The 26th edition of the European Microwave Week (EuMW 2023) took place in Berlin 17-22 September continuing the annual series of highly successful microwave events that started back in 1998. The theme for EuMW 2023 was “Waves Beyond Walls” as we envision that science can help tear down walls. In the capital city of Berlin, we can see the history of divided and reunified Germany to realize how important international exchange is for peace and prosperity. In addition to the three co-located conferences: European Microwave Conference, European Microwave Integrated Circuits Conference and European Radar Conference, EuMW 2023 included the Defense, Security and Space Forum; Automotive Forum; 5G to 6G Forum; and an exhibition with about 300 companies.
Unlike IEEE IMS, EuMW has a truly international representation of companies with a balanced representation from Asia, Europe and the US. It also has the Automotive Forum and Defense, Security and Space Forum that you do not find at other conferences giving the event a systems-level application focus. It is great to hear the latest sensor technologies from automotive OEMs and the latest in aerospace and defense technologies from OEMs and suppliers in a forum where they are not so restricted by what they can discuss publicly. EuMW really involves the whole ecosystem from components to full systems.
Microwave Journal hosted the Lunch and Learn Industry Session for the Defense, Security and Space Forum that included free lunch boxes. The talks given during the session were, “Testing for Coexistence in Crowded and Contested RF Environments” given by Tim Fountain, Rohde & Schwarz Global Market Segment Manager, RADAR & EW Aerospace & Defense Market Segment, and “How Key Technologies Are Simplifying System Design and Improving Connectivity Today and Beyond” given by Greg Clark, Senior Manager for Defense and Aerospace Markets at Qorvo.
In the sold-out industry exhibition, Microwave Journal visited many of the companies and below is a summary of our findings.
AFT microwave provides a wide range of ferrite-based microwave circulators, isolators and loads that use the company’s internal ferrite ceramic production. The company also offers passive components and subsystems, typically in waveguide, that may also incorporate their ferrites. They also offer a portfolio of arc detectors, automatic frequency control modules and temperature compensating units.
Altum RF designs and develops a broad range of RF products for commercial and industrial applications. Their product set is largely focused on amplifiers (power, low noise and distributed), but they have a roadmap to rapidly expand that product portfolio. These products use GaAs or GaN technology and target wireless, Satcom, test and measurement, aerospace and defense and ISM applications.
AMCAD teamed up with Maury in their booth and demonstrated a power amplifier characterization bench featuring the latest wideband GaN Doherty design from Wupatec.
- Wideband two-stage 8 W 500 MHz iBW GaN PA Design
- Commercial GaN-on-SiC devices, covering 3.7 to 4.2 GHz
- 47.5 dBm peak power with 30 dB of linear gain
- PAE higher than 42 percent @8 dB OBO
In collaboration with AMD, this demonstration uses the latest Zynq™ UltraScale+™ Zynq RFSoC DFE and AMD's latest DPD and CFR IP. The bench is controlled using IQSTAR software from AMCAD Engineering, which allows a comprehensive characterization of the RF power amplifier in an environment close to the final implementation of the radio unit.
Another demonstration focused on an innovative dual-pulse technique combining a pre-RF pulse and pulse-IV measurements for RF component characterization. These tests are dedicated to transistor compact modeling. Extracting an RF transistor compact model can be time-consuming and costly. AMCAD has developed a new modeling methodology for model extraction. A variable pre-RF pulse shapes the I-V network to obtain a dynamic evolution of the charge trapping state, obtaining a more representative description of the IV curves when the transistor is used in large-signal conditions. These measurements are essential for efficient compact modeling extraction and are dedicated to advanced RF power amplifier design work. This solution uses a VNA-based Load Pull and our AMCAD pulse-IV systems to guarantee the perfect alignment of the small-signal and large-signal data used for model extraction work. Teaming up with Maury Microwave and MPI, they also demonstrated on-wafer measurements using a Nano5G tuner integrated with the AMCAD Pulsed IV System AM3200 on an MPI probe station. All the equipment was controlled using IVCAD software.
