Delta-Sigma Direct Digital Synthesizer

Q-DOT proposes to develop a monolithic, Delta-Sigma Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS) suitable for use in a multi-function phased array antenna systems (e.g., Digital Array Radar (DAR)). Its wide bandwidth (600 MHz) enables the DDS to produce a variety ofsignals including the chirp waveforms for radar. The single-bit, delta-sigma architecture offers high purity (-150 dBc/Hz), low in-band spurious content (100 dB SFDR) signals on one integrated circuit realized in IBM's SiGe BiCMOS process. In addition,this sophisticated DDS will support beamforming operations (i.e., time delay, phase shift, amplitude weighting). Its small size, low power dissipation, and low cost make the Delta-Sigma DDS attractive for integration into advanced T/R modules. Under theproposed Phase II Base effort, Q-DOT will develop a monolithic Delta-Sigma DAC IC realized with SiGe BiCMOS technology. In the Phase II Option, the Delta-Sigma DAC integrated IC will be integrated with commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components to form astored-waveform, Delta-Sigma DDS Module. Q-DOT will work with the Navy to insert the Delta-Sigma DDS into advanced DAR during Phase III.