Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) Beamforming Weights

In phased-array antenna systems, beam forming and steering is achieved by controlling phase and amplitude of the signal at each antenna element. Such beam control is attained by using high-speed and high-precision phase and amplitude modulators. For applications in small platforms, such control elements must be built in miniature form with low power dissipation. MMIC technology with its potential for large-scale integration provides the basis for such control elements. In Phase 1 of this program, Hittite investigated MMIC designs for versatile vector modulators operating in EHF frequencies and novel semiconductor processes for implementation of those designs. The Phase 2 effort will be directed to design, fabricate, and demonstrate those devices for applications in MILSATCOM systems. Both active and passive designs will be investigated and novel processes will be assessed for its viability for practical application. The proposed program will lead to a family of MMIC products suitable for beamforming and beam weight control. Such devices may be used as modulators and demodulators in commercial systems as well.