Ampleon demonstrated its latest LDMOS and GaN RF power transistors and integrated products. They highlighted the latest products for 5G telecom applications including a broad range of highly efficient small cell, integrated massive MIMO, LDMOS Doherty drivers as well as high-power final stage GaN devices suitable for use in all 5G frequency bands. They also had their latest solid-state power amplifiers targeting industrial, particle acceleration, medical, aerospace and broadcast applications. These GaN RF products are specifically designed to deliver the next level of high-power, continuous-wave solutions specifically engineered for the best efficiency while achieving the lowest possible thermal resistance. They also displayed their rugged solid-state ART LDMOS Transistors that are ideally suited as RF sources for plasma generators, CO2 laser drivers, magnetic resonance imaging and fusion energy applications.
AnaPico develops, manufactures and supplies RF and microwave test and measurement instruments for a wide range of commercial and government applications. They offer RF signal generators, frequency synthesizers and phase noise analyzers. The company has a broad range of products with some going to 54 GHz.
ATEK Mikrodalga A.S. (ATEK MIDAS) develops high-frequency integrated circuit (RFIC/MMIC) products. This is the first time we have come across this company but has been in business for many years. The company was launched by ex-Hittite engineers and does design services and MMIC products. Its main markets are Satellite Communication, Telecommunications, Test & Measurement and Aerospace & Defense. ATEK MIDAS is also developing customized IC and module-based solutions based on customer needs. Their goal is to continue expanding with competitive products to support customers’ next-generation solutions.
Becker Nachrichtentechnik designs and manufactures a range of single-function modules and devices up to RF systems. Their modules and devices contain an interesting array of amplifiers, switches and passive products that may then be integrated into full rack mount test, measurement, signal generation, routing and distribution networks. Becker was showcasing its line of intelligent amplifiers (iAMP) with frequencies up to 9.8 GHz and power outputs up to 50 W.
Cadence Design Systems recently announced it has collaborated with TSMC to integrate the new Cadence® Virtuoso® Studio into the TSMC N16 mmWave design reference flow and N6RF design reference flow and added support for the N4PRF design reference flow. With this latest development in Cadence’s and TSMC’s long history of collaboration, joint customers now have access to complete RF design reference flows on the N16, N6 and N4PRF processes for developing optimized, highly reliable, next-generation RFIC designs for use in radar, 5G and Wi-Fi-7 wireless applications for the mobile, automotive, healthcare and aerospace markets. Mutual customers are already using the design reference flows and corresponding TSMC process design kits (PDKs) for RFIC design projects. The Cadence RFIC solution supports TSMC’s advanced processes and features automation capabilities to help customers spend less time developing and integrating critical RF functionality into their designs. The solution supports all aspects of RF design, including passive device modeling, assisted layout automation and EM simulations.
CML Micro is headquartered in the UK, where it designs and manufactures high-performance RF-to-mmWave and mixed-signal baseband/modem processors for wireless communications applications. CML Micro products recently introduced the CMX90B701 and CMX90B702 low-current low-noise gain blocks for the 17 – 23 GHz and 23 – 29.5 GHz bands, respectively. Both devices have a low current consumption of 10 mA with a typical P1dB output figure of +7.5 dBm, an IP3 output of +17.5 dBm and a noise figure of 4 dB. The devices are housed in a low-cost 3 mm x 3 mm QFN package and are fully matched to 50 Ω.
coftech was showing offerings from their quartz components (crystal units, quartz oscillators, quartz filters) SAW filters and duplexers, ceramic filters and antennas. They were also hinting at a new product release later in the fall based on what they called a new crystal design.
Copper Mountain featured many products including the SN5090 Multiport VNAs that are competitively priced, versatile multiport solutions with excellent dynamic range and measurement speed available in 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, 14- and 16-port configurations. They are an organic extension of the Compact VNA family without using the switch matrix, enabling the full complexity of VNA measurements, a streamlined calibration process and reduced test times. The SN5090 hardware can fit a 19” rack and utilizes robust, durable port connectors with ergonomic positioning for simplified cable connection. SN5090 features CMT’s next-generation software that delivers an intuitive and contemporary user interface compatible with both Linux and Windows OS.
