Low Power InP MMICs for Low Noise Receivers

"This Phase II proposal is presented as the follow on to the Phase I SBIR AF00-242 entitled "Low Power InP MMIC for Low Noise Receivers". The objective of the program is to minimize the DC power consumption in phased array receive antennas by circuitdesign and device modifications. In particular the program focus is on the development of 44 GHz LNAs. Results of the Phase I contract are summarized as a part of this Phase II proposal. A publication survey was carried out to identify both companiesdeveloping InP processes and to determine the optimal InP structures for the LNA application. The conclusion is that InP HEMT and MHEMT show state of the art results at 44 GHz. An industry survey was carried out and 19 companies were identified as havingInP HEMT, InP HBT or MHEMT on their road maps. Eleven of the 19 are focused on HEMT devices suitable to this LNA application. Noise and Scattering parameter models were received from one of the foundries and a four stage LNA with 30 dB gain, 1.6 dB noisefigure, and 18mW power dissipation was designed. This represents a factor or four advantage in power dissipation over GaAs PHEMT. Additional work carried out include linear and nonlinear device modeling, and simulation and or discussion of 10 additionalLNA circuit topologies that will further improve and enhance LNA performance. The Phase II program will include the development of a family of multi-function LNAs at 44 GHz. Beyond the