Space Applications

RF Microwave Space Technology: LEO, GEO

The growing interest in space, spanning both commercial and defense sectors, has fueled the demand for electronic component solutions that are more cost-effective. In certain cases, new applications may necessitate the survivability of a component for only a relatively short period, ranging from 3 to 5 years, especially in less-demanding environments like a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite.

Space and Defense Products

Integrated Microwave Assemblies (IMAs)

With our hybrid design capability, we can integrate multiple functions inside a module or incorporate the IMA into a larger assembly. A short list of items that can be integrated using chip-in-wire and SMT components are: LNAs and power amplifiers, switches, upconverters, downconverters, voltage variable attenuators, and LDOs.

Amplifiers

Our expertise in defense and radiation hardened space amplifiers has launched high-efficiency amplifiers, ultra-low-noise LNAs, amplifiers with integrated limiters and voltage variable attenuators to 50 GHz and 20W.

Low Noise Amplifiers to 40 GHz
Broadband Amplifiers to 50 GHz
Power Amplifiers to 20 Watts
Temperature Compensated Amplifiers
Limiting Amplifiers
AGC Amplifiers

Frequency Converters

Our frequency converter designs have increased capability compared with that of standard mixers. We integrate filters, amplifiers, switches, and any other customer requirements. Options include upconverters and downconverters, as well as full uplinks and downlinks.

Upconverters to 31 GHz
Downconverters to 30 GHz

UEC RF-Microwave Capabilities

20 Years of Space Heritage – in-orbit hardware on commercial and military programs.
Design & Analysis – RF Cascade, linear and Non-linear simulation, component derating, thermal analysis, mechanical 3D modeling, CTE analysis, reliability, and RadHard analysis.
Manufacturing and Test – 16,000 sq. ft. ESD protected manufacturing. 3,600 sq. ft. Class 2 clean room space flight center. Supporting hybrid, SMT and chip-and-wire assembly, in-house machine shop, signal and power test equipment up to 50 GHz.
Screening – Shock and vibe testing, PIND, temperature cycle, thermal shock, constant acceleration, burn in and life test.

MIL-PRF-38534 Requirements

Level 1, QPL Class K:

UEC possesses a track record in delivering essential components for life support and mission-critical situations and meeting the needs of single-string and single-point failure requirements.

Level 2, QPL Class H:

UEC engineers and manufactures RF modules tailored for general-purpose space flight applications, adhering to MIL-STD-883 specifications.

Level 3, QPL Class G, D, E, L:

UEC has the capability to manufacture hardware in accordance with MIL-STD requirements, but with a streamlined qualification testing process suitable for less-critical applications.

UEC RF-Microwave’s space-based system design and manufacturing follow these processes:

Compliance with Standards: Ensure that all RF and microwave systems conform to stringent specifications and design guidelines in accordance with MIL-STD-883, MIL-PRF-38534, and EEE-INST-002.
Expert Design and Manufacturing: Leverage UEC RF-Microwave’s extensive proficiencies in the complete process of design through manufacturing, from initial technical guidance to final customer acceptance.
Program Management: Utilize UEC RF-Microwave’s skilled program management team to provide superior customer communications in a concise and timely manner.
Hi-Rel RF Designs: Incorporate high-reliability RF designs and components, capitalizing on UEC RF-Microwave’s recognized success in the aerospace industry.
Future Development: Support opportunities for development of amplifiers, IMAs, and various system-level components, leveraging UEC RF-Microwave’s industry expertise.

Space Applications