Eravant was featuring their waveguide noise source LN2 calibration services up to 220 GHz. They are calibrated in-house using a cold reference termination. A room-temperature or "hot" reference termination is also used. The effective noise temperatures of these terminations are controlled within a fraction of a degree so they are very accurate. Typical ENR flatness is +/- 2 dB over the entire operating bandwidth.
ERZIA is celebrating its 20th anniversary of working on many military and space programs. They have added many new products including the ERA-HPA-2000-4000-39 operating from 20-40 GHz with Pout of 39 dBm and gain of 40 dB. They also have equalizers, switches, mixers, converters, filters and integrated assemblies for a complete line of products.
Gallium Semiconductor is a newer entrant to the compound semiconductor market. They are designing some very good MMICs with some having market-leading performance. One of their most popular parts is a 300 W, 2.45 GHz ISM amplifier with better than 72 percent drain efficiency and 17 dB power gain. It operates within the frequency range of 2.4 to 2.5 GHz and is powered by a 50 V supply rail. Encased in an ACP-800 4L Air Cavity Plastic package, the GTH2e-2425300P offers excellent reliability and thermal performance (0.67 °C/W) with its Super-CMC (ceramic matrix composite) flange.
Gapwaves unveiled Multi-Layer Waveguide (MLW), a breakthrough evolution of its proprietary technology made possible by an elegant synergy of design and manufacturing. Beyond the advantages that waveguides offer, MLW brings unparalleled manufacturing agility, low cost, extremely thin profiles, native thermal handling and massive maximum dimensions. The result is a paradigm shift where MLW not only improves but also opens unprecedented opportunities in a range of applications and markets, starting from automotive radars. Gapwaves also announced a new collaboration with NXP® Semiconductors to develop 3D waveguide antenna solutions based on NXP’s SAF85xx, an industry-first 28nm RFCMOS radar one-chip IC for next-generation ADAS and autonomous driving systems, and Gapwaves proprietary waveguide antenna technology. The collaboration aims to enable new levels of radar detection range and Field of View performance. The combination of this powerful radar one-chip IC together with Gapwaves waveguide antenna significantly reduces coupling losses and thereby enables high-performance radar sensors with extended detection range, improved object separation and better ability to detect and classify small objects.
Golden Devices develops and manufactures additively manufactured components for high-frequency applications up to 300 GHz. These components are developed using additive manufacturing of plastics and a self-developed metallization concept. There was an interesting array of products on display that would have made Escher proud to demonstrate the start-up company’s additive manufacturing capabilities.
HUBER+SUHNER was displaying antennas for all automotive radars including long-, mid-, short-range radars and corner radars. They specialize in the design and manufacturing of fully customized mmWave products using metalized injection molded parts operating up to 140 GHz. They work with radar sensor manufacturers like Bosch, Continental and Uhnder. They also featured their Sucoflex 500 cables that have reliable performance and precise measurement repeatability up to 70 GHz.
iCana launched the ICAMB2629-A, a 26.5 – 29.5 GHz Beamforming IC for 5G mmWave wireless infrastructure. The ICAMB2629-A is a highly integrated and cost-effective solution to fuel the roll-out of the 5G mmWave network and connect many more users at higher data rates. The company also showcased its latest FR1 & FR2 RF components and ran two live demos of their 4T4R small cell RF front-end reference designs for AMD and Analog Devices.
Junkosha was featuring their 26.5 and 50 GHz VNA cables that exhibit excellent phase (within +/- 4.5˚ at 50 GHz) and amplitude (within +/- 0.08dB at 50 GHz) stability in flexure alongside strong phase stability in temperature. Both cables are flexible and can maintain this level of performance when bent 180˚ on a 2.25” radius mandrel, with no spring back. Available in a variety of sized connectors, both cable assemblies also display impressive performance durability – 40,000 tick-tock cycles, typical. The ruggedized port side NMD connector is also available to ensure reliable connections to the VNA.
