Ultrafast digital switch matrix for programmable routing and distribution of digitized RF signals

A fully reconfigurable multi-carrier rf communications system requires a fast, versatile switch matrix, which will permit distribution of various signals between a set of antennas and a set of radios. This is carried out most efficiently in the digital domain, but requires the use of ultrafast circuits that can accurately process multi-GHz rf signals. Superconductor electronics can provide high-fidelity rf data converters, as well as fast digital logic circuits, both of which have already been demonstrated by HYPRES. The present project proposes to apply the same ultrafast technology to the development of a high-speed digital switch matrix that connects the data converters to digital signal processors. This represents the final essential component to a complete superconducting digital-RF transceiver, which will enable true software-defined radio functionality from the High Frequency (HF) to the Extremely High Frequency (EHF) communications band. The goal of this Phase II project is to demonstrate a variety of asynchronous multi-rate and multi-casting switch matrices at speeds up to 40 GHz, with extendibility to 160 GHz using the next generation of niobium superconductor integrated circuit technology.