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A complete
range of distribution amplifiers are made by Precision
Test Systems. A distribution amplifier is used to
distribute the output of a frequency reference to many
different places. Usually the frequency is 5 or 10
MHz but we manufacture distribution amps from DC to over
2000 MHz.
DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIERS
Click Here for our Distribution Amplifier Comparison Chart
Key Features include (refer to brochures below, for exact
specifications):
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MTBF of over
500000 hours. Three year warranty on most
distribution amplifiers.
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Units available
in standard frequencies of 1 pps, 100 kHz, 5 MHz, 10 MHz,
15 MHz. Wideband models (1 MHz to 150 MHz) also
available.
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AGC controlled.
Output level remains constant even if input level
varies. Removes any AM noise from the input.
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Five to
thirty isolated outputs.
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Sinewave
or Squarewave Outputs.
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Independent adjustment of each output level on most
models.
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BNC, TNC
or SMA connectors available.
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Pure 10 MHz
output. Harmonics are -70 dBc (-25 dBc on some
models).
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Switchable
squarewave outputs from 10 MHz, 5 MHz, 2
MHz, 1 MHz, 100 kHz and 1 Hz (PTS50 and DA101010).
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Units can be
interconnected for up to > 1000 outputs.
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Very Low Phase
Noise.
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Option to have
any or all connectors isolated from earth.
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Alarm relay
output option.
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Backup internal
10 MHz option (not available on all models).
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2nd or
3rd input with automatic switchover.
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Redundancy Option
(not available on all models).
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Power Operates
from 100 - 240 VAC (usable 90 - 260 VAC) supply or optional external 12 V DC
supply.
What to look
for in a Frequency Distribution System.
The
important things to look for in a distribution amplifier
are:
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Gain. It's important that the
amplifier doesn't just have 0 dB gain, but rather a
figure of at least 5 dB. This allows the
output of the frequency reference to be increased to
the desired level. Also see AGC.
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AGC (automatic gain control). As
already mentioned, some gain is needed in an
amplifier. On top of this, some type of AGC
should be incorporated. An amplifier with AGC
has a fixed output level even if the input level
varies by a few dB. Amplifiers with 0 dB gain
will have fluctuating outputs should the input level
vary. This will have an impact on timing
issues.
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Variable output levels. Again,
amplifiers with 0 dB gain don't allow the output
levels to be individually optimized. Most of
our distribution amplifiers allow every output to be
set to a different output level. This is
important to optimize for different cable lengths
and for the different types of equipment to be
connected to the amplifier.
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Phase Noise. Phase noise is often
overlooked but is a very important parameter of a
frequency distribution system. Unless the
distribution amplifier has low phase noise it will
impair the quality of the frequency reference.
Our DA1-100-10 series have some of the lowest phase
noise specifications available in today's market.
Phase noise of < 130 dBc/Hz at a 1 Hz offset and
floor noise of -170 dBc is available from Precision
Test Systems on their high performance
amplifier range.
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Channel and Reverse Isolation. It's
important that the reference frequency standard
connected to the frequency distribution system is
protected against noise, shorts and poor VSWR's of
the equipment that may be connected to the system.
Channel isolation should be at least 40 dB for a
standard amplifier and 90 dB for a high performance
amplifier. Reverse isolation should be at
least 90 dB and ideally better than 125 dB to make
sure the reference is well protected.
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