Amkom AMKU40FMR 40W Extended Ku-Band BUC

by Hamid Bagheri  |  November 7, 2025

In today’s satellite communication landscape, compactness, performance, and reliability are everything. The Amkom AMKU40FMR Extended Ku-Band Block Upconverter (BUC) delivers all three — and more. Known across the satcom industry as one of the world’s smallest and most powerful 40-watt Ku-Band BUCs, this model redefines what professionals expect from uplink performance. Whether it’s for VSAT terminals, broadcast systems, or government and defense communications, the AMKU40FMR ensures rock-solid transmission, extreme durability, and long-term stability in the harshest environments.

Now available at VSATPlus, this cutting-edge BUC provides customers with a top-tier, field-proven solution for next-generation satellite uplink systems.


The AMKU40FMR belongs to Amkom’s “Mini Brick” series — a collection of ultra-light, high-efficiency outdoor BUCs engineered to fit directly on feed horns and boom arms. Weighing only 3.1 lbs (1.4 kg), this unit delivers a minimum of 40W PSAT output while maintaining outstanding thermal management and structural integrity.

Every AMKU40FMR is fully assembled and rigorously tested at Amkom’s California facility under military-grade conditions (MIL-STD-810E/F). The design combines GaAs (Gallium Arsenide) and GaN (Gallium Nitride) amplifier technologies — a perfect marriage of efficiency and power. The result? Maximum linearity, higher gain, and extended operational lifespan with minimal maintenance.

Unlike bulkier BUCs that trade weight for stability, the AMKU40FMR uses aerospace-grade aluminum to provide both rigidity and optimal heat dissipation. Its Hyper-Light Package is IP67/IP68 rated for full protection against moisture, dust, and vibration, making it a trusted choice for mobile, maritime, and fixed satellite networks.


  • Ultra-lightweight design (3.1 lbs / 1.4 kg) — ideal for mobile and feed-mounted systems
  • High power output: 40W PSAT (min), 32W linear
  • Wide Extended Ku-Band operation: 13.75–14.50 GHz
  • Superior linearity and phase noise performance
  • Built-in HPA overdrive protection circuit
  • Extreme temperature endurance: up to +60°C operating
  • Optimized linearization and receive band reject filter
  • RS-232/485, FSK, and Ethernet M&C options
  • Triple protection sealed WR75 waveguide output
  • Field-replaceable IP68 long-life fans
  • Compliant with MIL-STD-810E/F vibration and shock standards
  • 3-year warranty — fully tested and assembled in the USA

ParameterSpecification
Operating RF Frequency13.75 – 14.50 GHz
Operating IF Frequency950 – 1700 MHz
Local Oscillator (LO)12.80 GHz
Output Power40W (46 dBm PSAT min), 32W (45 dBm PLIN min)
Gain (typical)70 dB (min 66 dB, temperature compensated)
Gain Flatness±0.75 dB max over 40 MHz
TX Gain Variation (50 MHz / 500 MHz)±0.5 dB / ±1.5 dB
Input VSWR1.5:1
Output VSWR1.2:1
IMD3 (Two-Tone)-25 dBc max @ 3 dB backoff
Spurious (In/Out Band)-60 dBc max
Noise Power Density (TX)-85 dBm/Hz
Noise Power Density (RX)-155 dBm/Hz (10.95–12.75 GHz)
Phase Noise (Ext. Ref.)-115 dBc/Hz @ 10 Hz, -135 dBc/Hz @ 100 Hz, -150 dBc/Hz @ 1 kHz
Reference Frequency10 MHz, external or internal optional
Reference Level0 dBm ±5 dBm
Monitor & ControlRS232/485, FSK, Ethernet
Power Supply+22 – 55 VDC
Power Consumption205W @ PSAT, 155W @ PLIN
Environmental StandardMIL-STD-810E/F compliant
Operating Temperature-40°C to +60°C
Storage Temperature-60°C to +85°C
Humidity100% condensing, IP67 rated
Shock / Vibration20g peak, 11ms half sine / MIL-STD-810F
AltitudeUp to 21,500 ft (6,500 m)
Weight3.1 lbs (1.4 kg)
Dimensions (LxWxH)6” x 3.7” x 2.91” (152x94x74 mm)
Output InterfaceWR75 waveguide, sealed and grooved
IF Connector OptionsN-type (50Ω) or F-type (75Ω)

The AMKU40FMR is built around Amkom’s hybrid GaAs + GaN amplifier chain, which offers the best of both semiconductor technologies. GaN transistors are known for their efficiency, linearity, and high-temperature performance, while GaAs delivers clean signal amplification with superior noise control. Together, they ensure that the BUC maintains maximum efficiency and low spectral regrowth even under heavy load.

