TWT and SSPA GaN: What is the Difference?

More powerful, portable and affordable than traditional TWT (Travelling Wave Tube) technologies, they are revolutionising satellite communication and could transform your business too.  

In this article, we will be taking a closer look at what these two technologies are and explaining why you should upgrade your TWT devices to SSPA devices for better on-the-go news reporting.  

What are TWTs?  

Travelling Wave Tubes (TWTs) are specialised vacuum tubes used in electronics and to amplify radio frequency signals. Using a thermionic tube with an ultra-high vacuum, a cathode at hundreds of degrees, and high voltage, they transfer energy from an electron beam to a signal.  

 They’ve been widely used in satcom since the 1960s because they’re highly efficient, offer wide bandwidth, high power output and low noise. However, they can be expensive, complex to operate, difficult to take on location due to their size and weight and can take a long time to repair.  

What are SSPA GaN Devices?  

SSPA GaN devices are new alternatives to TWTs that are more reliable with reduced power consumption and faster switching speed. They use Gallium nitride (GaN), an extremely hard, mechanically stable wide bandgap semiconductor.  

 Its high electron mobility and high breakdown voltage (more than 100V) and lightweight, compact, flexible design make it ideal for satellite communication purposes.  

 Unlike traditional TWTs or other silicon-based devices, it offers more reliability, reduced power consumption, faster switching speed, and lower running costs to ensure you can capture live footage, wherever you are in the world.  

Why upgrade to GaN devices for Digital Satellite News Gathering? 

Given their technologically-advanced, reliable and lightweight designs, GaN devices are ideal for digital satellite news gathering or providing live coverage from remote or hard-to-reach areas. Here are the advantages they can offer your business or organisation.  

1. Enhanced reliability and durability

GaN devices won’t let you down when you’re on the road because they use solid-state technology that is more reliable and less susceptible to failures or interference.  

This contrasts with the complexity of TWTs and their vulnerability to wear and tear. When you upgrade your SSPA technology to GaN devices, you can continue to report the news anywhere without worrying about downtime or maintenance.  

2. Lightweight and compact for maximum flexibility 

When you are travelling to a remote destination or you’re on the road, portability and flexibility are key. While this has always been a challenge when you’re travelling with bulky and heavy TWT devices, you don’t need to worry when you adopt GaN technologies.  

They are small, compact, lightweight, and quick and easy to set up and establish communications wherever you are. This means you don’t need to deal with excess baggage or struggle with equipment when you want to focus on the action unfolding right in front of you.  

3. Optimal energy efficiency

While TWTs can be power-intensive, GaN devices are more energy efficient, requiring a lower power input and generating less heat.  

This is ideal when you’re on-the-go and power may be limited. Switch to a GaN device and you could therefore minimise your impact on the environment, reduce operational costs and make it easier to get connected.  

4. Enhanced signal quality

With cleaner amplification, minimal signal distortion and better signal quality (even in bad weather conditions or across long distances), GaN devices allow you to broadcast the news or stream live in high quality with minimal interference or downtime. This contrasts with TWTs which can sometimes experience all the above.  

5. Faster deployment and operation

With instant setup, minimal installation and optimal mobility, GaN devices allow you to swiftly respond to an event and establish reliable communication links without the stress, hassle or long warm-up times required by TWTs. This means you can cover the action as it happens and get ahead of your competitors without needing to waste time.  

6. Short and long-term cost efficiency

Although TWTs have been used for decades, their high initial costs, reduced reliability and ongoing maintenance costs can make them an expensive investment and out of reach for many satellite broadcasters.  

This isn’t the case with GaN devices. Their durability, reduced maintenance costs and reduced downtime mean the long-term cost of ownership is much less. 

7. Future-proofing for continued performance

Investing in GaN devices for SSPA means that you’ll stay at the cutting edge of technology and can easily adapt according to the needs of your organisation or the demands of the industry.  

 TWT devices on the other hand are challenging to maintain and quickly becoming outdated. Adopt GaN technologies and you’ll ensure your systems remain relevant, effective and perform optimally over the long term.  

Summary 

If you want a compact, lightweight, energy-efficient solution for digital satellite news gathering (DSNG), GaNs are the perfect option.  

Cost-effective, easy to deploy and easily upgradable or adjustable, they can help you stay agile and transmit your high-quality broadcast, wherever in the world you are without missing a second.  

 Milexia can help you discover the advantages of GaN technologies for DSNG. 

Contact us today to find out how.