Com-Power PAM-118 User Manual
Application, Features, Preamplifier description

B-3
Application
The PAM-118 preamplifier increases system sensitivity
to low level signals from equipment under test during
EMC testing. It also provides input isolation to your
spectrum analyzer or receiver.
During EMC measurements the antennas are usually
placed at a distance of 1 -10 meters from the equip-
ment under test. Most antennas operating above 1 GHz
typically have high antenna factors. In addition, long
interconneting cables operating in the microwave fre-
quencies usually have high cable losses. These factors
make it difficult to see the radiation from the equip-
ment under test above the floor noise of the spectrum
analyzer. The preamplifier improves system sensitivity
by amplifying the signals picked by the antenna before
it reaches the spectrum analyzer.
The system sensitivity can be further improved by
connecting the PAM-118 preamplifier right at the
antenna output. Placing the preamplifier close to the
receiving antenna will reduce the effects of high cable
loss associated with long cables.
Features
Ultra Wideband - 500 MHz - 18 GHz
High Gain - 24 dB minimum
Flat Response - ± 1.25 dB.
Low Noise Figure - 3 dB max.
Power @1 dB Gain Compression - +17 dBm
Com-Power Corporation
(949) 587 - 9800
www. com-power.com
PAM-118
Preamplifier
Description
The model PAM-118 is a broadband, high gain, bench
top microwave preamplifier. The PA-118 has a frequen-
cy range of 500 MHz to 18 GHz. This preamplifier
is primarily intended for EMC applications. However,
it can be used for other application that require signal
amplification. The PAM-118 reduces floor noise and
increases system sensitivity to low level signals during
Electromagnetic Interference (EMC) testing.
The simple front panel consists of two 50 Ohm matched
SMA connectors for input and output. The preamplifier
was designed to have minimal gain variation for the
entire frequency range. The consistent gain reduces
EMC measurement errors. It also has low VSWR and
noise figure.
Each preamplifier is individually calibrated using
equipment traceable to National Institute of Standards
and Technology. The data and certificate of calibration
is shipped with the unit. The PAM-118 is powered by
18 VDC, 1 Amp wall plug adapter.