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Satellite communication systems depend on highly reliable RF equipment to ensure stable uplink performance, maximize bandwidth efficiency, and maintain continuous connectivity in demanding environments. One of the most important components in any satellite uplink chain is the Block Up Converter (BUC), which converts intermediate frequency (IF) signals into high-frequency RF signals suitable for satellite transmission.
As modern VSAT, enterprise, mobility, government, defense, maritime, and broadcast applications continue demanding higher throughput and better reliability, BUC manufacturers are challenged to create products that combine high output power, compact dimensions, excellent efficiency, and extreme durability.
The AMKOM AMKU40 Extended Ku-Band BUC successfully meets these requirements.
Designed as part of AMKOM’s innovative “MINI BRICK” Series, the AMKU40 is marketed as the world’s smallest outdoor 40W Ku-Band BUC. Despite weighing only 1.4 kg (3.1 lbs), it delivers a minimum 40W saturated output power, advanced GaAs + GaN amplifier technology, military-grade environmental durability, and exceptional RF performance.
At VSATplus, customers can order the AMKOM AMKU40 Extended Ku-Band BUC with technical consultation, deployment support, and worldwide delivery.
A Block Up Converter (BUC) serves a critical function in satellite transmission systems.
Its responsibilities include:
The quality of a BUC directly affects:
A poorly designed BUC can introduce distortion, phase noise, frequency instability, and excessive power consumption.
The AMKU40 was developed to eliminate these issues while providing maximum performance in a remarkably compact package.
The AMKU40 belongs to AMKOM’s renowned MINI BRICK family of outdoor BUCs.
According to the manufacturer, the design objective was straightforward:
Create the smallest possible outdoor Ku-Band BUC without sacrificing reliability, power, thermal performance, or RF quality.
To accomplish this, AMKOM utilized:
The result is a professional-grade outdoor BUC that combines portability and durability with carrier-class performance.
One of the most impressive aspects of the AMKU40 is its size.
The unit measures:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 152 mm |
| Width | 94 mm |
| Height | 74 mm |
| Weight | 1.4 kg |
This makes it one of the smallest outdoor 40W Ku-Band BUCs available.
Benefits include:
The AMKU40 provides:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Saturated Output Power | 40W Minimum |
| PSAT | 46 dBm |
| Linear Output Power | 32W |
| P-LIN | 45 dBm |
This level of power makes the BUC suitable for:
The AMKU40 combines:
According to the product sheet, this hybrid design delivers:
Power amplifiers can be damaged by excessive drive levels.
To protect the hardware, the AMKU40 includes:
Built-in HPA Overdrive Circuit Protection
Benefits:
The AMKU40 incorporates:
Built-in optimized linearization
Advantages:
The BUC includes a built-in receive reject filter.
Performance:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Rejection | +30 dB |
| Optional Rejection | +50 dB |
Benefits:
The AMKU40 supports:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| RF Frequency | 13.75 – 14.50 GHz |
| IF Frequency | 950 – 1700 MHz |
| Local Oscillator | 12.80 GHz |
This makes it suitable for Extended Ku-Band satellite networks worldwide.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Minimum Gain | 66 dB |
| Typical Gain | 70 dB |
| Gain Variation (50 MHz) | ±0.5 dB |
| Gain Variation (500 MHz) | ±1.5 dB |
| Gain Flatness | ±0.75 dB |
High gain stability is critical for maintaining link performance under varying environmental conditions.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input VSWR | 1.5 : 1 |
| Output VSWR | 1.2 : 1 |
Low VSWR contributes to:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| IMD3 | -25 dBc Max |
| In-Band / Out-Band Spurious | -60 dBc Max |
These characteristics help maintain clean and efficient satellite transmissions.
The AMKU40 exceeds IESS-308 and IESS-309 standards.
| Offset | Phase Noise |
|---|---|
| 10 Hz | -55 dBc/Hz |
| 100 Hz | -65 dBc/Hz |
| 1 kHz | -75 dBc/Hz |
| 10 kHz | -85 dBc/Hz |
| 100 kHz | -95 dBc/Hz |
This helps ensure excellent carrier quality and stable operation.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| TX Noise Power Density | -85 dBm/Hz |
| RX Noise Power Density | -155 dBm/Hz |
These values contribute to improved satellite link performance.
The AMKU40 offers advanced monitoring and control options.
Supported interfaces include:
This flexibility simplifies integration into modern satellite network management platforms.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| External Reference | 10 MHz |
| Reference Level | 0 dBm ±5 dBm |
| Internal Reference | Optional High Stability Version |
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage | +22 to +55 VDC |
| Power Consumption (PSAT) | 205W |
| Power Consumption (P-LIN) | 155W |
The design provides excellent efficiency relative to its power output.
One of the strongest aspects of the AMKU40 is its environmental resilience.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -60°C to +85°C |
| Humidity | 100% Condensing |
| Protection Rating | IP67 |
| Fan Protection | IP68 |
The BUC complies with:
Including vibration testing according to Method 514.5 C-2 Transport.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Shock Rating | 20g Peak |
| Pulse Duration | 11 ms |
The AMKU40 supports operation at:
21,500 ft (6,500 m) altitude.
A unique optional feature is:
Stealth Linear Operation Mode
Features include:
This can be valuable in specialized deployments requiring reduced visibility or noise.
Reliable broadband connectivity for remote offices.
Secure and dependable communications infrastructure.
MIL-STD compliance supports demanding military deployments.
Compact size makes installation easier on vessels.
High linearity improves transmission quality.
Portable design enables rapid deployment.
Reliable satellite-based network expansion.
Key benefits include:
✔ World’s smallest outdoor 40W Ku-Band BUC
✔ Lightweight 1.4 kg design
✔ 40W output power
✔ GaAs + GaN amplifier technology
✔ Built-in overdrive protection
✔ Optimized linearization
✔ MIL-STD compliance
✔ IP67/IP68 environmental protection
✔ Advanced management interfaces
✔ Excellent RF performance
✔ Three-year warranty
VSATplus supplies professional satellite communication equipment to customers worldwide.
When ordering the AMKU40 from VSATplus, customers benefit from:
Whether you are deploying a VSAT network, expanding a teleport, upgrading maritime communications, or implementing government infrastructure, VSATplus can help identify and deliver the right solution.
The AMKOM AMKU40 Extended Ku-Band BUC represents an impressive achievement in satellite RF engineering. Combining 40W output power, GaAs + GaN amplifier technology, military-grade durability, and one of the smallest form factors in the industry, it provides a powerful and efficient uplink solution for modern satellite networks.
For organizations seeking high-performance Ku-Band transmission equipment that balances power, reliability, and compact design, the AMKU40 is an outstanding choice—and it is available today from VSATplus.
