XMC embedded computing module for communications and other RF and microwave uses introduced by Pentek

March 9, 2021
Programmable low-noise amplifier enables the Maxim MAX2121 tuner to convert L-Band signals to IF or baseband using a broadband analog downconverter.

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, N.J. – Pentek Inc. in Upper Saddle River, N.J., is introducing the Jade model 71891 Switched Mezzanine Card (XMC) module, an L-Band RF tuner with two 400 MHz A/D converters for connection to SATCOM or communications system L-band signals.

The Jade model 71891 embedded computing module is based on the high-density Xilinx Kintex UltraScale field-programmable gate array (FPGA). A front-panel SSMC connector accepts L-Band signals between 925 and 2175 MHz, typically from an L-Band antenna or a low noise block (LNB).

With its programmable low-noise amplifier, the Maxim MAX2121 tuner converts these L-Band signals to IF or baseband using a broadband I/Q analog downconverter followed by 123 MHz low pass anti-aliasing filters. Digitizing the two analog tuner outputs are two Texas Instruments ADS5474 400 MHz 14-bit A/D converters to capture 123 MHz bandwidth.

Related: FPGA-based embedded computing XMC data converter module for RF and microwave tasks introduced by Pentek

For best performance, the RF and microwave analog outputs of the MAX2121 can function in the IF mode instead of the analog baseband I+Q mode. In this case, each A/D converter digitizes an IF signal and then delivers it to a display data channel to produce perfectly balanced complex I+Q digital baseband samples for enhanced demodulation performance.

Two independent A/D and display data channels are available for digitizing and downconverting two signals with different center frequencies and bandwidths.

The model 71891 features two acquisition IP modules to capture and move data. Each module can receive data from either of the two A/Ds or a test signal generator. Each Acquisition IP module contains a display data channel IP core with decimation values from 2 to 64k.

For more information contact Pentek online at www.pentek.com.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!