Amkom engineers have also implemented built-in overdrive protection and noise suppression filters to safeguard internal electronics and connected systems from voltage or signal anomalies. These integrated features make the AMKU40FMR one of the most dependable Ku-Band BUCs in its power class.

The triple-sealed WR75 waveguide interface and anti-vibration mounting mean it can withstand years of operation in harsh remote environments — from desert hubs to maritime uplinks.


Exceptional Linearity for Advanced Modulations

This model exceeds IESS-308/309 phase noise standards, guaranteeing clean and stable transmissions compatible with advanced modulation schemes such as QPSK, 8PSK, and higher-order DVB-S2X formats.

Its optimized linearization circuitry ensures consistent performance across wide frequency spans, making it ideal for broadband satellite IP networks, high-throughput VSATs, and video uplinks.

Ruggedized for the Field

Built for extreme conditions, the AMKU40FMR operates in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +60°C. It uses IP68-rated, field-replaceable cooling fans and heavy-duty seals for complete weather protection. The aerospace-grade aluminum housing minimizes weight without compromising on protection — critical for feed-mounted applications where balance and load affect antenna stability.

Intelligent M&C Interface

Operators can monitor and control the BUC through RS-232/485, Ethernet, or FSK interfaces, allowing integration into network management systems (NMS) or remote terminal units (RTUs).

This gives service providers and field engineers real-time control over output power, temperature, alarms, and performance statistics.


The AMKU40FMR is designed for a wide range of satellite uplink scenarios:

  • VSAT networks for enterprise and government
  • Broadcast and media uplinks requiring clean, linear signal transmission
  • Maritime and mobility terminals where space and weight are limited
  • Teleports and gateways as part of redundant RF chain setups
  • Military and emergency response systems demanding rugged performance

Its combination of low weight, high power, and flexible control makes it equally at home in both fixed installations and on-the-move (COTM) platforms.


  1. Compact Power: At only 3.1 lbs, it is the lightest 40W Ku-Band BUC in the industry. Perfect for antenna boom mounts.
  2. Extreme Linearity: GaN + GaAs hybrid amplifiers ensure clean EVM and low phase noise, exceeding IESS-308/309.
  3. Energy Efficient: Consumes only 205W at saturation, outperforming bulkier competitors in thermal efficiency.
  4. Rugged Construction: MIL-STD-810E/F compliance and IP67 sealing make it field-ready for harsh outdoor environments.
  5. Ease of Integration: Supports multiple control interfaces — RS232/485, Ethernet, and FSK — for flexible system management.
  6. Made in the USA: Each unit is manufactured, assembled, and tested in California under rigorous quality standards.
  7. Maintenance-Friendly: Fans are field-replaceable, ensuring long-term reliability and easy serviceability.
  8. 3-Year Warranty: A solid commitment to durability and quality.

At VSATPlus, we specialize in delivering certified, high-performance satellite communication hardware from the world’s leading brands.

When you choose to order the Amkom AMKU40FMR 40W Ku-Band BUC through VSATPlus, you get:

  • Genuine Amkom equipment with manufacturer support
  • Competitive global pricing and shipping options
  • Technical assistance from experienced satellite professionals
  • End-to-end solutions — including modems, antennas, routers, and accessories

Our goal is to provide businesses and integrators with reliable, future-proof satellite hardware that keeps their networks running smoothly — anywhere in the world.


The Amkom AMKU40FMR Extended Ku-Band BUC is a triumph of engineering — compact, robust, and extraordinarily capable. Designed for professional uplinks that demand high efficiency and absolute reliability, it stands out as the definitive choice for modern VSAT and broadcast networks.

With its advanced hybrid amplifier design, extreme environmental resilience, and unbeatable weight-to-power ratio, this model is the benchmark for 40-Watt Ku-Band BUCs.

Explore the Amkom AMKU40FMR today on www.vsatplus.com and power your satellite network with next-generation performance.

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