Amplifier Research 150W1000M3

The Amplifier Research 150W1000M3 is a solid-state, broadband RF amplifier delivering 150 W CW across 80 MHz to 1000 MHz. Built on push-pull circuitry, this unit combines high gain, linearity, and instantaneous bandwidth with reliable performance in demanding test and communication environments. The amplifier accepts 1 mW input and achieves minimum 52 dB gain with ±1.5 dB flatness across the band.

Internal or external automatic level control (ALC) enables precise output management, while mismatch tolerance ensures safe operation under any source and load impedance conditions, limiting reflected power to 100 W. Harmonic distortion measures −20 dBc at 100 W, with spurious content at −73 dBc and third-order intercept at 58 dBm. Modulation fidelity extends to AM, FM, and pulse formats.

The unit operates from 90–135 / 180–270 VAC autoranging input and consumes maximum 650 W. A comprehensive control interface includes an integral digital panel with power/gain display, forward and reflected power metering, and GPIB, RS-232, fiber-optic, USB, and Ethernet remote control. The 19.8 × 8.1 × 29.5 inch benchtop enclosure integrates into rack systems via the 4U, 19-inch variant configuration.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 80 MHz to 1000 MHz


• Power Output: 150 W CW minimum; 120 W nominal at 1 dB compression; 140 W nominal at 3 dB compression; 130 W saturated (PSAT)


• Gain: 52 dB minimum (maximum setting); 53 dB minimum (small signal); 20 dB adjustment range (front panel control)


• Flatness: ±1.5 dB minimum


• Input Impedance: 50 Ω, 1.5:1 VSWR maximum


• Output Impedance: 50 Ω, 2.5:1 VSWR maximum


• Harmonic Distortion: −20 dBc (H2, H3) at 100 W


• Spurious: −73 dBc


• Third-Order Intercept (IP3): 58 dBm


• Noise Figure: 8 dB maximum


• Input for Rated Output: 1 mW / 0 dBm


• Power Consumption: 650 W maximum


• Primary Power: 90–135 / 180–270 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz, single phase, autoranging

Key Features

• Modulation fidelity for AM, FM, and pulse waveforms


• Internal/external ALC with threshold control


• Mismatch tolerance - unlimited source/load impedance without damage or oscillation; 100 W reflected power limit


• Air-cooled operation


• Digital control panel with forward and reflected power display

Remote Control & Integration

• GPIB / IEEE-488


• RS-232


• Fiber-optic serial (ST connector)


• USB


• Ethernet


• Safety interlock connector (rear panel)

Typical Applications

• EMC testing


• Laboratory RF systems


• Communication system validation