RF Design
RF-Design GmbH is a German manufacturer of RF distribution equipment - switch matrices, RF-over-Fiber systems, power meters, line amplifiers, redundancy switches, and LNB controllers - serving satellite operators, teleports, broadcasters, telecom companies, and aerospace/defense integrators globally via direct sales and a network of 25+ regional channel partners.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded1998
- HeadquartersLorsch, Germany
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What RF Design does
RF-Design GmbH is a privately held German RF (Radio Frequency) distribution equipment manufacturer founded in 1998 and headquartered in Bensheim, Germany. The company designs, develops, and manufactures 1RU/19-inch rack-mounted hardware for satellite earth stations, teleports, broadcast facilities, telecommunications operators, and - more recently - aerospace and defense applications. Its product portfolio is organized into seven core families: FlexLink RF switch matrices and routers (e.g., R25, S9E, K7A, SP8T/SP16T); FiberLink and QLink RF-over-Fiber transport systems supporting transmission distances up to 20 km; PwrM3G/8G/40G/70G RF power meters covering up to 70 GHz (anchored by European Patent EP4016092); Line Amplifiers including 1+1 and N+1 redundant configurations (RLA, HQR, RLS, RLC series); Redundancy Switches (FlexLink RSC201); Active Splitters and Combiners (LSCX, MFC/LSA/LCA modular systems); LNB supply and control units (LRC1142, SLC4124); and Passive RF components.
The business model is direct enterprise field sales augmented by a global network of 25+ regional channel partners and system integrators spanning the Americas, EMEA, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East. Pricing is quote-based and not publicly disclosed, with each configuration custom-specified and sold under multi-year contracts to B2B customers; Custom Made Solutions revenue stream addresses non-standard switching and integrated system requirements. Recurring revenue derives from technical services, repair, RMA processing, and product upgrades. Named enterprise customers include Intelsat (RLA270A line amplifiers at multiple ground stations), AXESS Networks (HQR145C at a Mexican ground station), CPI Vertex Antennentechnik (custom components for lunar/military Ka-band gateways), Elcom India (FiberLink2plus), and a leading Netherlands-based media services company (EcoLine splitters). The company is ISO 9001 certified, WEEE-registered, and a member of the World Teleport Association; it holds one granted European patent and has secured two non-dilutive grants from Land Hessen (LOEWE3 for the hdRF digital-transformation research project with Hochschule Darmstadt, and DIGI for robotic CNC and ERP expansion). Management is led by founder-Managing Director Ralf Mayr, with a lean team of 11-50 employees.
RF Design firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- RF Design
- Legal name
- RF-Design GmbH
- Website
- https://rf-design-online.de
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 1998
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Short description
- RF-Design GmbH is a German manufacturer of RF distribution equipment - switch matrices, RF-over-Fiber systems, power meters, line amplifiers, redundancy switches, and LNB controllers - serving satellite operators, teleports, broadcasters, telecom companies, and aerospace/defense integrators globally via direct sales and a network of 25+ regional channel partners.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
RF Design industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Satellite Communications Hardware
- NAICS
- Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing (334220), Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing (33429)
- SIC
- Radio & Tv Broadcasting & Communications Equipment (3663), Communications Equipment, Nec (3669)
- akta.pro primary industry
- RF & Wireless Components/Modules (RF front-end, antennas, industrial wireless modules) (IMAGAJAG)
- akta.pro secondary industry
- RF Front-End Modules (FEMs) & Integrated RF Modules (HDAHAMAA)
Keywords
Where RF Design is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Lorsch
- HQ country
- Germany
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices1 record
Markets served
RF Design business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Personnel, Supply Chain, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- RF Equipment Hardware Sales: Direct sales of RF distribution equipment including switch matrices, RF-over-Fiber systems, line amplifiers, monitoring solutions, redundancy switches, splitters/combiners, LNB controllers, and passive components. Products are typically sold as complete systems with pricing based on configuration and customization requirements.
- Custom Made Solutions: Bespoke RF equipment designed and manufactured to customer specifications for specialized applications, often involving custom switching matrices and integrated systems.
- Technical Services and Support: Technical support, repair, inspection, and upgrade services for RF-Design products including RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) process for product servicing.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Other | Multi-year contract | B2B enterprise equipment with custom pricing |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels6 records
Marketing channels6 records
RF Design product offering
Product offeringCore offering
RF-Design GmbH manufactures RF (Radio Frequency) distribution equipment for satellite communications, broadcast, and telecommunications infrastructure. The product portfolio includes RF switch matrices/routers, RF-over-Fiber transport systems, line amplifiers, RF power monitoring solutions, redundancy switches, active splitters/combiners, LNB supply/control units, and passive RF components. The company also offers Custom Made Solutions for specialized applications, with all products designed and manufactured in Germany.
