Ka-band dual LDLA - Ka Ingenious Space Solution (KISS)

  • Status
    Completed
  • Status date
    2014-01-21
Objectives
The objective of the study was to develop and qualify a dual LDLA :
  • to improve accommodation of such units on Communication Modules,
  • to answer to the growth of spot quantity on Multimedia architecture.
A dual LDLA is a LDLA including 2 RF chains instead of 1, which is in line with dual EPC supplying 2 TWTs instead of 1 (the LDLA provides the gain control and the linearization function needed with a TWT).
 
The dual LDLA is also needed to maintain Thales Alenia Space competitiveness on the market.

The development goal of the project is to develop a LDLA including 2 RF chains. It shall also provide flexibility for the control of the TWT saturation output power which up to now is a fix point. For multi-beam mission with a large number of beams it also offer a very compact solution (save of footprint on the satellite panel).

Challenges

The temperature range qualified is +65/-15°C

The random vibrations level qualified is:

As a result of this shock test campaign, the guaranteed shock capability of such a unit is as follows:
View of Dual LDLA:

 

The EQM stacked dual LDLA has successfully passed the following qualifications tests.

Benefits
The dual LDLA provides a needed brick to reduce  the footprint, improve the competitiveness and bring flexibility to the TWT management. Thus it helps  Thales Alenia Space to maintain its competitiveness on the market.
Features

The two RF chains are integrated independently in one mechanical structure. Each chain is composed of an amplifier module and a linearizer module. A unique TMTC card controls the 2 RF chains. The power supply is provided by the EPC.

The main difficulties, in addition to the new design of the TM/TC board, are the EMC, the thermal design between the 2 RF chains and the overall mechanical design.
Plan

The proposed development plan is divided in 2 batches: The first one is dedicated to the study of the TM/TC board, the development and the validation of the dual LDLA concept, supported by bread boarding activities, the second one is the formal qualification of the product, achieved with the manufacturing and test of an EQM LDLA dual.

Current status
Qualification tests and Final review are completed.

Documentation

Documentation may be requested

Last update
2025-02-20 13:45