The CRF-PA-300M1200M-150W is a 300 to 1200 MHz GaN RF amplifier designed for broadband RF amplification, SDR / OFDM signal amplification, RF test and measurement, and system-level integration. The supplied CorelixRF datasheet describes a compact module using third-generation GaN transistors, with 150 W rated CW output power, up to 200 MHz instantaneous bandwidth, SMA-F input, N-F output, and a 200 x 158 x 25 mm mechanical format.
For engineers searching for a SDR RF amplifier, this model is especially relevant because it combines broad UHF coverage, high CW output power, gain adjustment, fast PA enable/disable control, and optional RS485 monitoring. Those are practical integration features for modern test systems, not just catalog specifications.
Why 300 to 1200 MHz matters for broadband RF systems
The 300 to 1200 MHz range covers a large portion of UHF-oriented test work and extends into L-band. Engineers may need this range for broadband transmit-chain evaluation, SDR platforms, OFDM waveform amplification, communication system testing, RF fixtures, and controlled system-level stimulus.
The CRF-PA-300M1200M-150W is specified for 120 W minimum and 150 W typical output power under the listed conditions. Small-signal gain is 43 to 53 dB, and gain flatness is -4 to +4 dB. The datasheet also lists 20 dB gain adjustment range with 0.5 dB step information. These values make the amplifier suitable for systems where the required output level may change by test profile.
Instantaneous bandwidth for SDR and OFDM testing
The datasheet lists up to 200 MHz instantaneous bandwidth. That is important for SDR and OFDM applications because the amplifier may need to handle signals that occupy wide bandwidth at once, not only a narrow swept carrier. Wideband modulation can expose amplifier linearity, thermal, and gain-flatness behavior differently from simple CW testing.
When selecting a broadband RF power amplifier, engineers should confirm waveform type, peak-to-average ratio, duty cycle, required linearity, and whether the quoted power is intended for saturated, CW, or modulated operation. A 150 W CW amplifier may need additional output back-off for some high-PAPR signals.
Core specifications from the datasheet
The frequency range is 300 to 1200 MHz, with 200 MHz instantaneous bandwidth. Output power is listed as 120 W minimum and 150 W typical Psat. Small-signal gain is 43 to 53 dB, gain flatness is -4 to +4 dB, and noise figure is listed at 20 dB maximum. Spurious response is listed at -60 dBc, and harmonics at -10 dBc.
The amplifier operates from +24 V to +32 V, with +28 V nominal supply. Typical operating current is 18 A, and maximum current is listed as 22 A. PA enable/disable time is listed at 10 us. RF input is SMA-F, and RF output is N-F. The control / power connector is a D-Sub 15-pin female, and power input is listed as pull-core capacitance.
The mechanical size is 200 x 158 x 25 mm, weight is 1.4 kg, and cooling is by external heat sink. This makes the amplifier a compact UHF RF power amplifier module, but it also means the final system must provide a real thermal path.
Protection and control features
The CRF-PA-300M1200M-150W includes over-temperature, over-VSWR, over-voltage, and over-current protection. The datasheet describes alarm outputs and shutdown behavior: over-temperature shutdown above 80 C +/-5 C with automatic restart below 70 C +/-5 C; over-VSWR shutdown when the output port is open or short; over-voltage shutdown above 32 V; and over-current shutdown above 24 A. Some alarm states remain locked until a reset pulse is applied.
Optional functions include temperature detection, standing-wave detection, RS485 monitoring/control, gain adjustment, alarm output, reset, forward/reverse power monitoring, and analog temperature reporting. For a custom RF amplifier integration, these signals can be mapped into a controller, interlock board, or system health monitor.
Integration notes for procurement and engineering teams
Before requesting a quotation, define the waveform, instantaneous bandwidth, CW or modulated power target, duty cycle, operating voltage, heat-sink capacity, airflow, connector location, control requirements, alarm handling, and reset strategy. If the amplifier will be used with an SDR, include the modulation type and expected peak-to-average power ratio.
CorelixRF can review final mechanical drawings, test data, and control protocol details where applicable. That review is useful for teams that need a GaN SSPA module to fit into a finished RF subsystem rather than a temporary bench setup.
FAQ
What frequency range does CRF-PA-300M1200M-150W cover?
It covers 300 MHz to 1200 MHz.
What output power does it provide?
The datasheet lists 120 W minimum and 150 W typical output power.
Why is 200 MHz instantaneous bandwidth important?
It helps support wideband SDR and OFDM-type signals where the amplifier must handle a broad occupied bandwidth at one time.
What RF connectors are used?
The RF input is SMA-F, and the RF output is N-F.
What protections are included?
The datasheet lists over-temperature, over-VSWR, over-voltage, and over-current protection, with alarm and reset behavior depending on the optional configuration.