
2.0:1 typical
1.5:1 typical
2.0:1 typical
2.3:1 typical
Output, 50 ohms
4.5:1 typical
2.9:1 typical
2.0:1 typical
2.3:1 typical
2.9:1 typical
Table 9: Additional Specifications
Additional Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Stability
Unconditionally Stable
Maximum Load VSWR
3:1
Harmonic Distortion*
< -30 dBc typical
Spurious*
< -60 dBc typical
Noise Figure
< 10 dB typical, < 14 dB maximum
* Harmonics measured at +10 dBm output power. Spurious measured at -5 dBm input power
level

Performance Verification Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
12 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Table 10: General Specifications
General Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Operating Temperature
0 °C to +50 °C
Storage Temperature
-20 °C to +75 °C
Cooling
Forced air
Dimensions
2.75 inches H x 5.0 inches D x 5.5 inches W
(70 mm H x 127 mm D x 140 mm W)
Weight
4.5 lbs (2 kg)
RF Connectors
2.4 mm (f)
External Power Supply
AC line input
100 to 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz, 0.7 A, Single
Phase
DC output
9.0 V, 2.77 A, 25 W maximum
Table 11: Supplemental Data
Supplemental Data
Parameter
Specification
Operating Temperature
0 °C to 55 °C
Maximum input power
(RF)
+20 dBm
DC power dissipation
9 V/1.5 A
Input connector
2.92 mm (f) to 2.4 mm (m) adapter available
2.4 mm (f)
Output connector
2.92 mm (f) to 2.4 mm (m) adapter available
2.4 mm (f)

Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier Performance Verification
Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011 13
Figure 5: S21 (typical)
Figure 6: Group Delay (typical)

Performance Verification Giga-tronics GT-1051A Microwave Power Amplifier
14 Operation Manual, Part Number 35019, Rev. A, March 2011
Figure 7: S11, S22 (typical)
Figure 8: Saturated Output Power (typical)