7 GHz SiGe High-Efficiency Power Amplifier Module (PAM) for Phased Arrays (9662)

Q-DOT proposes to develop a SiGe Power Amplifier RFIC with high efficiency and high linearity for use in the 7 GHz downlink multiple-beam antenna (MBA) on the Transformational Satellite (TSAT). The power amplifier will provide a minimum linear output power of 500 mW at 7 GHz, with an ultimate goal of 1 W. Design techniques will be implemented to simultaneously maintain a high average power-added efficiency (PAE) and low IMD while operating with multiple carriers to meet the requirements of the 7 GHz MBA. The power amplifier will be implemented in IBM's advanced SiGe BiCMOS technology to maximize integration onto a single chip. This will reduce the size and weight of the power amplifier, as well as improve its reliability. During Phase I, an assessment of the RF output power and PAE capability for a power amplifier developed in IBM's SiGe will be performed. Architectures for increasing average power-added efficiency and linearity will also be developed, resulting in the conceptual design for the complete power amplifier. In Phase II, the power amplifier will be realized in SiGe BiCMOS, and then tailored to additional military and/or commercial applications in Phase III.