Keysight Technologies introduced Keysight EDA 2024, a tightly integrated suite of electronic design automation (EDA) software tools that ensure first-pass success. This new integrated EDA software facilitates a “shift left” approach to increase productivity for engineers developing high-speed, high-frequency products in multiple applications. Some new features include:
- RF System Explorer streamlines system and circuit level design workflows for early exploration of system architectures in Advanced Design System
- Digital Pre-Distortion Explorer and Digital Pre-Distortion Designer accelerate wide bandgap power amplifier design and validation using the Dynamic Gain Model
- SystemVue delivers complete Satcom modeling and simulation solutions for 5G non-terrestrial network, DVB-S2X and phased array product development
Keysight EDA 2024 software includes new system and circuit design workflow integration, power amplifier modeling and simulation optimization, and Satcom design evolution enhancements. The improvements expand on the software automation, intellectual property and design data management, and simulation acceleration capabilities previously announced. Powered by Keysight measurement science, the new tools provide engineers with a comprehensive solution that speeds virtual prototype creation with highly accurate validation before building physical prototypes and starting volume production manufacturing.
Keysight also introduced a new compact, four-channel vector signal generator (VSG) capable of signal generation up to 8.5 GHz with 960 MHz of modulation bandwidth per channel.
Kuhne electronic showcased their range of amplifiers, converters, transmitter assemblies, multipliers and signal generators that operate in the 100 MHz to 50 GHz range. The company does its development, design and production at its location in Berg, Germany. The company, now part of Alaris Holdings Ltd. Focuses on applications in defense, medical, plasma, communication and broadcasting markets.
KVG specializes in quartz-based crystal sensors, oscillators and filters. They have recently launched a new range of high frequency, low phase noise miniature OCXOs, the O-70BXXXX-LF series. This new series offers stability of ±50 ppb over an operating temperature range of -20 to 70°C for frequencies up to 125 MHz. They have worked to improve the noise of the oscillator circuit and they claim that this design, in conjunction with a small SC-cut crystal leads to very low phase noise and low G-sensitivity. The device is in a 20.7 x 13.1 x 8.5 mm DIP 14 package.
MACOM was displaying its broad product portfolio with an emphasis on its newly established European Semiconductor Center. This center is the result of their recently completed acquisition of the key manufacturing facilities, capabilities and technologies of OMMIC. The facility is located near Paris in Limeil-Brévannes, France. MACOM will offer its customers higher frequency GaAs and GaN MMICs out of this center.
Marki Microwave just released a new website with full parametric search capabilities and fully database-driven with models, technical data, app notes and everything needed to support the engineer. Check it out at https://markimicrowave.com.
MathWorks recently unveiled Release 2023b (R2023b) of the MATLAB® and Simulink® product families today. R2023b introduces two new products and several major updates that provide new functionality that streamlines the workflows of engineers and researchers. Simulink Fault Analyzer™ enables systematic fault effect and safety analysis using simulation. The new product performs fault injection simulations without modifying engineering designs. Engineers time or trigger faults by specific system conditions and can perform safety analyses, such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), while leveraging simulation. Simulink Fault Analyzer helps engineers create and document formal connections between faults, hazards, fault detection and mitigation logic, and other artifacts when paired with Requirements Toolbox™.
Microwave Products Group BSC Filters has developed a high-speed deconfliction filter system aimed at neutralizing radio receiver jamming interference. At the same time, a frequency agile scalpel-precision communications band is opened on the platform’s ECM system across a wide operational frequency range. The system offers enhanced communication links and simultaneous protection for armored vehicle convoys against RDIEDs under jammer conditions. The system supports all radio protocols, can be integrated into every type of military vehicle and can be configured for static infrastructure protection or portable manpack use.
mmt specializes in aspects of wireless test systems and RF amplifiers and works with a wide array of partners to bring their combined expertise to these applications. As an example of their capabilities, they partnered with Adaura Technologies to develop a 16-channel, rack mount programmable step attenuator that operates from 50 MHz to 8 GHz for a 5G signaling application.
mmTron’s goal was to increase European awareness of its mmWave products and capabilities. Three product families were featured at EuMW: 1) GaN power amplifiers for Satcom, available for both the uplink and the downlink. 2) A unique family of MMICs to maximize the sensitivity and dynamic range of software-defined radios operating into Ka-Band. Developed for high-speed direct RF sampling systems, the MMICs interface the RF signal chain with the A/D and D/A converters. They provide low noise and high linearity amplification, anti-alias filtering, and conversion between the single-ended, 50 Ω RF signals and the differential ports of the data converters. 3) A family of distributed low noise and power amplifier MMICs with upper bandwidths from 20 to 160 GHz, developed for mmWave instrumentation, 6G research and other broadband applications.
MPI Corporation had demos from several partnering companies. Collaborating with AMCAD, MPI showcased a dual-pulse measurement solution aimed at transistor compact modeling, featuring our TS2000-IFE, Sentio and IVCAD software integration. TS2000-IFE & Microsanj Collaboration was showing off their load-pull measurement capabilities developed in collaboration with Microsanj. It emphasized the cutting-edge approach to non-linear characterization. Load-Pull on TS200-IFE with Maury Microwave and Focus Microwaves was a separate demonstration that highlighted the direct tuner connection capabilities of the TS200-IFE, showcasing their TITAN™ low-loss probes. They also had a demonstration of the MPI versatile TITAN probing solutions, ranging from single-ended and dual probes to specialized calibration substrates. QAlibria® RF Calibration Software simplifies complex RF calibration tasks with its intuitive multi-touch and multi-language interface, all backed by NIST calibration capabilities. And finally, one of the most interesting demos we saw was the automated OTA mmW Antenna Characterization, A joint effort with ATV, that presented a fully automated OTA system employing a programmable 6-axis robot for antenna scanning up to 220 GHz.
NI announced new options and extended capabilities for its third generation PXI Vector Signal Transceiver (VST), the PXIe-5842. Combined with NI’s software ecosystem, the PXIe-5842 is a versatile tool that can be used to test and validate products in aerospace and defense applications while supporting traditional RF capabilities such as spectrum analysis, signal analysis and signal generation. The PXIe-5842 delivers precise control over signal parameters and real-time analysis with its extended frequency coverage from 30 MHz to 26.5 GHz. Enhancements also include up to 2 GHz of instantaneous RF bandwidth and upgraded Local Oscillator (LO) offset mode with improved average noise density. This version now enables digital and analog pulse modulation capabilities, and its 16-lane high-speed serial interface enables low-latency digital I/Q data streaming at rates up to the full 2 GHz IBW of the instrument, with futureproofing to 4 GHz. When combined with PXI-based FPGA co-processors from NI, the third generation VST can emulate RF environments or other RF devices for system-level tests. These new capabilities build upon the flexibility and versatility of the PXIe-5842, are useful for generic RF testing and are particularly suitable for aerospace and defense applications.
Pickering Interfaces showcased its extensive range of RF & microwave switching solutions, including the first modules in a new MEMS-based RF PXI/PXIe multiplexer family. Ideal for wireless communications and semiconductor test, Pickering’s new RF multiplexer family is powered by Ideal Switch® from partner, Menlo Microsystems, which are among the first MEMS components on the market with the performance characteristics to support demanding RF testing requirements. In addition to the new RF multiplexer family in PXI/PXIe, Pickering also highlighted the following RF & microwave switching innovations:
- New 110 GHz PXI/PXIe microwave switch – supporting 5G & semiconductor test
- New Microwave Switch Design Tool – a free online tool for configuring flexible PXI & LXI microwave switch products
- Flexible LXI microwave switch platform and turnkey services for LXI microwave switch & signal routing subsystems – including a custom 12x12 LXI microwave switching matrix demo
- Also on show will be a selection from Pickering’s broad portfolio of other switches, along with its PXI, PXIe & LXI/USB modular chassis, simulation products, and cables & connectors
PIDSO is an Austrian company that specializes in the development and manufacture of antennas and antenna systems for wireless communication. Its antenna portfolio includes array, blade, button, horn, Vivaldi and stick antennas, with some of these antennas operating to 5.8 or 6 GHz. They are also the central European distributor for L-Com, MobileMark and KP Performance Antennas.
