Spacewalker LNA 434 MHz is Designed to Improved Satellite Signal Reception

The Spacewalker LNA 434 MHz is a specialized Low-Noise Amplifier designed to improve reception of 70 cm band CubeSat signals, particularly in urban areas with high RF interference. It features Qorvo QPL9547 LNA ICs for effective amplification, includes double amplification and triple-filtered design for clarity, and includes robust shielding for signal integrity.

Developed by Decent Labs based in Budapest, Hungary, the Spacewalker LNA 434 MHz addresses the common problem of receiving weak satellite signals, such as those from PocketSat and CubeSat, in areas saturated with RF interference from sources like DVB-T, TETRA, FM, and LTE signals.

The company said that this unique LNA was inspired by the challenges faced while trying to pick up signals from the MRC-100 pocket satellite. After extensive experimentation and research, the team devised a low-noise amplifier circuit that significantly improves signal reception amidst urban RF chatter.

Spacewalker LNA 434 MHz Specification:

• Dual Qorvo QPL9547 LNA ICs: Features double amplification with advanced Qorvo QPL9547 ICs, offering a low noise figure of ~0.2 dB and a gain of 25 dB at 434 MHz.
• Triple-Filtered Design: Utilizes 434 MHz SAW filters for triple filtering, ensuring low insertion loss and enhanced signal clarity.
• VDD Bias Points: Equipped with resonant inductive filtering at VDD bias points for effective reduction of external noise.
• Metal Cages for Isolation: Includes 3 metal cages, ensuring each LNA stage is well-isolated and protected from external interference.
• 4-Layer PCB: The four-layer PCB design provides additional natural shielding, especially for sensitive VDD lines and other critical components.
• Short Coax Pigtail: Comes with a short coax pigtail on the antenna input, designed to protect against static discharge events and extend the lifespan of the LNA.

The company also states that the design’s effectiveness has been proven through its use in several SatNOGS stations across Europe, including locations in Hungary and the Netherlands.

The Spacewalker LNA 434 MHz is currently in the ‘coming soon’ stage, with availability to be announced shortly. Further details can be found on the Decent Labs crowdsupply page.

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