Description
CPI VZC-6964A4 400W C-Band SATCOM TWT Amplifier CMPA 5.85-6.65 GHz For Parts
The CPI VZC-6964A4 is a compact medium power amplifier (CMPA) designed for C-Band satellite uplink service, covering the 5.850–6.650 GHz frequency band. Built by CPI's Satcom Division (formerly Varian MEP), it uses a dual-depressed collector helix traveling wave tube to deliver 400 watts of RF output power in a 3U rackmount chassis. The unit features microprocessor-controlled logic, a digital LED meter display, pin diode attenuation, and a 20-point fault detection matrix covering TWT, SSPA, DC bus, interlock, and arc fault conditions.
Specifications & What's Included
- Manufacturer: CPI (Communications & Power Industries), Satcom Division — formerly Varian MEP
- Model: VZC-6964A4
- Part Number: 01018590-02
- Output Power: 400W
- Frequency Band: C-Band, 5.850–6.650 GHz
- Amplifier Technology: Dual-depressed collector helix traveling wave tube (TWT)
- Form Factor: 3U rackmount
- Front Panel Meter: Digital LED display — selectable for RF Output (dBm), Helix Voltage (V), Helix Current (mA), Attenuator Setting (dB), Reflected RF (W)
- Front Panel Controls: LOCAL/REMOTE/CIF selector, HTD, TX SELECT, STANDBY, TRANSMIT buttons; RECYCLED FAULT and FAULT indicators
- Internal DIP Switch Arrays: S1 and S2 configuration banks accessible via front access door
- Fault Matrix: 20-point fault detection system (TWT Over Voltage, Under Voltage, Avg. Over Current, Helix Over Temp, High/Low RF Alarm, Interlock Open, TWT OT, SSPA Over Current, Helix V in Standby, BB-RAM Error, External Interlock, DC Bus Fault, Power Supply Arc Detected)
- Rear Interfaces: D-sub connectors (control/monitor), RF ports, IEC AC power inlet
- Cooling: Forced air — large rear-mounted fan
- Standards: EN60215
- Country of Manufacture: USA
- Condition: For Parts or Not Working — failed TWT/arc fault; see condition block below
Applications
The CPI VZC-6964A4 belongs to a class of C-Band compact medium power amplifiers used in fixed and transportable satellite earth station uplink systems. CMPAs of this type have historically been deployed where rack space and prime power consumption are constrained — including mobile satellite newsgathering vehicles, portable VSAT terminals, and smaller fixed earth stations operating in the 6 GHz C-Band uplink segment. The TWT-based design offers efficiency advantages over solid-state alternatives at this power level, and the integrated microprocessor control with remote CIF interface makes these units compatible with automated earth station monitoring and control systems. A unit with a failed TWT but an otherwise intact chassis, power supply, and control electronics can serve as a source of serviceable subassemblies, a platform for TWT replacement and refurbishment, or a reference unit for maintenance and training.
This CPI VZC-6964A4 400W C-Band SATCOM TWT Amplifier is being sold AS-IS for parts or repair due to a failed traveling wave tube (TWT). Additional labeling on the unit — visible in our photos — confirms an arc fault condition and notes that the TWT requires replacement. A separate warning label affixed by Panatron, Inc. (ref# 5255-02) advises that the unit should not be plugged in as-is. While the chassis powers on, the fan spins, and the OED self-test completes with no error lights, the unit cannot transmit RF output due to the failed TWT. It is sold strictly in its current as-is condition with no warranty of RF functionality. The unit carries EN60215 certification and was manufactured in the USA. Please view our full photo set carefully and contact us if you have any questions before purchasing.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
CPI (Communications & Power Industries) |
Model: |
VZC-6964A4 |
MPN: |
01018590-02 |
Type: |
C-Band Compact Medium Power TWT Amplifier (CMPA) |
SKU: |
52286 |
Condition: |
As-Is / For Parts or Not Working |
Seller Notes: |
Sold as-is for parts or repair due to failed traveling wave tube (TWT). |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Form Factor: |
Rackmount, 3U |
Frequency Band: |
C-Band, 5.850–6.650 GHz |
Output Power: |
400W |
Amplifier Technology: |
Traveling Wave Tube (TWT) — Dual-Depressed Collector Helix |
Application: |
SATCOM Earth Station, Satellite Uplink |
Control Interface: |
Microprocessor-controlled; local/remote CIF |
Standards Compliance: |
EN60215 |
Metering: |
Digital LED — RF Output, Helix V, Helix I, Attenuator, Reflected RF |
Fault Indicators: |
20-point fault matrix — TWT, SSPA, DC Bus, Interlock, Arc faults |
Formerly / Also Known As: |
Varian (formerly Varian MEP / Satcom Division) |
Fault Status: |
TWT tube failed / TWT Arc Fault noted on unit label |
Compatible With: |
Fixed and transportable C-Band earth station systems |
Condition Notes: |
CPI VZC-6964A4 400W C-Band TWT Amplifier sold AS-IS for parts/repair. Failed TWT (arc fault confirmed on unit label). Chassis powers on, fan runs, OED self-test passes — no RF output. Do not plug in per Panatron warning label. |
