A 0.7-18 GHz 11W wideband GaN RF amplifier is designed for systems where frequency coverage matters as much as output power. The CorelixRF CRF-PA-700M18000M-11W is a dual-channel solid-state RF power amplifier in a 3U rack-mount form factor, covering Channel 1 from 0.7 GHz to 2 GHz and Channel 2 from 2 GHz to 18 GHz. It is specified for 11 W output power, 41 dB minimum small-signal gain, up to 20 dB gain control, RS485/LAN control, air cooling, and monitoring/protection functions.
This article uses the application-note pattern common on Empower RF Systems’ site: connect the product to a test problem, show the technical snapshot, then discuss control, diagnostics, protection, and rack integration. The result is a practical CorelixRF draft for engineers evaluating EMC, EW, RF interference, and instrumentation setups.
Product Snapshot
The CRF-PA-700M18000M-11W is a wideband GaN SSPA platform for high-power RF systems. Its operating range spans 700 MHz to 18 GHz across two channels. The datasheet lists 11 W output power, 41 dB minimum small-signal gain, gain control up to 20 dB, 50 ohm input impedance, 2:1 maximum input VSWR, -15 dBc harmonics typical, and -60 dBc maximum spurious output.
The rack uses SMA-Female RF input and output connectors, RS485/LAN control, AC 220 V +/-10% at 50/60 Hz, forced-air cooling, and 0°C to +50°C operating temperature. For labs building repeatable test benches, those system-level details are as important as the frequency range.
Application Fit for EMC and EW Testing
EMC, RF interference, and EW system-level testing often need broad coverage across multiple bands. A single narrowband amplifier may not match the test plan, while a wideband rack can reduce equipment changes and simplify control. The CRF-PA-700M18000M-11W is listed for test and measurement instrumentation, communication systems, RF interference/EW system-level testing, and aerospace control systems.
Engineers comparing RF power amplifier platforms should ask whether the test range truly extends across both channels. If the system only uses one narrower band, a focused model may be better. If the test rack needs 700 MHz to 18 GHz coverage, this model gives CorelixRF a specific discussion point.
Dual-Channel Architecture
The datasheet defines Channel 1 as 700 MHz to 2 GHz and Channel 2 as 2 GHz to 18 GHz. That split should be reviewed in the test sequence. Operators need to know how the system changes channels, how switching or cabling is handled, and whether the control interface reports the active channel and amplifier status.
For automated labs, RS485/LAN control is a major integration item. Ask for the control protocol and define whether the test executive needs gain setting, enable/disable control, status polling, fault reporting, or remote monitoring.
Monitoring and Protection
The datasheet lists real-time temperature monitoring, real-time current monitoring, optional forward/reverse power monitoring, optional LAN remote monitoring, alarm/fault protection, over-temperature protection, over-drive protection, over-voltage protection, and VSWR protection/alarm functions.
These features support rack-level operation because the amplifier can be treated as an instrumented subsystem, not only an RF gain block. For EMC and EW testing, where mismatch and test configuration changes are common, VSWR and fault reporting should be part of the operating procedure.
Mechanical and Lab Integration
A 3U rack-mount amplifier is easier to deploy in an instrumentation environment than a loose module, but it still needs power, ventilation, RF cabling, and control integration. Confirm front/rear connector placement, rack depth, airflow clearance, noise constraints, and grounding requirements before finalizing the bench layout.
If the test environment also uses pulsed scenarios, compare this rack with CorelixRF’s pulsed RF amplifier platforms. CW wideband and pulsed high-power requirements should not be blended into one vague RFQ.
RFQ Checklist
Include the test frequency plan, channel usage, required output power at each band, waveform type, maximum input drive, gain-control method, automation interface, rack power constraints, cooling/airflow requirements, mismatch conditions, and required documentation.
FAQ
What frequency range does the CRF-PA-700M18000M-11W cover?
The datasheet lists dual-channel coverage from 700 MHz to 18 GHz: 700 MHz to 2 GHz and 2 GHz to 18 GHz.
Is it a rack-mount amplifier?
Yes. The model is specified as a forced-air 3U rack-mount amplifier.
What control interfaces are listed?
The datasheet lists RS485 / LAN control, with optional LAN remote monitoring and optional forward/reverse power monitoring.
What applications are listed?
The datasheet lists test and measurement instrumentation, communication systems, RF interference/EW system-level testing, and aerospace control systems.