BBV 9744 B, 9 kHz - 8 GHz, 28dB Gain, Broadband Preamplifier

Overview
The BBV 9744 B is a high-performance broadband preamplifier designed for EMC and RF measurement applications requiring high sensitivity and wide frequency coverage. With low noise and high gain, it is ideal for use in systems measuring very low signal levels, particularly when connected directly to antennas.

Key Features

Broad Frequency Coverage: It operates from 9 kHz up to 8 GHz.
High Gain: Typical gain of 29 dB up to 6 GHz and 27 dB from 6 to 8 GHz.
Excellent Noise Performance: Low noise figure of < 2.7 dB @ 1 GHz.
Compact and Rugged Design: Lightweight aluminum housing with small footprint.
Integrated Protection: ESD-protected input and internal circuitry for controlled power ramping.

Specifications:
Frequency range (nominal):	9 kHz – 6 GHz / 6-8GHz
Gain	typ. 29dB / typ. 27dB
Noise figure:	typ.< 2.7 dB @ 1.0 GHz
Amplitude flatness:	< +/- 1.5 dB / <+/- 2.5dB
1 dB compression point at input:	> - 15 dBm
Impedance:	50 Ohm
VSWR input / output:	< 2 : 1
Ambient temperature:	-10° … +60°C
Power supply:	+ 10-15 V
Current consumption:	< 120 mA
The material of the housing:	Aluminum
Housing dimensions:	42 x 28 x 39 mm
Overall dimensions:	85 x 36 x 29 mm
Weight:	130 g

A power supply is required. PS 120/12 can be used.

The BBV 9744 B is a general-purpose broadband preamplifier with high gain and low internal noise. Because of the high gain and the good noise figure, the system noise is nearly independent of the other components, including the cable and receiver. These features make the BBV 9744 B very useful for measuring very low limits. In this case, it will be connected directly to the antenna. The amplifier has 2 stages. The first stage uses an ESD–protected MMIC to prevent defects caused by unintentional electrostatic discharge. Nevertheless, preamplifiers are generally ESD-sensitive devices, therefore it is very important to discharge coaxial cables before being connected. This precaution is essential to protect the extremely small semiconductor structures operating in the microwave frequency range.

It must be noted that preamplifiers are generally not recommended for measuring impulsive signals. Such broadband noise is typical for many EMC measurements, so any broadband preamplifier is not suitable for measuring the EMC of a broadband pulse spectrum.

The BBV 9744 B has an aluminum enclosure and uses N-type flange connectors. The power supply is very simple because of the built-in voltage regulator. A standard wall plug supply with +12 V DC can be used. An internal protection circuit slows down the rising and falling of the power supply voltage to prevent internal components and the receiver from being damaged by voltage spikes. 12-V auxiliary supplies from receivers and analyzers or batteries are also suitable if they can provide a constant current of 0.12 A. Switching power supplies should be avoided.

The main differences from the previous version are that the frequency range has been extended to 8 GHz, input stage protection has been improved, a more reliable power supply connection has been added, and dimensions and weight have been reduced.

Application Notes

Ideal for low-level signal measurements and pre-compliance EMC testing.
Not recommended for broadband impulsive noise measurements due to large-signal limitations.
It should be connected directly to the antenna to maximize system sensitivity.
Always discharge coaxial cables before connecting to prevent ESD damage.