Amplifier Research 800A3A

The Amplifier Research 800A3A is a solid-state, broadband RF amplifier engineered for laboratory and test environments requiring instantaneous bandwidth across 10 kHz to 3 MHz. This self-contained, air-cooled unit delivers 800 watts minimum continuous-wave power with exceptional gain and flatness, making it ideal for EMC testing, communication systems validation, and scientific research applications.

Technical Specifications

Frequency & Power Performance

• Frequency range: 10 kHz – 3 MHz (instantaneous)


• Rated power output: 800 W minimum (CW)


• Power @ 3 dB compression: 800 W nominal / 700 W minimum (10 kHz–2 MHz), 600 W minimum (2 MHz–3 MHz)


• Power @ 1 dB compression: 500 W nominal / 400 W minimum


• Input for rated output: 1.0 mW maximum Gain & Impedance


• Minimum gain: 60 dB


• Gain adjustment range: 23 dB minimum (continuous)


• Input impedance: 50 Ω


• Output impedance: 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, 400 Ω nominal (switch-selectable, manual)


• Flatness: ±1.0 dB maximum Robustness


• Mismatch tolerance: Operates without damage at any load impedance phase and magnitude; handles 100% rated power without foldback up to 6.0:1 mismatch; limits to 400 W reflected power above 6.0:1


• Modulation: Faithfully reproduces AM, FM, and pulse modulation Physical & Electrical


• Dimensions: 50.3 × 34.0 × 55.1 cm (19.8 × 13.4 × 21.7 in)


• Weight: 36.4 kg (80 lb)


• Primary power: 85–137 / 180–300 VAC, 43–63 Hz, 2500 W maximum

Key Features

• Digital Control Panel (DCP) with local and remote operation via IEEE-488, RS-232, and USB


• Real-time display of forward power, reflected power, control status, and amplifier status


• Continuously variable gain control


• RF output level protection


• Hot-switchable output impedance matching


• Keylock for operation mode selection


• Type N female RF connectors (input and output, front panel)


• Configurable as sub-amplifier for higher-power systems (1500 W or 5000 W)

Typical Applications

• EMC and EMI testing


• Communication system characterization


• Scientific research requiring wideband RF amplification


• Laboratory RF testing with variable load impedance

Compatibility & Integration The 800A3A operates as a standalone amplifier for RF testing and can be integrated as a sub-amplifier within higher-power Amplifier Research systems.