Product overview
RF-Design is a German company specializing in the development and manufacture of high-quality RF (Radio Frequency) distribution equipment for satellite, broadcast, and telecommunications infrastructures. The product portfolio is organized into distinct product families: RF Switch Matrix/Routers (FlexLink series including R25, K7A, K73SA, SP8T/SP16T, S9E, S2E, and S92E models) for professional RF signal routing in teleports, satellite earth stations, and broadcasting facilities; RF-over-Fiber systems (FiberLink CompactLine, FiberLinkplus, FiberLink2plus, QLink series, and EcoLine) for long-distance optical RF signal transmission; RF Monitoring Solutions (Satellite Transponder Monitor stm3G, PwrM3G/8G/40G/70G power meters, SQA Series, DC2150 Directional Coupler) for power level monitoring and signal quality analysis; Line Amplifiers (HQR, HQA, HQS/HQC, RLS, RLC, and RLA series) for signal amplification across L-Band, Extended L-Band, C-Band, and Ku-Band frequencies; Redundancy Switches (FlexLink RSC201 Series) for maintaining signal availability; Active Splitters and Combiners (LSCX, LSC, MFC/LSA, Baseline series) for multi-antenna configurations; LNB-supply/control products (LRC, SLC, MFC/SLC, MFC/ILC) for LNB power supply and redundancy management; and Passive RF Components (DC2150, SPL Series, ITC, BT) for signal conditioning. The company also offers Custom Made Solutions for specialized applications. All products are designed and manufactured in Germany with a focus on quality, reliability, and innovation.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- FlexLink: RF switch matrix and router product line
- FiberLink
- PwrM
- QLink
- EcoLine
Products and services
- FlexLink RF Switch Matrix/Router Series Professional RF switch matrix/router units available in 8:1 and 16:1 configurations (1RU/19 inch form factor) for RF signal routing in teleports, satellite earth stations, broadcasting, and CATV/IPTV architectures. The series includes distributive, combining, and hybrid model variants (R25, K7A, K73SA, S9E, S2E, S92E-3232).
- FiberLink RF-over-Fiber Transport Systems Redundant RF-over-Fiber transport platforms for flexible, high-quality secure optical transmission of RF signals (L-Band, Extended L-Band, and Broadband up to 3.2 GHz) over distances up to 20km. Available in 16x1, 4x2+1, 2x4+1, dual channel, and N+2 redundant configurations. Includes CompactLine, FiberLinkplus, FiberLink2plus, QLinkplus, QLink Quad, QLink2, and EcoLine variants (including S-/C-Band 10GHz).
- PwrM RF Power Meter Series Broadband RF power meters covering 50MHz to 70GHz for monitoring RF power in satellite, cable, and terrestrial applications. Includes PwrM3G (50MHz-3GHz), PwrM8G (up to 8GHz), PwrM40G (40GHz), and PwrM70G (100MHz-70GHz) variants. Modules available in compact 1U/19 inch rack format with 2 inputs per module, supporting up to 8 RF signals/paths simultaneously with high accuracy, dynamic range, threshold monitoring, alarming, and history recording.
- Satellite Transponder Monitor stm3G High-performance, compact and rack-mountable selective RF power monitoring unit specifically developed for monitoring the power levels of individual satellite transponders in 3GHz and L-band range.
- Line Amplifier Series Professional RF line amplifiers for L-Band, Extended L-Band, C-Band, and Ku-Band applications. Includes HQR (1:1 and N+1 redundant), HQA series, HQS/HQC series, RLS2708A/RLS2716A (1+1 redundant with integrated 1:8 or 1:16 splitters), RLC2708A/RLC2716A (with integrated combiners), and RLA270A (1+1 redundant L-Band). Features variable gain adjustment, slope equalization, 10MHz external reference, RF power monitoring, switchable LNB-supply, and 1:1 redundant dual power supply.
- FlexLink RSC201 Redundancy Switch Series Redundancy switches for maintaining constant and stable signal availability in broadcast and telecommunications environments.
