Product Overview
PL3100A Broadband Amplifier is a 1GHz bandwidth two-way amplifier. It is designed specifically for use in fiber deeper cable TV networks. PL3100A Broadband Amplifier has two high level RF outputs in only main portsoutput mode, that can be split into four low level outputs in main and aux ports output mode. PL3100A Broadband Amplifier has GaAs technology in use, that guarantees the highest CTB and CSO performance.
PL3100A Broadband Amplifier’s adjustments of output level and slope are made using standard JXP PADs to minimize spare parts. AC shunt power directors located near the ports. These power directors are used to direct AC current to/from the amplifier input and output ports. AC circuitry provides 10A of steady state current capability that is able to with stand 15A of peak current (maximum 2 hours at 60Cº).
PL3100A Broadband Amplifier can be field upgradable to an Optical Node.
Block Diagram

Specifications
Forward Path Characteristics
| Parameter | Unit | Value | Remark |
| Frequency Range | MHz | 54 ~ 1002 | Different split is available |
| Gain | dB | 42 | 2 ports Version |
| Gain | dB | 38.5 | 4 ports Version |
| Internal Tilt | dB | 12±1 | @1002MHz |
| Flatness | dB | ±0.75 | -40℃ ~ +60℃ |
| Gain Thermal Stability | dB | ±1.5 | Under -40℃ ~ +60℃, output level is maintained and flatness is ±0.75dB over this temperature range. |
| Output Return Loss | dB | ≥16 | |
| RF Connector | / | 5/8” or PG11 | Exchangeable |
| RF Output TP | dB | -20±1 (w/jmpr) | Relative to RF output port, TP is F-female type connector |
| dB | -16.5±1(w/spltr) | ||
| Test Point Flatness | dB | ±0.75 | 2 ports Version |
| dB | ±1 | 4 ports Version | |
| Test Point Return Loss | dB | ≥16 | |
| Isolation | dB | 40 | In band, loop isolation |
| dB | 20 | Out of band, loop isolation | |
| dB | 15 | Crossover band, loop isolation | |
| Distortion Test Condition: RF output | dBmV | 50 | 2 ports version |
| dBmV | 46.5 | 4 ports version | |
| Distortion Test Condition: Tilt | dB | 12±1 | @1002MHz, cable tilt. |
| CTB | dBc | 67 | 79NTSC |
| CSO | dBc | 65 | 79NTSC |
| Cross Modulation | dBc | 62 | 79NTSC |
| Noise Figure | dB | <9 | |
| HUM | dB | 65 | @10A |
Return Path Characteristics
| Parameter | Unit | Value | Remark |
| Frequency Range | MHz | 5 ~ 42 | Different split is available |
| Gain | dB | 23 | Without 3-state switch |
| Flatness Reverse | dB | ±0.75 | |
| Internal Reverse Tilt | dB | 0 | ±0.5dB |
| Noise Figure | £ 10dB | Without 3-state switch, 2 ports output. | |
| Input Test Point | dB | -20 (w/jumper) | Relative to RF input port, ±1dB margin,
TP is F-female type connector |
| dB | -23.5 (w/splitter) | ||
| TP Flatness | dB | ±1.0 | |
| Reverse Return Loss | dB | ≥16 | |
| HUM | dB | 65 | @10A, Using the Matrix method |
General Characteristics
| Parameter | Unit | Value | Remark |
| Working Temperature | ℃ | -40 ~ +60 | |
| Storage Temperature | ℃ | -40 ~ +85 | |
| Output Ports | / | 2 or 4 | with splitter |
| Surge | kV | ±6 | IEEE C62.41, 1.2/50uS Combination Wave |
| Forward Equalizers | / | Plug-in(with JXP ATT) | |
| Return Equalizers | / | Plug-in(with JXP ATT) | Will be built based on different frequency split |
| Thermal Compensation | / | Yes | Built on board and only for Amplifier over TEMP compensation |
| AC Input Voltage | VAC | 40 to 90 | Line Powered |
| Efficiency | % | >80 | |
| Power Consumption | W | ≤35 | With Return path module |
| Power Passing | A | 10 or 15 exchangeable | 15A or 20A for 2 Hours@60°C no degradation is required for 10A or 15A respectively. |
| Water & Dust Resistance | / | IP68 | |
| Housing Dimensions | mm | 333*208*136 | Strand outdoor housing |
| Packaging Carton | mm | 370*270*220 | |
| Weight | 6Kg |
Welcome to enquiry our PL3100A broadband Amplifier.
PL3100A: 1GHz High-Output Outdoor Broadband Amplifier (GaAs Tech)
A high-performance two-way amplifier designed for fiber-deep HFC networks, offering modular scalability and superior distortion performance.
- Advanced GaAs Gain Stages: The PL3100A broadband amplifier leverages Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) technology to deliver high output levels (up to 110dBµV) while maintaining ultra-low CTB and CSO distortion, essential for digital and analog mixed-channel loading.
- Scalable Port Architecture: Designed for flexibility, it operates as a high-level 2-output amplifier or can be split into a 4-output configuration. This allows network engineers to optimize signal distribution based on specific neighborhood density.
- High Upgradability: Unique modular internal design allows the PL3100A to be field-upgraded to an Optical Node, protecting your infrastructure investment as your network transitions from HFC to FTTH/Deep-Fiber.
- Power Handling: Features AC shunt power directors capable of 10A steady-state and 15A peak current, ensuring reliable operation in line-powered cable plants even during high-demand periods.
- Simplified Field Maintenance: Utilizes standard JXP-style plug-in PADs for attenuation and tilt adjustments, significantly reducing the variety of spare parts required for field technicians.
Technical FAQ: PL3100A Broadband Amplifier
Q1: How does the PL3100A handle extreme outdoor environments?
A: The PL3100A broadband amplifier is housed in an IP68-rated strand-mount enclosure. It includes built-in thermal compensation circuitry and ±6kV surge protection (IEEE C62.41), ensuring stable gain and hardware integrity from -40°C to +60°C.
Q2: Can the frequency split be customized for different regional standards?
A: Yes. While the standard forward path is 54-1002MHz and return path is 5-42MHz, the PL3100A can be built with different frequency splits to comply with various international CATV standards, ensuring seamless integration into any global HFC networks.
Q3: What is the benefit of the MGC (Manual Gain Control) mode?
A: MGC mode allows for precise manual balancing of the broadband amplifier during installation. By using plug-in attenuators, technicians can lock in the exact gain and slope required to compensate for cable loss, preventing over-driving of downstream equipment.
Transitioning to Fiber Deep?
If you are upgrading your HFC plant to an all-optical infrastructure, check our
1550nm WDM Optical Receivers
for the perfect head-end to home-end solution.
