Microwave power modules: now and in the future

Litton has been a supplier of Microwave Power Modules (MPMs) since the program started in 1992. Initial development focused on MPMs operating in the 6 to 18 GHz frequency band for military platforms. Key features of this new product were significant reductions in size, weight, and dramatic improvements in efficiency over traditional TWTAs. Subsequent development extended the frequency coverage from 2 to 8 GHz and 18 to 40 GHz. In addition and unique to Litton, a full line of commercial MPMs for instrumentation and SATCOM applications has been developed. This paper reviews the performance of existing products, provides detailed performance data on recent development, and a discussion of future directions.