- Active Splitter/Combiner Systems Active hybrid L-Band splitter/combiner systems including LSCX818 (8-way), LSCX414 (4-way), LSC Series, MFC/LSA Modular Splitters, MFC/LCA Modular Combiners, and Baseline series (LSEL/LSA/ISA/IFSA/ELSA splitters, LCEL/LCA/ICA/IFCA/ELCA combiners). Features switchable LNB-supply (13/15/18VDC, 22kHz tone, 400mA), selectable BUC-supply (24V or 48V), external 10MHz reference, remote configuration via Ethernet (WebGUI, SNMP), and optional 1:1 redundant dual power supply.
- LNB Supply/Control Units LNB supply and control units including LRC1142 LNB Redundancy Controller (switching and managing device for redundant LNB operation with continuous monitoring), SLC4124 Standard LNB/LNA Controller (four internal Bias-Tees/Directional couplers, 13V/18V/24V/22kHz supply for up to 4 LNBs), MFC/SLC4403M, and MFC/ILC4803M modular controllers. Features individual LNB configuration via Web-Interface, 1RU/19 inch rack mount, and 1:1 hot-swappable power supply redundancy.
- Passive RF Components Passive RF components for RF signal conditioning and distribution including DC2150 Directional Coupler, SPL Series splitters, ITC5075, and BT2450 for RF signal handling.
- Custom Made Solutions Bespoke RF equipment designed and manufactured to customer specifications for specialized applications, including custom switching matrices (FlexLink K32S-168, FlexLink K33S-648, FlexLink K73S) and integrated RF systems for unique customer requirements.
- Technical Services and Support Technical support, repair, inspection, and upgrade services for RF-Design products including RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) process for product servicing.
Quantifiable outcome
- RF power monitoring accuracy with high dynamic range for precise signal level measurement up to 70GHz
- +2 more outcomes
Companies that use RF Design
Customer profileNamed customers5 records
Segments4 records
Ideal customer profiles4 records
RF Design technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature5 records
RF Design partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Ten partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and standard.
- Hochschule Darmstadt (Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences)coreCollaboration with Hochschule Darmstadt's Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (EIT) for the hdRF project. RF-Design and the university received funding from Land Hessen as part of LOEWE-Förderlinie 3. The project drives transformation from analog to digital satellite industry infrastructures. Project led at RF-Design by Ralf Mayr (CEO) and Muhamad Ibrahim (Research & Development Deputy Manager), with scientific support from Prof. Dr. Ingo Gaspard and Prof. Dr. Michael Kuhn.
- CPI Vertex Antennentechnik GmbHcoreCPI Vertex Antennentechnik, a global leader in innovative antenna systems and part of Communications & Power Industries (CPI) group, agreed to purchase custom components from RF-Design for gateway antenna systems used in lunar and military communications networks. CPI Vertex was selected to provide 20-meter X-band and Ka-band antennas for telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C) applications to support KSAT's commercial network for lunar communications, compliant with requirements of planned lunar relay satellite constellations and NASA's LEGS program. Adam Godden, Director of Program Management at CPI Vertex, stated they look forward to working with RF-Design as a company that shares their vision of shaping the future of communication technology.
- Avicom EngenhariacoreStrategic partnership announced October 2024 with Brazilian company Avicom Engenharia, a leader in high-tech solutions for Broadcast, Pay TV and OTT. The partnership expands Avicom's portfolio to serve satellite, broadcast, OTT and cable TV communication segments with RF-Design's products, integrations, and technical support. Jaime Ferreira, General Director of Avicom, highlighted that the partnership enables customized solutions meeting demanding market demands with access to last-generation equipment manufactured with highest quality standards and ISO 9001 certification.
- Toner Cable EquipmentmajorLong-standing distribution partner for RF-Design products in USA (Horsham, PA) and UK (Berkshire). Toner Cable Equipment, Inc. serves the North American market while Toner Cable Equipment UK Ltd. serves the UK and Ireland markets.
- Orbital ConnectmajorDistribution partner serving USA (Los Angeles, CA) and Bulgaria/EMEA markets with RF-Design products.
- Beijing Pace Electronics Co., Ltd.majorPrimary distribution partner for RF-Design products in China (Beijing), representing the company in one of the largest Asian markets for satellite communications equipment.
- Vincor LTDstandardPartner for LSC Series products. Five LSC chassis each fully populated with modular type 8-way splitters/combiners and 1:1 redundant power supplies delivered through this partnership.
- IKTech CorporationstandardDistribution partner serving the USA market (Dania Beach, FL) with RF-Design products.
- Globo Tech GmbHstandardDistribution partner for RF-Design products in Switzerland (Emmenbrücke).
- NEWSAT LTDstandardDistribution partner for RF-Design products in Bulgaria (Sofia).