PPI Systems was showing and discussing its RapiTrim laser resistor trimming systems and its ProVia laser via drilling and cutting systems.
Rohde & Schwarz joined forces with IMST to demonstrate a powerful solution for Satcom terminal testing. Testing the performance of satellite terminal systems and components with appropriate signals under realistic over-the-air conditions is crucial. Rohde & Schwarz and IMST showcased a test solution that uses the compact R&S ATS1800C CATR-based test chamber from Rohde & Schwarz for OTA measurements to characterize a SANTANA IV antenna array module from IMST. The R&S ATS1800C has a high-quality CATR reflector that creates a large quiet zone for much higher measurement certainty relative to other solutions. The R&S ZNA vector network analyzer can comprehensively test and reliably characterize DUTs. R&S AMS32 software measures technical parameters such as magnitude and phase of far field and near field distributions, as well as metrics such as error vector magnitude to characterize the digitally modulated transceiver performance. The SANTANA IV module (FKZ 50RK1925) is a smart antenna terminal designed by IMST. It is equipped with electronically controlled antenna beam steering that allows the beam shape and pointing direction to be electronically adjusted without any moving mechanical parts. The TX antenna array has 64 elements that support dual linear or circular polarization. The array was designed for an operating frequency range from 29.5 to 30 GHz, which can be used for applications such as Satcom-on-the-move. The single 64-element module can be used as a base module for larger arrays.
Rohde & Schwarz recently announced the radar test system (RTS) for radar object simulation, from single sensor tests to 360° environments, covering 76-81 GHz for automotive radar sensors. Its scalability and adaptability allow a wide range of ADAS traffic scenarios to be electronically generated along the whole testing lifecycle. The solution consists of the R&S AREG800A automotive radar echo generator as a backend and the R&S QAT100 antenna array as a front-end and it can be used in benchtop development, Hardware-in-the-Loop and Vehicle-in-the-Loop. For production, the solution consists of the R&S AREG800A automotive radar echo generator as a backend and the R&S AREG8-24/81S/D antenna as a front-end. Now, with new options for the R&S AREG800A, the system is the most flexible and scalable on the market. For the R&S QAT100 Rohde & Schwarz introduces the new option R&S QAT-B1 ENHANCED FLATNESS. The R&S QAT-B1 contains a detailed characterization of each antenna of the QAT front-ends. With this option, the accuracy of the amplitude flatness of all antennas is improved when operated with R&S AREG800A.
Rohde & Schwarz also showcased three new product innovations: the R&S SFI100A, the R&S NRP170TWG and the R&S FE110ST/SR. The new instruments seamlessly complement existing cutting-edge RF test solutions for applications in the W-band (75 GHz to 110 GHz) and D-band (110 GHz to 170 GHz) and meet early sub-THz testing needs for beyond 5G and 6G research.
Rohde & Schwarz test and measurement instruments were used to characterize an FR2 RIS from Greenerwave. Testing RIS modules requires a test environment that can be illuminated from different incident angles while simultaneously measuring signals at multiple angles. A wireless performance test chamber (WPTC) from Rohde & Schwarz was used for over-the-air (OTA) measurements. The RIS is an electronic device, composed of many layers and a surface inlaid with a set of patch antennas, called pixels or unit cells, whose electromagnetic responses can be controlled via a control board. The module operates in 5G FR2 and beyond, covering a bandwidth of 25-30 GHz with an instantaneous bandwidth of 2 GHz. The module comes with separate polarization control, beam scanning from -60 to 60 degrees and a beam width as narrow as 3 degrees.
