MMIC based phased array radar T/R modules

Abstract

In order to lower the cost of basic MMIC components and modules for commercial and civilian phased array applications dramatic cost reductions when compared to the present military system approaches must be realized. These cost reductions can only be achieved by employing highly integrated RFICs which are produced on high volume process lines for low cost, using GaAs MMICs and Silicon based technologies where appropriate, exploiting high volume plastic packaging technologies for both low cost and high performance, and employing commercial printed circuit board and module manufacturing technologies. The viability of these approaches is already being demonstrated on a number of phased array radar projects ranging from L-Band to X-Band. Results for an ongoing S-Band Phased Array effort are the basis for this work. In this project, M/A-COM Technology Solutions' high performance pHEMT MMIC processes to produce highly integrated Tx and Rx ICs are being employed. Logic control is realized in standard low cost CMOS technology. These ICs are packaged in industry standard PQFN packages. The packaged ICs are then surface mounted low cost printed circuit boards to realize the final T/R Module.