Scale indicators6 records
Recent moves7 records
Expansion highlights6 records
RF Design competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- ETL Systems: UK-based manufacturer specializing in RF distribution equipment for satellite ground stations, including switch matrices, RF-over-Fiber systems, and L-Band components. Directly competes with RF-Design across satellite and broadcast markets with overlapping product lines and customer base.
- ViaLite Communications (a brand of Pulse Power and Measurement): Specializes in RF-over-Fiber links and satellite communication equipment. Directly competes with RF-Design's FiberLink product line, serving teleport operators and broadcasters with optical RF distribution products.
- Work Microwave GmbH: German manufacturer of RF equipment for satellite communications including frequency converters, modulators, and RF-over-Fiber systems. Competitor with similar German engineering heritage serving the same satellite ground-station and teleport customer base.
- Actox: Manufacturer of RF components including block upconverters, frequency converters, and RF power amplifiers for satellite communications. Competes in the same L-Band and satcom ground-segment equipment market as RF-Design.
Broad incumbents
- Comtech Xicom Technology (Comtech Telecommunications): US-based manufacturer of high-power amplifiers and RF equipment for satellite communications, defense, and broadcast. Larger incumbent with broader portfolio including TWTA and SSPA products, serving similar satellite operator and teleport customers as RF-Design.
- Newtec (now ST Engineering iDirect): Belgian satellite communications equipment manufacturer (now part of ST Engineering iDirect) offering modems, hubs, and ground-segment equipment. Larger player in satellite broadband infrastructure with overlapping customer base in telecom and broadcast segments.
- CPI Vertex Antennentechnik (Communications & Power Industries): Global leader in antenna systems for satellite communications, defense, and scientific applications. CPI Vertex is both a customer and potential competitive threat given its broader RF system integration capabilities in the same end markets.
- SpacePath Communications (ST Engineering iDirect): Manufacturer of high-power amplifiers and RF equipment for satellite communications. Operates as part of ST Engineering's larger satcom portfolio, competing with RF-Design in uplink and broadcast RF distribution segments.
- Advantech Wireless (now part of ST Engineering iDirect): Manufacturer of RF amplifiers, satellite modems, and ground-segment equipment. Larger incumbent offering more comprehensive solutions that overlap with RF-Design's portfolio for satellite operators and broadcasters.
- Comba Telecom: Hong Kong-based manufacturer of wireless and RF infrastructure equipment including antennas, repeaters, and RF subsystems. Broader incumbent with wireless telecommunications focus that intersects with RF-Design's telecom segment.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses4 records
Competitive moat4 records
Key risks5 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
RF Design social profiles
Digital presenceRF Design compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance2 records
RF Design financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
RF Design leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles6 records
RF Design funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
RF Design M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about RF Design
What does RF Design do?
RF-Design GmbH manufactures RF (Radio Frequency) distribution equipment for satellite communications, broadcast, and telecommunications infrastructure. The product portfolio includes RF switch matrices/routers, RF-over-Fiber transport systems, line amplifiers, RF power monitoring solutions, redundancy switches, active splitters/combiners, LNB supply/control units, and passive RF components. The company also offers Custom Made Solutions for specialized applications, with all products designed and manufactured in Germany.
Is RF Design a public or private company?
RF Design is a private company. It is classified as founder individual operated bootstrapped and is currently operating.
When was RF Design founded?
RF Design was founded in 1998. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is RF Design based?
RF Design is headquartered in Lorsch, Germany, in the Europe region.
How does RF Design make money?
Three revenue lines are on record. RF Equipment Hardware Sales are the primary driver. The others are custom Made Solutions and technical Services and Support.
Who are RF Design's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are ETL Systems, ViaLite Communications (a brand of Pulse Power and Measurement), Work Microwave GmbH and Actox. Broad incumbents are Comtech Xicom Technology (Comtech Telecommunications), Newtec (now ST Engineering iDirect), CPI Vertex Antennentechnik (Communications & Power Industries), SpacePath Communications (ST Engineering iDirect), Advantech Wireless (now part of ST Engineering iDirect) and Comba Telecom.
Does RF Design have an API?
No public API is recorded for RF Design.
What industry is RF Design in?
RF Design's product category is Satellite Communications Hardware. Its primary akta.pro industry code is IMAGAJAG, RF & Wireless Components/Modules (RF front-end, antennas, industrial wireless modules), with a secondary code of HDAHAMAA, RF Front-End Modules (FEMs) & Integrated RF Modules. Its NAICS code is 334220 and its SIC code is 3663.