FPA-18

The Frankonia FPA-18 is a low-noise, low-power wideband preamplifier with a nominal frequency range of 1 GHz to 18 GHz and a usable range of 500 MHz to 20 GHz, designed to improve system sensitivity during field strength measurements and general attenuation characterization up to 18 GHz. With a typical gain of 33 dB (±2.5 dB), a minimum gain of 28 dB, and a noise figure of 2 dB, it is optimised for placement directly at the antenna — minimising cable attenuation losses before the signal reaches the receiver.

Key specifications include a maximum input power of -10 dBm (97 dBµV), a typical SWR of less than 2, and a 50 Ω N-type output connector with an SMA female input. The housing features 22 mm holes to accept the standard mounting tube used across the Frankonia antenna range, allowing the amplifier to be mounted directly to the antenna mast with the N-female output facing downward — keeping coaxial cable routing clean and avoiding undesired bending. The compact aluminum enclosure measures 142 × 90 × 48 mm and weighs 600 g.

A 0.5 m coaxial cable with N-male and SMA-male connectors is supplied for connecting the antenna to the amplifier input. Power is supplied via 4 mm banana sockets at 12–15 VDC / 250–300 mA, compatible with an optional AC/DC adaptor, laboratory power supply, or rechargeable battery. As with all microwave preamplifiers, input and output are sensitive to electrostatic discharge — coaxial cables and personnel should be discharged before making connections.