Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) Compatible Phase Shifters for Phased-Array Radars

High-power-handling, low-loss (1 dB) microwave phase shifters hold the key to affordable electronically steerable apertures for radar and communications, eliminating the need for active TR modules. Nuvotronics is developing a solid-state approach providing loss performance equal to the best demonstrated MEMS phase shifters, reliably handling five watts peak power with near-zero gain compression, and nanosecond switching time. Using state-of-the-art MMIC processes, our new bit architectures provide flat phase states and low loss over wide bandwidth. In Phase I of this program Nuvotronics developed circuit models of four-bit solid-state phase shifters at S and X-band to show feasibility. Our Phase I program culminated in brassboard demonstration of a C-band 180 degree phase shifter bit with 10 watts power handling using production-released MMIC technology. During Phase II we will demonstrate a four-bit design at X-band that meets power and loss objectives with production cost target of <$15 in volume, and populate a sub-array to demonstrate high-power beam-steering.