Thermal considerations in high power microwave amplifiers design

Abstract

The paper describes major thermal issues designers come across while designing high power solid state amplifiers for satellite applications. Various methods to minimize heat and temperature rise will be presented which consequently increases the efficiency of any high power amplifier. The choice of components, materials, layout and fixation techniques will also be highlighted in detail. Different design considerations for heat sinks and use of thermal conductors in designing of high power amplifiers will also be included in the presented work.