Development of Quasi-Optical Circuits for Millimeter-Wave Frequency Operation

The recent FCC allocation of the frequency band 27.5 to 29.5 GHz band for cellular broadcast television provides a critical opportunity for the demonstration of quasi-optical transmitter technology. We are proposing a new millimeter wave quasi-optical spatial power combiner for this application. The combiner utilizes the concept of millimeter wave mode-locking, developed by Avoca researchers, to transmit the outputs of a large number of upconverted video channels distributed across a planar array. The array elements feature a highly efficient class-c oscillator. During Phase I, Avoca Labs proposes to build a proof-of-concept five element array with a 28 GHz carrier for transmitting five, 18 MHz FM modulated video channels. Anticipated Benefits: Quasi-optical technology is expected to have a major impact on millimeter-wave wireless telecommunications applications. The commercial market for cellular broadcast television hardware is expected to exceed several billion dollars before the turn of the century.