RF power amplifiers are primarily categorized into two types based on their operating mode: Continuous Wave (CW) amplifiers and pulsed amplifiers. While both serve the function of amplifying RF signals, they differ fundamentally in everything from design philosophy to application scenarios.
A CW amplifier continuously amplifies any input signal—provided it falls within the amplifier's operating range—including both continuous wave and modulated signals. It functions much like an incandescent light bulb that stays lit continuously as long as power is supplied.
A pulsed amplifier operates differently; it amplifies the signal only when an external pulse signal is applied to its pulse input, effectively acting as a gated system. It is more akin to a camera flash, emitting an intense burst of light at specific moments while remaining inactive the rest of the time.
|
Comparison Dimension |
CW Power Amplifier |
Pulsed Power Amplifier |
|
Operating Mode |
Continuously amplifies the input signal without interruption |
Amplifies only when triggered by a pulse signal; operates via gating
|
|
Output State |
Continuous output; 100% duty cycle |
Periodic "on-off" operation; duty cycle typically 1%–20% |
|
Peak Power vs. Average Power |
Peak Power ≈ Average Power |
Peak Power >> Average Power |
|
Thermal Load |
Continuously high load; requires forced cooling |
Low average power; minimal heat dissipation stress |
|
Power Supply Requirements |
Requires continuous, stable power supply |
Requires capability to deliver high instantaneous current |
|
Typical Uses |
Communications, EMC testing, satellite communications |
Radar, electronic warfare, pulse testing |
|
Response Speed |
Rapid response not emphasized |
Requires nanosecond-level rapid response |
Typical Application
CW power amplifiers:
1. EMC radiated immunity testing facilities
2. Satellite communications (SATCOM)
3. Continuous wave electronic jamming
4. RF heating and industrial applications
5. Medical equipment
Pulsed power amplifiers:
1. Radar systems
2. Electronic warfare and electronic countermeasures
3. Pulse testing and measurement
4. Automotive millimeter-wave radar
When to choose a CW power amplifier:
- Your signal is continuously modulated (communications, broadcasting)
- A stable continuous-wave field strength is required (EMC testing)
- Long-duration, uninterrupted output is required
When to choose a pulsed power amplifier:
- Your signal is a radar pulse or a pulse-modulated signal
- Very high peak power is required, but average power is limited
- Applications include electronic warfare, radar detection, etc.
If the system needs to support both modes:
A modular combination design can be adopted, or choose a dedicated dual-mode power amplifier—switching between CW and pulse modes by adjusting the operating voltage
Coreal Product Coverage
CW Power Amplifier Series: Covers 1.5 MHz - 50 GHz, with power levels ranging from a few watts to several kilowatts; suitable for continuous wave (CW) applications such as EMC testing, satellite communications, and RF heating.
Pulsed Power Amplifier Series: Covering P-band through Ku-band with peak power up to 5,000 W; designed specifically for pulsed applications like radar and electronic warfare—such as the P2735H63 S-band (2700–3500 MHz) 2,000 W pulsed power amplifier.
Quality Commitment: ISO 9001 & CE certified; 36-month warranty.
Whether you require CW or pulsed power amplifiers, Coreal provides reliable products and technical support, ranging from standard modules to fully customized solutions.
Learn More
Visit our Product Center to view detailed model specifications, or contact us directly for technical selection assistance.
Tel.: +86 28 6433 0048
Mob.: +86-18111623032
E-mail: sales@corealmw.com