The RF Energy Alliance (RFEA) released its initial solid-state RF energy (SSRFE) specification, the “RF Power Amplifier (PA) Roadmap: Residential Appliances.” The document marks the first time cross-value chain representatives have collectively defined and specified current and future SSRFE PA modules. Notably, the Roadmap demonstrates that PA modules can be cost competitive to current magnetron-based solutions within a decade. This establishes mass-market viability of what has been considered a cost-prohibitive and complex technology.
A clean, highly efficient and transformative heating and power technology, SSRFE is commonly understood as an alternate power source for magnetron-powered applications (e.g., microwave furnace). Spearheaded by Ampleon, E.G.O.-Group, Huber+Suhner, ITW, Rogers Corporation and Whirlpool R&D, the Roadmap sets parameters for five PA module generations targeting cooking applications. More than 40 characteristics are defined per module, ranging from operational lifetime requirements and environmental conditions over efficiency and size to RF output and interface standards.
This is a major step forward for the RF Energy Alliance - This Roadmap is the first agreed-upon approach to solid-state RF energy design across the industry. Based on this you will soon see elegantly-designed cooking appliances delivering exceptional culinary experiences with remarkable energy efficiency. The Alliance will continue to build on this foundation.
The RF PA Roadmap: Residential Appliances is available only to Alliance members. Companies and academia interested in joining can learn about RFEA membership at rfenergy.org /membership. The Roadmap’s companion document, the RFEA system architect’s guide, is slated for release in Q2’16.
