Gilat Satellite Networks reports that its wholly owned subsidiary Wavestream introduced a new 80W X-band Matchbox solid state power amplifier to address the needs of military and government applications. The 80W X-band offers both efficiency and performance that make it particularly well suited for mobile SATCOM, flyaway and VSAT satellite communication systems.

"Staying connected and delivering content reliably is critical to military and government operations," stated Gary Echo, Vice President of Business Development at Wavestream.

"The 80W X-band product is the latest addition to our growing family of X, Ku and Ka-band products that incorporate our Spatial advantEdge technology to provide efficient, high power output in smaller, lighter product packages suitable for fixed and flyaway antenna systems.

"Our 80W X-band is designed and thoroughly tested for use in extreme environments, helping provide uninterrupted connectivity to support mission-critical operations, including humanitarian, disaster recovery, homeland security, and relief and rescue operations worldwide."

Wavestream's 80W X-band's small footprint (11" x 5.4" x 4.4") and light weight (11 lb) package can be easily integrated and mounted onto the antenna feed to limit waveguide loss. Every unit is thoroughly tested to assure performance over the full frequency band and over the full temperature range.

The X-band is also biased for Class AB operation, drawing less power when backed off to help save valuable energy resources. The product also generates less heat, ensuring better Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) for greater reliability and lower lifecycle maintenance costs.

The X-band's modular design provides the flexibility needed to integrate different frequency bands into the system design.

The product has a compatible form, fit and function footprint to Wavestream's 12W Ka-band and 40W Ku-band Matchbox block upconverters, offering a convenient way to integrate a different band without changing the terminal or altering the hardware. The 80W X-band is available for immediate delivery.