New dual channel S-band capable space-grade ADC

The new EV12AD550 1.5GSps ADC from e2v supports high dynamic range at 4.5GHz and S-band direct digitization, which enables space systems to avoid costly down conversion requirements. Future Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Earth observation systems, for example, will be able to operate this ADC at up to 5.5GHz without the need for down conversion. The removal of down conversion stages reduces the weight, size and power consumption of the overall space system, helping to reduce expensive orbit costs. The EV12AD550 is the first S-band ADC to feature chain synchronisation for electronic steering which offers full flexibility in antenna array and digital beamforming systems. The growing demand for electronically adapting satellite ground coverage makes chain synchronisation crucial; without this, antennas have to be directed using mechanics, meaning coverage is predetermined, says the company. Laurent Monge, vice president of semiconductors, e2v, commented: "With the cost of sending just 1kg into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) being as high as $50k, reducing system size, weight and power consumption is critical to our customers. The EV12AD550 can remove as many as all three down conversion stages in an RF signal chain."