Microchip GMICP2731-10, signal quality
Earth station at high RF levels without damage
Maintaining signal fidelity while supporting transmission


Satellite communication systems use complex modulation schemes to achieve the data rates required for video and broadband data transmission. This requires providing high RF output power while ensuring that the signal maintains ideal characteristics.

Microchip Technology Inc. today introduced a power amplifier, the GMICP2731-10 GaN monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC), that meets these requirements without compromising RF power and signal fidelity. The GaN MMIC is designed for commercial and defense satellite communications, 5G networks, and other aerospace and defense systems.

The GMICP2731-10 is manufactured using GaN-on-SiC technology and provides up to 10 W of saturated RF output power over a 3.5 GHz bandwidth in the 27.5 to 31 GHz range. It has 20% power-added efficiency, 22 dB small-signal gain, and 15 dB return loss. It is well matched to 50 ohms and includes an integrated DC blocking capacitor at the output to simplify design integration.

“As communications systems adopt complex modulation schemes such as 128-QAM, and solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs) continue to increase in power, RF power amplifier designers must look for high-power solutions while also reducing weight and power consumption,” said Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip’s Discrete business unit.

“GaN MMICs used in high-power SSPAs have reduced power and weight by more than 30% compared to GaAs products,” he said. “The GMIC2731-10 realizes the potential of GaN and can provide the size, weight, power, and cost that OEMs are pursuing.”

Additionally, the GMICP2731-10 complements the company’s existing portfolio of GaA MMIC RF power amplifiers, switches, low-noise amplifiers and Wi-Fi front-end modules (FEMs), as well as GaN-on-SiC HEMT driver and amplifier transistor products for radar systems.

Microchip and its authorized distributors and sales offices provide board design assistance to aid design, as well as the GMICP2731-10 miniature model to more easily model power amplifier performance and accelerate design in Microchip systems.

The GMICP2731-10 is in production. For more information, contact a Microchip sales representative or visit the Microchip website. To purchase, visit the Microchip purchasing portal or an authorized distributor.