Compact K Band (17.8–20.2 GHz) transmitter for CubeSat and SmallSat missions with integrated modulator and BUC/beacon modes.
K Band Transmitter
Compact K Band (17.8–20.2 GHz) transmitter for CubeSat and SmallSat missions with integrated modulator and BUC/beacon modes.
Description
Paradigma Technologies' K Band Transmitter is a highly integrated, compact RF transmitter for CubeSats and SmallSat platforms targeting K Band FSS and inter-satellite links, LEO high-throughput satellites, GEO/GSO TT&C relay, BIU satellite services, and SATCOM-on-the-move terminals. It offers three operating modes — BUC (block upconverter), modulator, and beacon — and accepts S/L band IF inputs (900–3500 MHz) for high-linearity upconversion to the 17.8–20.2 GHz K Band output. An integrated multi-standard modulator supports ASK, PSK (up to 2 Mbps), OQPSK, MSK, FSK, GFSK, and 4-FSK (up to 350 kbps), and is IEEE 802.15.4 compatible. An integrated 70 MIPS MCU with DSP and 16 MB flash provides on-board processing, OTA updates, and full BIST capability. The unit is housed in an AL7075-T6 chassis with 3 mm shielding and is compatible with standard CubeSat form factors. Space-grade Micro-D connectors and CAN, RS-422, I2C interfaces ensure compatibility with popular CubeSat and SmallSat buses.
Specifications
| RF output frequency | 17.8 – 20.2 GHz |
|---|---|
| RF input frequency (BUC mode) | 900 – 3500 MHz |
| Signal bandwidth | Up to 250 MHz |
| RF output power | Digitally selectable up to 2 W |
| Modulations | ASK, PSK up to 2 Mbps; OQPSK, MSK, FSK, GFSK, 4-FSK up to 350 kbps |
| Mer | > 35 dB |
| Spurious & harmonics | < -60 dBc |
| Power (operating) | 13 W max |
| Power (sleep) | < 100 mW |
| Supply voltage | 4 – 18 V |
| Mass | 475 g |
| Dimensions | 94 × 94 × 25 mm |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Interfaces | CAN, RS-422, I2C; CSP compatible; 4x programmable GPIO |
| Qualification standard | ECSS-E-ST-10-03C, GEVS GSFC-STD-70006 |
