Simple antenna amplifier

The more I understand the modern element base, the more I am amazed at how easy it is now to make electronic devices that previously could only be dreamed of. For example, the antenna amplifier in question has an operating frequency range from 50 MHz to 4000 MHz. Yes, almost 4 GHz! In the days of my youth, one could simply dream of such an amplifier, but now even a novice radio amateur can assemble such an amplifier on one tiny microcircuit. Moreover, he has no experience working with ultra-high-frequency circuitry.
The antenna amplifier presented below is extremely simple to manufacture. It has good gain, low noise and low current consumption. Plus a very wide range of work. Yes, it is also miniature in size, thanks to which it can be embedded anywhere.

Where can I use a universal antenna amplifier?


Yes, almost anywhere in the wide range of 50 MHz - 4000 MHz.
  • - As a TV antenna signal amplifier for receiving both digital and analogue channels.
  • - As an antenna amplifier for an FM receiver.
  • - etc.

This applies to domestic use, but in the amateur radio field there are much more applications.

Antenna amplifier characteristics


  • Operating range: 50 MHz – 4000 MHz.
  • Gain: 22.8 dB - 144 MHz, 20.5 dB - 432 MHz, 12.1 dB - 1296 MHz.
  • Noise figure: 0.6 dB - 144 MHz, 0.65 dB - 432 MHz, 0.8 dB - 1296 MHz.
  • Current consumption is about 25 mA.

More detailed specifications can be found in Datasheet SPF5043Z.
The low noise amplifier has proven itself to be excellent. The low current consumption is fully justified.
The microcircuit also perfectly withstands high-frequency overloads without loss of characteristics.

Making an antenna amplifier


Scheme


Simple universal antenna amplifier

The circuit uses an RFMD SPF5043Z microcircuit, which can be purchased at - AliExpress.
In fact, the entire circuit is an amplifier microcircuit and a filter for its power supply.

Amplifier board


Simple universal antenna amplifier

The board can be made from foil PCB, even without etching, as I did.
We take two-sided foil-coated PCB and cut out a rectangle measuring approximately 15x20 mm.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

Then, using a permanent marker, draw the layout along the ruler.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

Simple universal antenna amplifier

And then you want to etch, or you want to cut out the tracks mechanically.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

Next, we tin everything with a soldering iron and solder SMD elements of size 0603. We close the bottom side of the foil board to a common wire, thereby shielding the substrate.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

Simple universal antenna amplifier

Setup and testing


No adjustment is required; you can, of course, measure the input voltage, which should be within 3.3 V and the current consumption is approximately 25 mA. Also, if you operate in the range above 1 GHz, you may need to match the input circuit by reducing the capacitor to 9 pF.
We connect the board to the antenna. The test showed good gain and low noise level.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

It will be very good if you place the board in a shielded case, like this.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

A board of a ready-made amplifier can be purchased at AliExpress, but it costs several times more than the microcircuit separately. So it’s better to get confused, it seems to me.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

Schema addition


To power the circuit, a voltage of 3.3 V is required. This is not entirely convenient, for example, if you use the amplifier in a car with an on-board voltage of 12 V.
Simple universal antenna amplifier

For these purposes, you can introduce a stabilizer into the circuit.

Connecting the amplifier to the antenna


In terms of location, the amplifier should be located in close proximity to the antenna.
To protect against static and thunderstorms, it is desirable that the antenna be DC-switched, that is, you need to use a loop or frame vibrator. Antenna type "Biquadrat"would be a great option.

Watch a video testing a simple antenna amplifier


come back
Comment
  • bowtiesmilelaughingblushsmileyrelaxed relaxedsmirk
    heart_eyeskissing_heartkissing_closed_eyesflushedrelievedsatisfiedgrin
    winkstuck_out_tongue_winking_eyestuck_out_tongue_closed_eyesgrinningkissingstuck_out_tonguesleeping
    worriedfrowninganguishedopen_mouthgrimacingconfusedhushed
    expressionlessunamusedsweat_smilesweatdisappointed_relievedwearypassive
    disappointedconfoundedfearfulcold_sweatperseverecrysob
    joyastonishedscreamtired_faceangryragetriumph
    sleepyyummasksunglassesdizzy_faceimpsmiling_imp
    neutral_faceno_mouthinnocent
5+two=
Comments (9)
  1. Guest Fedor
    #1 Guest Fedor Guests 11 January 2018 16:31
    5
    Are round Chinese amps worse?
  2. Basil
    #2 Basil Guests 23 January 2018 14:56
    3
    Good afternoon. Tell me if it is possible to install a 220 nH choke instead of 200 nH. Thank you
  3. Guest Dmitry
    #3 Guest Dmitry Guests December 17, 2018 11:49
    5
    Hello. Tell me, I have power and a useful signal going through a cacoxy cable, what changes should I make in the circuit to separate the power and the useful signal?
  4. Guest Mikhail
    #4 Guest Mikhail Guests 12 February 2019 11:27
    2
    By the way, guys!! It is this version that is used in microphone radio systems - it is filled with a black compound (supposedly a secret patent) - and it costs quite a lot - not less than 200 bucks!!! How!!!!
  5. Guest Alex
    #5 Guest Alex Guests February 18, 2019 00:54
    9
    This MS can be powered by e.g. up to 5.5 V. Therefore, if it is used for DVB T2 (there is a 5 V power supply), the output of the set-top box can be connected directly to the first pin without a filter. Reduce the input capacitor to 100 pF. In this case, the entire amplifier will consist of two SMD parts!
  6. Guest Mikhail
    #6 Guest Mikhail Guests 2 April 2019 12:41
    8
    “Even a novice radio amateur can assemble such an amplifier on one tiny chip.”
    Even a beginner? On smd? Oh well..
  7. samand587
    #7 samand587 Guests 12 March 2022 18:48
    4
    It's the other way around! When you connect an amplifier, the noise increases and reception deteriorates. What's the question?
  8. Nestor
    #8 Nestor Guests December 15, 2022 04:23
    4
    Is it possible to adapt a purchased television amplifier for reception in the HF range of 1-30 MHz?
  9. Guest Alexander
    #9 Guest Alexander Guests September 24, 2023 09:58
    1
    Vasily, the task of the throttle is not to let such terrible megahertz pass through to the body. 220, 100, and 50 will do.