X-Band Digital Transmit Module for DBF Transmit/Receive Array

An X-band digital transmit module will be developed that is suitable for phased-array radar and communications applications. This proposed Phase II SBIR will combine our Phase-I X-band transmit module design with a DBF receiver that Applied Radar is developing through separate (non-SBIR) funding from AFRL. In addition, we will investigate the development of a synthesizer to provide a common LO signal to the transmit and receive modules. The design will utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components wherever possible. Careful attention will be paid to form factor, electrical and mechanical connectivity issues and thermal dissipation. This transmit module will utilize the same packaging and pinout as Applied Radar's DBF receive module. This will allow Applied Radar's existing digital receive beamformer (DBF processor) to function as a digital transmit beamformer with slight firmware modifications. The existing receive array aperture may also be used for transmit so that the transmit and receive arrays can be operated side-by-side in a bistatic configuration. This will allow rapid development and demonstration of a simultaneous transmit/receive X-band DBF array. Alternatively, the digital transmit module may be packaged together with the digital receive module and a LO synthesizer to form a versatile transceiver module for many commercial applications.