Active waveguide transition having a probe and RF amplifier system and which is usable in a transmit/receive communication system

An active waveguide transition comprising:

• (a) a waveguide defining a waveguide volume, the waveguide including a back short wall at a first end;
• (b) a first probe mounted on the waveguide in an operable position extending into the waveguide volume;
• (c) a first RF electrical signal connector;
• (d) a first circuit assembly mechanically coupled to an exterior surface of the waveguide, the first circuit assembly including a first multi-layer ceramic substrate with an RF amplifier system mounted thereon, the RF amplifier system being electrically coupled to the first multi-layer ceramic substrate, the first probe, and the first RF electrical signal connector to define an active first signal path for RF communication signals between the first probe and first RF signal connector;
• and
• (e) a second RF electrical signal connector, the second RF electrical signal connector being electrically coupled to the first probe to define a second signal path between the first probe and the second RF electrical signal connector.