What frequency does a Ka-Band LNB use?
A Ka-Band LNB receives satellite downlink signals in the 18.3-20.2 GHz range (with the broader Ka satellite band spanning roughly 17.7-21.2 GHz). Local oscillator frequencies vary by system and region, so Ka LNBs are typically matched to a specific satellite/service plan. Ka-band enables very high throughput and small dishes but is more sensitive to rain fade.
Ka-band supports the high bandwidth needed for modern high-throughput satellites (HTS) used in broadband internet and spot-beam services. The very high frequency allows narrow, focused beams and compact terminals, delivering large data capacity.
The main drawback is atmospheric attenuation: because wavelengths are short, Ka-band signals are strongly affected by heavy rain and moisture, causing more pronounced rain fade than Ku or C band. System designers compensate with adaptive coding and modulation and higher link margins. Because Ka services often use non-standard oscillator plans, always match the LNB's LO specification to the target satellite.