[amsat-bb] ARR Preamp Documentation

[Mark Brueggemann K5LXP]

Poked around the web for a while and didn't see any downloadable 
data on ARR preamps.  I am trying to find out what the exact 
DGFET/BPT/GaAsFET the 144 and 430 models use, and if the 
DGFETs/BPT/GaAsFET's are interchangeable.  I anticipate blowing 
them up when I get my sat setup going soon, and I would like to order 
up some spare devices (exact replacements or suitable substitutes).  
I have the PxxxVDG's but I'm reading that the DGFET and bipolar 
versions are less ESD fragile than the GaAs ones albiet less gain.  
Is there an advantage to one over the other in practical ham 
satellite applications?

Thanks, 

Mark K5LXP
Albuquerque, NM