Several types of Radio Frequency (RF) tests are available at Stevenage. There is a large anechoic chamber for Power Handling, PIM and S parameter RF testing. There is a large thermal vacuum chamber for power handling and multipaction testing. Tests can be performed on waveguides, filters, antennas and up to complete spacecraft.
Electrical Test has two 4000W Ku Band amplifiers.
Frequency range of 10.0 to 12.75GHz
Can be configured to have two 2000W per amplifier.
Can be combined to give 8000W output
Protected with internal isolators but can withstand a full short circuit up to 57dBm
The amplifiers can be configured for use in the Anechoic Chamber free radiating with Power handling capability 1500W/m2 and also has RAM temperature monitoring using thermal imaging cameras. Or connected to the Dedicated TVAC chamber for power handling of components or for Multipaction testing of components.
Capabilities
Passive Inter Modulation (PIM) testing at L, C, Ku and Ka-band.Thermal PIM testing at C, Ku and Ka-band.Thermal PIM temperature range currently ±/140°C.PIM testing of reflectors, Feed Chain Assemblies and Complete Antennas.Power handling of Feed Assemblies.
Facilities
The Anechoic Chamber has the following:
Floor area 120 m2Dimensions in meters (10W x12L x 14H)Access Double swing doors 8m x 10mScreening effectiveness up to 100 dB up to 40GHzTemperature controlled to 20°C+/- 3°CRelative Humidity controlled to 50% +/- 10%Area controlled to ISO 8Contains thermal chamber temperature with a range ±/140°C for PIM testingPower handling capability 1500W/m2RAM temperature monitoring using thermal imaging