Thermally optimized power amplifiers dramatically boost range and broadband coverage.

About this Video

• Video Title: Thermally optimized power amplifiers dramatically boost range and broadband coverage.
• Channel: U.S. National Science Foundation
• Speakers: Austin Hickman
• Duration: 00:02:39

Introduction

This video showcases Austin Hickman, co-founder and CEO of Saka Socker, discussing how NSF funding helped his company develop thermally optimized power amplifiers. These amplifiers improve the efficiency and range of communication systems operating at higher frequencies, addressing challenges related to signal attenuation and component efficiency.

Key Takeaways

• Improved Communication System Efficiency: Higher frequencies in communication systems lead to decreased efficiency and range. Saka Socker's power amplifiers address this.
• NSF Funding's Crucial Role: The NSF's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, specifically phases 1 and 2, provided crucial funding for Saka Socker's research, development, and transition from academic lab to commercial product.
• Addressing Thermal Challenges: The core problem addressed by Saka Socker's technology is the thermal limitations of existing power amplifiers in defense radar and 5G telecommunications.
• Proof of Concept & Scaling: The NSF funding enabled the first proof of concept and scaling of the technology, taking it from initial research to a working product.
• Success Story: The video highlights a successful transition of a technology from an academic setting to a functioning product in the market, enabled by NSF funding.