A 5150-5350 MHz 200W GaN RF power amplifier gives engineers a focused high-power option for narrowband RF systems near the lower C-band region. The CorelixRF CRF-PA-5150M5350M-200W is specified for 5150 MHz to 5350 MHz operation with 200 W rated CW output power, 51 dB typical gain, optional RS485 monitoring/control, optional VCO source configuration, gain adjustment, external heat-sink cooling, and multiple protection functions.
This draft uses a product-update and application-note structure inspired by Empower RF Systems’ public content style: lead with the model and application, present a concise specification snapshot, then explain why the details matter for integration, testing, and RFQ preparation.
Product Snapshot
The CRF-PA-5150M5350M-200W is a solid-state narrowband RF amplifier using third-generation GaN transistor technology. The datasheet lists 5150-5350 MHz frequency coverage, 160 W minimum saturated output power, 200 W rated output power, and 49 dB minimum, 51 dB typical, 53 dB maximum gain.
It runs from a +28 V DC nominal supply, with a 24 V to 32 V operating voltage range. Typical current is listed at 30 A, with 36 A maximum. The mechanical form factor is 200 x 158 x 25 mm, with approximately 1.4 kg weight and external heat-sink cooling.
Application Fit
This amplifier is relevant when the frequency plan is known and the system needs power concentration inside 5150-5350 MHz rather than multi-octave coverage. Typical applications include narrowband RF amplification, communication systems, RF test and measurement, and system-level RF source integration.
For teams comparing this model against broader 2-6 GHz RF amplifier options, the key question is whether the project needs full-band flexibility or a focused 200 W narrowband stage. A narrowband model can simplify the selection conversation when the operating window is fixed.
Gain Control and Source Options
The datasheet lists a 20 dB gain adjustment range with 0.5 dB steps. That allows the amplifier to be calibrated into a chain where the source output, cable loss, couplers, filters, and antenna path are already defined.
CorelixRF also lists available M and V configurations. The M version is an amplifier module without internal VCO, while the V version includes an internal VCO source and scan function with 10 Hz stepping. The datasheet lists V-version frequency and bandwidth adjustment range from 5060 / 80 MHz to 5450 / 450 MHz. Buyers should confirm whether the system will use an external RF source or benefit from the VCO configuration.
Interfaces, Cooling, and Packaging
The RF connector reference is SMA-KFD46 for RF input and output on applicable configurations. The control interface is D-Sub 15-pin female, with optional RS485 monitoring/control. The power connector is listed as pull-core capacitance.
External heat-sink cooling should be reviewed early. A 200 W CW RF amplifier needs a defined thermal path, and the final chassis should not be designed before heat-sink dimensions, airflow, mounting surface, and ambient operating temperature are checked. CorelixRF’s custom RF amplifier review should include a drawing or installation envelope whenever possible.
Protection and Diagnostics
The CRF-PA-5150M5350M-200W lists over-temperature shutdown/recovery, over-VSWR locked shutdown, over-voltage lock above 32 V, and over-current lock above 38 A. Optional monitoring can include RS485, forward/reverse power indication, temperature output, and alarm reset where applicable.
These are practical features for OEM systems because they make amplifier state visible. For test systems, they help operators understand whether an output drop is caused by drive level, load mismatch, thermal behavior, or a protection event.
RFQ Guidance
A useful RFQ should include the exact operating frequency or sweep plan, required output power at the amplifier output or load, waveform type, duty condition, input drive range, gain-control needs, heat-sink plan, connector preferences, control protocol requirements, and documentation needs such as mechanical drawings or test data.
Manufacturing and Validation Notes
For a 200 W narrowband GaN module, validation should include more than a single output-power reading. Ask for the applicable swept curve data, mechanical drawing, connector reference, and test conditions used for power and gain confirmation. If the amplifier will be installed in an OEM enclosure, provide the enclosure thermal plan so CorelixRF can review whether the external heat-sink assumption still matches the final installation.
FAQ
What frequency range does this amplifier cover?
The datasheet specifies 5150 MHz to 5350 MHz operation.
What output power is listed?
The model is listed at 200 W rated CW output power, with 160 W minimum saturated output power.
Does it support gain adjustment?
Yes. The datasheet lists 20 dB gain adjustment with 0.5 dB steps.
What cooling method is used?
The amplifier uses external heat-sink cooling, so the final mechanical and thermal design should be reviewed with CorelixRF.