In addition to the options for input and output interfaces and package style, QuinStar also offers a wide range of useful options, added features and practical configurations to suit customers’ specific requirements. These optional features may be incorporated in most of the amplifier products offered by QuinStar Technology. If desired, more than one option may be selected for some amplifiers. Some of the most commonly supplied options are:
- Gain Control (Option G): A DC analog control signal may be applied to vary the gain of the amplifier over a wide range. This feature may be used with the power monitoring option to implement automatic gain control (AGC) or power output level control (ALC) functions
- Built-in detector output (Option D): A built-in detector circuit detects sampled or coupled portion of output signal power. The detector’s output voltage is made available for monitoring amplifier’s output power. This detected signal may be used for automatic gain control, power monitoring or for built-in test.
- Dual Output (Option M): In addition to the main power output, a second output signal may also be provided. The second output may be derived by splitting the amplifier’s output signal in any desired ratio or at any coupling level. Alternatively, a sample or coupled portion of an intermediate amplifier stage may be provided as the second output.
- Pulse Modulation or TTL Switching (Option P): The amplifier output may be pulsed or switched ON and OFF by an external signal. This option may be used to produce a narrow pulsed output from a CW input signal, or for switching the amplifier, thus reducing the DC power consumption and the heat dissipated in the amplifier. Typical turn-on and turn-off times are 10 and 20 ns, respectively. Minimum pulse width that may be generated is 100 ns.
- Thermal Protection (Option T): The amplifier’s internal power supply is switched off automatically if the case temperature exceeds a predetermined maximum value thus protecting the amplifier form permanent damage.
- Temperature compensation (Option C): Compensation or correction for changes in gain due to variation in temperature may be provided for certain amplifiers as an option.
- Phase matched (Option F): QuinStar can supply a set of amplifiers with their output phase characteristics matched to each other.
- Active Cooling (Option A): Heat sink with a fan is provided to cool the amplifier to temperatures within the safe limits.
- Power Supplies (Option S): Power supplies that allow the operation of the amplifier using AC voltage is integrated with the amplifier in a compact package.
- Limiter (Option L): A limiter that protects the amplifier from damage from excessive input power is incorporated in the amplifier circuit.
- Phase Shifter (Option B): Digital phase shifters are integrated within the amplifiers to provide the capability of shifting the output phase in suitable increments.
- Integral or External Isolator (Option I): Isolators are integrated with the amplifier’s input and/or output to improve the match. Isolators may be incorporated within the amplifier housing (Integral Isolators) or externally connected (External Isolators) to achieve the desired match into the amplifier’s input and/or output.