Wideband diplexed feed chains for FSS + BSS applications

Three different RF chain architectures operating in the FSS (fixed satellite services) + BSS (broadcast satellite) spectrum are presented and discussed. The RF chains are based on a common wideband corrugated feed horn, but differ on the approach used for bands and polarizations separation. A breadboard of a novel self-diplexed configuration has been designed, manufactured and tested. It proves to be the preferred candidate for bandwidth, losses and power handling. Very good correlation of the RF performance to the theoretical design is found.