Orbital Ka-Band Modified Series LNBs
Orbital Low Noise Block Downconverters
Ka-Band Dual Output LNB
Simultaneous reception of 18.5 to 19.2GHz and 19.2 to 20.2GHz
The Problem
New Ka satellites, like AMC 15 and AMC 16, have operating bandwidths much wider (1.7 GHz) than any receiver or modem can handle. To receive all the signals, two dishes and two LNBs would be required. For flyaway terminals, this is very expensive. To put two LNBs on one dish would require a waveguide splitter, and a noise penalty of 3.5 dB, or a waveguide switch allowing only one LNB at a time, or physically changing LNBs each time you want to view the other band. Clearly, none of these options provide quality, performance, convenience, or cost effectiveness.
The Solution
Orbital Research, with its decades of experience in microwave conversion, has designed and built a dual band Ka LNB with a single WR-42 waveguide input, and dual L band conventional outputs. One LNB with two outputs in a single enclosure now solves all of the problems above.
Orbital Quality
To perform well, Ka LNBs must have exceptional performance specifications, especially phase noise. Using state of the art thick film hybrids, Orbital has built very low phase noise stable DROs for the dual oscillators. The RF, mixer, and IF amplifier circuits are physically and electrically independent. Because the LO frequencies of the LNBs are such strong signals, and would swamp the input stages of proximal LNBs, only one LNB can operate at a time. To switch between LNBs, simply use the DC power of each LNB to turn them on and off.
For full band access (both LNBs on at the same time), you would need to use an LNA / BDC combination.
Orbital Features
- One waveguide input, low noise conversion to two outputs
- Low phase noise, high quality Dual DROs
- Dual DC power via both output connectors
- Choice of output connectors and impedance
- Excellent dynamic range and reliability
Custom Engineering
- Begin with the low noise figure of a proven quality LNB
- Engineer and integrate new high performance DROs
- Engineer dual RF, Mixer and IF modules into one LNB
- Optimize Input and Output for superior VSWR
- Modify and tune RF & IF filters for optimum response
- Tune for very low bandpass ripple
- Optimize Gain distribution for your system parameters
- Temperature compensated gain
Environmental
- O ring sealed connectors for weather resistant operation
- O ring sealed, custom milled housing,
- Allodyne finish to MIL SPEC C-5541 Cat 3.
Options
- Special Dual DC option via each output coax
- Available in 50 or 75 ohm out in F, SMA, or N connectors
- Available in 50 and 55dB gain
- Custom IF amps capable of +17 dBm IP3
- Full test documentation available
- Custom design and labeling requirements welcomed
Loss of Lock Alarm – LOLA (optional)
LNBs can lose oscillator lock from internal failure or loss of the 10 MHz reference. The LOLA detects this anomaly and increases the current consumption of the LNB over the IFL cable to trigger a redundant switch or other detector. No extra ports, cables or infrastructure are required.
Simply hookup the LNB with 10 MHz present, set the current windows on the redundancy system so they are just out of triggering, then turn off the 10 MHz to trigger the LNB LOL circuit. The redundant switch should activate. Restore 10 MHz and the LOLA will reset.
It should be noted that these LNBs are exceptionally good for 10 MHz lock range. They will stay locked under adverse 10 MHz conditions and keep the system in sync.
Orbital Dual Output Ka Band LNB Specifications
Click to download specs & mechanical PDF
| Electrical Specifications | |
| Input | |
| Frequency: | 18.5 to 19.2 GHz and |
| 19.2 to 20.2 GHz | |
| Bandwidth: | 700MHz and 1,000 MHz |
| Input Stability: | Unconditionally stable |
| (no oscillation) for all possible input loads | |
| Input VSWR: | 2.5 : 1 nominal |
| Noise Figure: | 1.8 dB maximum @ 23°C |
| Output | |
| Bandpass: | Output 1: 1250 to 1950 MHz |
| Output 2: 950 to 1950 MHz | |
| Output VSWR: | 2.1 : 1 maximum @ 75W |
| Output Stability: | Unconditionally stable |
| (no oscillation) for all possible input loads | |
| 3rd Order Intercept: | |
| +13 dBm minimum, | |
| up to +17 dBm (optional) | |
| Local Oscillator | |
| Frequency: | LNB 1: 17.25 GHz |
| LNB 2: 18.25 GHz | |
| Stability: | ±750 kHz |
| Leakage: | -45 dBm maximum @ IF output & input |
| Phase Noise: | -90 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz |
| -115 dBc/Hz @ 100 kHz | |
| -140 dBc/Hz @ 1 MHz | |
| Gain | |
| Nominal Gain: | 55 dB nominal |
| Gain Variation over Temperature & Frequency: | |
| ±2.0 dB maximum | |
| Gain Ripple: | 1 dB p-p maximum over any |
| 33 MHz segment | |
| 1 dB Compression Point: | |
| +3 dBm minimum, | |
| up to +7 dBm (optional) | |
| Power | |
| DC Input: | 12 to 15 VDC, 450 mA maximum (estimation) over one cable for both LNBs |
| Filtering: | Transient, over and reverse voltage protected |
| Mechanical Specifications | |
| Size: | 45 x 51 x 115 mm |
| (with F connector) | |
| Weight: | 350 grams |
| Paint: | Allodyne finish to MIL SPEC C-5541 Cat 3 |
| Environmental Specifications | |
| Operating Temp: | -35 to +55°C |
| Relative Humidity: | Up to 100% condensation and frost |


Here's a few LNB solutions, for adding additional services, or perhaps you have just purchased a new LNB with external DC or dual DC. There are a few external reference examples as well. |
How to order an Orbital 1725X/1825X Series Dual Output Ka-band LNB
For pricing options please call 1-604-856-0305 or contact us.






