Ka-Band & Ku-Band Systems: Basics & RF Design Considerations

What's the difference between Ka-band and Ku-band systems? In this article, we explore what they are,  what sets them apart, the advantages of each, and the design considerations you should keep in mind. 

What Is the Ka-Band System?

The Ka-band includes the frequencies of 26.5-40GHz. The Ka-band is part of the K band of the microwave band of the electromagnetic spectrum. The symbol "Ka" stands for "K-above," meaning the band directly above the K-band. You can learn more about Ka-band systems here.

Many RF designers are choosing Ka-band systems because of its increasing capacity availability. 

What Is the Ku-Band System?

The Ku-band includes the frequencies of 12-18 GHz.  The symbol "Ku" stands for "K-under" or the band directly below the K band. You can learn more about Ku-band systems here.

Ka/Ku-Band Architecture Characteristics

• Phase noise is introduced by frequency local oscillators.
• Each amplifier generates a self-noise.
• Up to three successive frequency conversions could be performed from base-band to carrier frequency.
• The Ka/Ku frequencies and noise performance of RF components become critically important for closing the link.

What's the Difference Between Ka-Band and Ku-Band Systems? 

Advantages of Ka-Band Systems

• Less congestion than other systems.
• Highly efficient.
• Lower bandwidth cost.
• Enables high bandwidth data throughput.
• Small Ka-band antenna.
• Delivers high-speed services to customers beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
• Higher download and upload speeds.

Advantages of Ku-Band Systems

• Short wavelengths = highly focused and powerful signal.
• Excellent in delivering spot beam coverage from the satellite.
• Less expensive equipment than most bands, such as the C-band.
• Attractive to small networks.
• Dependable and efficient.
• Power of uplinks and downlinks can be increased.

Design Considerations for Ka-Band & Ku-Band Systems

If you are designing a Ka-band or Ku-band system, then finding RF components with low noise (especially the local oscillator) is probably at the top of your list, as it should be.

The relatively high bandwidth of Ka-band and Ku-band systems allow them to transmit data, video, voice, etc. at a silky smooth rate. If the phase noise of the local oscillator is too high, these transmissions will become noisy and will fail. Selecting a low phase noise oscillator is critically important.

Finding the Right Oscillator for Your Next Project

We hope this article has helped you gain a better understanding of Ka-band and Ku-band systems, and the design considerations you need to keep in mind for them. 

Need an oscillator for your next project?  Browse our high-performance crystal oscillators or reach out to our engineers with your questions. 

Want to learn more about the effects of phase noise for various applications?  Download our FREE Visual Guide.