Triad RF Systems Introduces TA1165: High-Efficiency Solid-State Power Amplifier for LEO CubeSat and SmallSat Missions
June 30, 2025
As CubeSat and SmallSat constellations continue to transform communications, Earth observation, and scientific research, mission designers are demanding compact, high-performance RF components that meet strict size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements. Addressing this need, Triad RF Systems has unveiled the TA1165, a rugged, flight-qualified solid-state power amplifier (SSPA) engineered to deliver reliable high-data-rate links in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Engineered for the Demands of Space
The TA1165 is a Class AB GaN-based amplifier operating across the 5.5 to 8.5 GHz frequency range, supporting both C-band and X-band satellite communications. With 20W saturated output power, it enables extended-range downlinks and robust inter-satellite communications—ideal for modern modulation formats such as DVB-S2.
Having already flown on successful LEO missions, the TA1165 brings proven reliability to new space platforms, backed by Triad RF’s 20+ years of flight heritage.
Key Specifications and Benefits
- Frequency Range: 5.5 – 8.5 GHz (C/X Band)
- Output Power: Up to 20W (saturated)
- Dimensions: 6.0″ × 2.5″ × 1.06″
- Weight: 482 grams
- Input Voltage: 12 – 30 VDC
- Modulation Agnostic: Optimized for linearity and spectral purity in DVB-S2 and other high-order modulations
- Protections: Over/under/reverse voltage, thermal monitoring, open-load survivability
- Flight Heritage: Successfully integrated on operational LEO missions
Applications
- LEO Downlinks – Transmit high-throughput payload data with enhanced signal integrity
- Inter-Satellite Links – Build resilient, scalable communications for satellite swarms and constellations
- DVB-Compliant Systems – Deliver distortion-free amplification for digitally modulated signals
Built for Space, Trusted by Engineers
Whether your goal is transmitting Earth observation data, enabling autonomous satellite networking, or establishing secure downlinks, the TA1165 delivers reliable RF performance without compromising your mission’s power or mass constraints.
Triad RF Systems continues to support New Space missions with SWaP-optimized solutions that are ready for launch. The TA1165 is the next step in enabling agile, high-bandwidth communication from orbit.