If you work with audio systems or radio frequency applications, then you may need plenty of power amplifiers for your business. Power amplifiers come in handy for transferring alternating current, or AC current, to any electrical or wireless device. Some familiar examples include power amps that help to deliver signals to a cell phone or to satellites, and stereo power amps that help drive sound from a loudspeaker or a microphone.

Power amplifier manufacturers produce several types of these devices, and they are usually sold as RF power amplifiers for radio transmissions. Metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors, or MOSFET power amps, apply to higher frequency devices such as appliances. Power acoustic amplifiers boost the quality of audio transmissions, such as with two-way telecommunication. Other types include microwave and high power amplifiers. When it comes to specifications, consider the size or the model, high input and high frequency. Additional factors include low noise stereo power amps, which reduce interference or weak signals, and bandwidth and broadband capabilities.

1. Identify the types of power amplifiers that you will need to do business.

2. Buy stereo power amps and other power amplifiers based on qualifying specifications.

3. Search the inventory of certified power amplifier sellers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Pick the power amplifiers you will need to perform specific applications

Find broadband power amplifiers, radio frequency power amplifiers, high-voltage power amps and others, whether it's for aerospace, electronics, telecommunications or semiconductor applications.

I recommend: Power amplifier manufacturer T & C Power Conversions produces custom equipment for MRI, ultrasonic, broadcast communications and other applications. Power amplifier suppliers Cap Wireless distributes power amp systems for mobile radio and other telecommunications, as well as medical, scientific and security applications.

Research the specifications of power amplifiers

Most sellers of power amps provide products that operate under various temperatures, perform at maximum frequency rates, voltage capacity and output levels.

I recommend: Power amplifier distributors such as MS Kennedy offer products that operate with a maximum output of 180 volts. PI (Physik Instrumente) manufactures high-voltage power amplifiers that range from 500 to 2,000 watts.

Select power amplifiers from certified manufacturers and distributors

Ensure quality equipment by buying power amplifiers and related supplies from certified power amplifier distributors and manufacturers. The Aerospace Quality standard, or AS, and the International Organization for Standardization, or ISO, are the common certifications.

I recommend: ISO-certified manufacturer LDS Test and Measurement offers linear and energy efficient digital switching power amplifiers. AS-certified Lucix distributes low-noise power amplifiers for military, space and commercial projects.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The most common power amp system, the RF, should be equipped to easily plug into an electrical outlet. Available sizes of RF power amplifiers include 3.5 inches for smaller-scale applications, 5.25 inches, 7 inches and 8.75 inches for complex applications.