[Satellite TODAY 11-09-11] Comtech Xicom Technology introduced its new compact 20-Watt solid-state Ka-band block up converter (BUC) for commercial and military Ka-band satellite communications uplinks, the company announced Nov. 8.

            The XTS-20KaL-B1 was designed to provide high data-rate satellite communications uplinks and is available covering 29.0 to 30 GHz, or 30 to 31 GHz. The unit features 10 Watts of linear power in an 18-pound antenna-mount package, measuring 11.6-inches long x 5.5-inches high x 6.5-inches wide, and is very energy efficient, typically consuming only 180 Watts. 

            Comtech Xicom said the product was optimized for transportable satcom terminals that require high linear power and to be mechanically interchangeable with existing Xicom solid-state products in X- and Ku-bands for terminals designed to support multiple bands.