Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB)

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB)

Definition

A Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB) is a critical component in satellite communication systems, typically mounted on satellite dishes. It receives weak microwave signals from satellites, amplifies them with minimal added noise, and converts them to lower frequencies (typically L-band) for transmission through coaxial cables to satellite receivers inside buildings. The LNB is part of the outdoor unit of a satellite reception system and is designed for continuous outdoor operation, with weatherproofing rated IP54 to IP67 per IEC 60529. It operates over a wide temperature range, from -40°C to 60°C, and can be stored from -40°C to 80°C. The device is powered via the coaxial cable with a supply voltage of 11–20 V DC and consumes 150–250 mA. It features an input frequency range covering Ku-band (10.7–12.75 GHz) and C-band (3.4–4.2 GHz) downlinks, and outputs intermediate frequencies in the 950–2150 MHz range. Key performance parameters include a noise figure of 0.1–0.5 dB, conversion gain of 50–60 dB, and input/output VSWR of ≤2.5:1 and ≤2.0:1, respectively. The local oscillator frequency is selectable at 9.75 or 10.6 GHz. The LNB uses an F-type connector for output. Typical materials include an aluminum housing, printed circuit board, semiconductor components such as GaAs FETs/HEMTs, dielectric materials, and copper conductors. The weight ranges from 100–300 g. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.

Working Principle

The LNB receives high-frequency satellite signals (e.g., Ku-band: 10.7-12.75 GHz, C-band: 3.4-4.2 GHz) via the feedhorn. It amplifies these weak signals using a low-noise amplifier (LNA) to minimize signal degradation. Then, a local oscillator (LO) generates a fixed frequency that mixes with the incoming signal in a mixer, producing intermediate frequencies (IF) in the 950-2150 MHz range. These lower-frequency signals are then transmitted through coaxial cable to the indoor receiver.

Common Materials

Aluminum housing, Printed circuit board (PCB), Semiconductor components (GaAs FETs/HEMTs), Dielectric materials, Copper conductors

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Input Frequency Range	10.7–12.75 GHz	Covers Ku-band satellite downlink.
Output Frequency Range	950–2150 MHz	Standard IF for satellite receivers.
Noise Figure	0.1–0.5 dB	Lower is better for weak signals.
Conversion Gain	50–60 dB	Ensures sufficient signal level.
Local Oscillator Frequency	9.75 or 10.6 GHz	Selectable for different bands.
Input VSWR	≤2.5:1	Max reflection at input.
Output VSWR	≤2.0:1	Max reflection at output.
Supply Voltage	11–20 V DC	Powered via coaxial cable.
Current Consumption	150–250 mA	Typical for LNB operation.
Operating Temperature	-40–60 °C	Outdoor installation range.
Storage Temperature	-40–80 °C	Non-operating survival range.
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP67	Weatherproof for outdoor use.IEC 60529
Connector Type	F-type	Standard for satellite IF.
Weight	100–300 g	Lightweight for mounting.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Feedhorn
Collects and focuses satellite signals into the waveguide

Material: Aluminum or plastic
Waveguide
Transmits microwave signals from feedhorn to PCB

Material: Aluminum
Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA)
Amplifies weak satellite signals with minimal added noise

Material: Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) semiconductor
Local Oscillator (LO)
Generates stable frequency for downconversion mixing

Material: Quartz crystal, semiconductor components
Mixer
Combines incoming signal with LO frequency to produce IF

Material: Semiconductor diodes or transistors
IF Amplifier
Amplifies the downconverted intermediate frequency signal

Material: Semiconductor components on PCB

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB).

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Satellite Communication Systems

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB)

Manufacturer profiles associated with Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB).

Sourcing Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB) from China?

Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.

Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical input frequency range of an LNB?

The input frequency range covers Ku-band (10.7–12.75 GHz) and C-band (3.4–4.2 GHz) downlink frequencies, as listed in the directory. Confirm the exact range for your model.

How is the LNB powered?

The LNB is powered via the coaxial cable with a DC supply voltage of 11–20 V and consumes 150–250 mA. The receiver typically provides this voltage.

What is the noise figure and why is it important?

The noise figure is 0.1–0.5 dB. Lower noise figure means less signal degradation, which is critical for weak satellite signals. Verify the value for your specific LNB.

What connector type does the LNB use?

The output connector is F-type, which is standard for satellite IF signals. Ensure your cable and receiver are compatible.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Low-Noise Block Downconverter (LNB)

Ask for use case, specification boundaries, supplier type, and RFQ preparation information for this product.

Where it goes: Straight to the CNFX editorial desk, and to the manufacturer if this product is linked to a claimed profile. Nothing is broadcast to a supplier list.
Your details stay here: We do not sell or rent enquiry data, and we do not add you to a mailing list. Used only to answer this request.
No commission, no middleman: CNFX is a directory. We take no cut of any order and never negotiate on a supplier's behalf.
What we don't claim: A listing is not an endorsement. Qualify every supplier and verify every figure yourself before ordering.

pressure:	Atmospheric pressure only (sealed unit, not pressure-rated)
other spec:	Input Frequency Range: 10.7-12.75 GHz, Output Frequency: 950-2150 MHz, Local Oscillator Frequency: 9.75/10.6 GHz, Noise Figure: 0.3-0.7 dB typical
temperature:	-40°C to +70°C (operational), -55°C to +85°C (storage)

Product Specifications

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards