Quasi-Optical Millimeter-wave power Amplifiers

Compact Software, a leading software company in development of CAD tools for microwave and RF has teamed up with Avoca Laboratories, a pioneering company in the field of quasi-optics and Cornell University to develop a novel planar high power quasi-optical amplifier array. The array is based on successful experimental work at Cornell through Raytheon support. The design is based on a series of unit cell monolithic power amplifiers (pHEMT), isolated in such a way that they can be modeled and evaluated individually. During Phase I, we will design and simulate the amplifier array by developing software tools to accurately simulate the components of the quasi-optical system. Such a capability does not exist in any simulators and is considered to be an obstacle in exploring new ideas in this emerging field. During Phase II, we will utilize advanced GaAs technology to fabricate an amplifier array optimized by our commercially available nonlinear circuit simulator, Microwave Harmonica. Also we will develop simulation tools to enable modeling of grating patterns for instances of non-normal incident radiation. The successful outcome of this effort will result in demonstration of a novel high power quasi-optical amplifier array and CAD tools related to cost effective research and realization of quasi- optical components. Anticipated Benefits: The proposed amplifier arrays are most suited for fabrication by the existing monolithic technology. Hence, large volume production is possible with a significant reduction in manufacturing cost. The CAD enhancements resulting from this effort will also enable the quasi-optical community to perform cost effective research on quasi-optical components and systems.