Spectrum Control supports the development, verification and testing of 5G and Wi-Fi networks, services, and devices, including for Wi-Fi 6E, with their broad portfolio of Programmable Attenuators, Switch/Attenuation/Phase Shifter Matrices, MIMO and beamforming accessories and customized solutions. Spectrum Control's 5G and Wi-Fi solutions support product validation, optimization and production testing, all to enable faster, better and on-budget roll-out of your 5G and Wi-Fi 6E products and services. Their attenuator and switch products offer the user an extensive range of performance options and configurations to choose from while maintaining standard programming commands and control interfaces for ease of use.
Spinner Group is based in Munich with a broad product portfolio that includes connectors, loads, rotary joints, adapters, attenuators and a whole host of connectivity and test and measurement solutions. The company was showcasing its millimeter wave interconnect components. SPINNER Introduced its “solid 0.8 mm” coaxial connector system that performs up to 165 GHz. They claim that this interface ensures damage-free repeated connections for maximum measurement accuracy while providing a better user experience than competitive rectangular waveguide solutions.
Teledyne e2v HiRel Electronics announced the availability of an industry-leading, rad-tolerant, L- and S-band, low-noise amplifier, that is ideal for use in demanding high-reliability space and radar applications where low noise figure, minimal power consumption and small package footprint are critical to mission success. This new LNA, developed on 0.15 μm, InGaAs, pHEMT technology, is available in a 6-pin dual-flat no-lead (DFN) 1.5 mm x 1.5 mm x 0.8 mm plastic surface mount package. It is now available for immediate shipment from our DoD Trusted Facility. The TDLNA002093SEP LNA leverages MMIC design techniques that deliver exceptional performance across both the L- and S-band communication channels. This amplifier delivers a gain of 21 dB from 1 to 6 GHz while maintaining a noise figure of less than 0.37 dB and output power (P1dB) of 19 dBm. The device utilizes application-specific biasing and can be biased over a VDD range of 2.7 to 5.0 volts and an IDDQ range of 30 to 100 mA. A Class-K evaluation kit is also available for customer evaluation.
Times Microwave now has an online cable calculator for power and attenuation. You can enter your parameters and easily get the results. Try it out here: https://timesmicrowave.com/calculator.
TMYTEK was demonstrating Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) by combining TMYTEK's mmWave testbed with mmW-SDR, a ready-to-use platform for wireless research and radar sensing applications.
Virginia Diodes was showing the TROPICS CubeSat assembly they worked on. Each identical TROPICS CubeSat is a dual-spinning 3U CubeSat equipped with a 12-channel passive microwave spectrometer providing imagery near 90 and 205 GHz, temperature sounding near 118 GHz, and moisture sounding near 183 GHz. Each CubeSat comprises a 2U Blue Canyon Technologies spacecraft bus with an Attitude Determination and Control System, avionics, power, and communications and a 1U spinning radiometer payload with highly integrated, compact microwave receiver electronics designed at MIT Lincoln Laboratory with receivers from UMass - Amherst and VDI.
WIN Semiconductors was still discussing the two new processes announced in advance of IMS in June. The first is NP25- 20, a 50V 0.25µm-gate RF GaN-on-SiC platform that targets front-end applications including radio access networks, satellite communications, electronic warfare and radar systems through 18GHz.The process employs a source-coupled field plate for improved breakdown voltage. This technology is fabricated on 100 mm silicon carbide substrates with through-wafer vias for low inductance grounding. The second process is the PQG3-0C integrated mmWave GaAs platform on 150mm substrates. It targets mmWave front-ends with individually optimized E-mode low noise and D-mode power pHEMTs to enable PA and LNA performance on the same chip. The E-mode/D-mode pHEMTs have ƒt of 110 GHz and 90 GHz respectively, and both employ 0.15 µm T-shaped gates fabricated by deep ultraviolet stepper technology.
Wolfspeed was talking about their broad RF GaN-on-SiC portfolio, but their agreement to sell the RF business to MACOM, announced toward the end of August, meant they could not talk too much about future plans.
Würth Elektronik Group develops and manufactures electronic and electromechanical components, printed circuit boards, intelligent power and control systems, services and solutions for a wide range of industries. The company was showcasing its broad product portfolios in all these areas.
Next year the event is in Paris, France so submit your papers early so you can travel there to present!