Narda-MITEQ Low Noise Amplifier Selection Guide
Narda-MITEQ Low Noise Amplifier Selection Guide
Narda-MITEQ offers a broad range of RF, microwave and millimeter-wave low noise amplifiers for radar, satellite communications, electronic test equipment, receiver systems, radio astronomy and cryogenic applications.
The company’s LNA portfolio covers frequencies from 1 kHz to 67 GHz and includes narrowband, wideband, ultra-low-noise, cryogenic, space-qualified, temperature-compensated and waveguide amplifier families.
Selecting the correct Narda-MITEQ low noise amplifier requires more than matching the operating frequency. Engineers must also consider noise figure, gain, gain flatness, output P1dB, VSWR, power consumption, operating temperature and mechanical interface.
This guide explains the main selection criteria and compares several representative Narda-MITEQ LNA models.
What Does a Low Noise Amplifier Do?
A low noise amplifier is normally installed near the front of an RF receiver. Its purpose is to amplify a weak incoming signal while adding as little noise as possible.
Because the first amplifier stage has a major influence on the overall receiver noise figure, selecting an unsuitable LNA can reduce sensitivity even when later stages provide sufficient gain.
Typical applications include:
Radar and electronic warfare receivers
Satellite communication terminals
Microwave communication systems
Test and measurement equipment
Antenna receiver front ends
Radio astronomy receivers
Medical and scientific instruments
Cryogenic and quantum measurement systems
Main Narda-MITEQ LNA Families
Standard LNA Series
The standard LNA family provides multiple combinations of frequency range, gain, noise figure and output power. These connectorized amplifiers are suitable for general microwave receiver, test and communications applications.
Typical models cover UHF, L, S, C, X, Ku, K and Ka-band frequency ranges.
Wideband Low Noise Amplifiers
Wideband LNAs are designed for systems that must cover several microwave bands with a single amplifier.
They can reduce the number of narrowband amplifier stages required in broadband receivers, electronic warfare systems and general-purpose test equipment. However, wide bandwidth often requires a compromise between noise figure, gain flatness and output power.
ULNA Ultra-Low-Noise Amplifiers
Narda-MITEQ ULNA models are intended for applications where lower noise contribution is more important than high output power.
These models are useful in sensitive microwave receivers, antenna systems, satellite communications and laboratory instrumentation.
CLNA Cryogenic Low Noise Amplifiers
CLNA amplifiers are engineered for operation at cryogenic temperatures. They are used in radio astronomy, low-temperature physics, quantum computing and other systems where conventional room-temperature LNA performance is insufficient.
When selecting a CLNA, engineers should check both the physical operating temperature and the specified noise temperature. These are two different parameters.
Specialized LNA Families
Narda-MITEQ also offers specialized amplifier families for:
Space and high-reliability systems
SATCOM receiver systems
Low-current applications
Higher-output-power receiver chains
Temperature-compensated applications
Waveguide interfaces
Custom frequency and environmental requirements
Representative Narda-MITEQ LNA Models
The following models illustrate several common selection directions. Final specifications should always be confirmed against the applicable manufacturer datasheet.
| Model | Frequency Range | Gain | Noise Figure | Output P1dB | Typical Selection Direction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LNA-20-04001200-35-20P | 4–12 GHz | 20 dB min. | 3.5 dB max. | 20 dBm min. | General C/X-band and wideband receiver systems |
| LNA-30-02001800-40-20P | 2–18 GHz | 30 dB min. | 4 dB max. | 20 dBm min. | Multi-octave broadband receivers and test systems |
| LNA-20-08001800-40-25P | 8–18 GHz | 20 dB min. | 4 dB max. | 25 dBm min. | X/Ku-band receivers requiring higher output capability |
| ULNA-30-0400-1200-10P | 4–12 GHz | 30 dB min. | 1.3 dB | 10 dBm | Sensitive microwave receivers prioritizing low noise |
| CLNA-25-0500-1000-5P-ND | 5–10 GHz | 25 dB min. | 0.147 dB max. | −5 dBm min. | Cryogenic receivers operating at approximately 4 K |
Frequently Asked Questions
What frequency range do Narda-MITEQ low noise amplifiers cover?
Narda-MITEQ states that its low noise amplifier portfolio covers frequencies from 1 kHz to 67 GHz. Actual coverage depends on the selected LNA family and individual model.
Should I select the amplifier with the lowest noise figure?
Not automatically. Noise figure should be evaluated together with gain, bandwidth, output P1dB, linearity, power consumption and cost. The best model is the one that meets the complete receiver budget.
What is the difference between LNA and ULNA models?
Standard LNA models provide a range of gain, noise and output-power combinations. ULNA models prioritize lower noise contribution for more sensitive receiver applications. Exact performance must be compared at the individual model level.
What is the difference between ULNA and CLNA amplifiers?
ULNA models are ultra-low-noise amplifiers, while CLNA models are specifically designed for cryogenic operation. A CLNA noise specification may apply only when the amplifier is cooled to a defined physical temperature, such as 4 K.
Can a 2–18 GHz LNA replace several narrowband amplifiers?
It can simplify system architecture when one amplifier must cover multiple bands. However, engineers should compare its noise figure, gain flatness, linearity and out-of-band response with the performance of narrower-band alternatives.
Does Narda-MITEQ offer customized low noise amplifiers?
Yes. Narda-MITEQ supports modifications and custom amplifier designs for specialized electrical, mechanical, testing and environmental requirements. Customization may affect minimum order quantity, qualification requirements and lead time.
Narda-MITEQ LNA Supply and Quotation
DataStorageIC supplies Narda-MITEQ low noise amplifiers for RF, microwave, SATCOM, radar, test and scientific applications.
Contact us with your required model number, quantity and target delivery date. If the exact part number has not yet been selected, provide the frequency range, gain, noise figure, output-power and environmental requirements for model matching.
