A novel digital transceiver module structure for multi-functional active phased array systems

Abstract

This paper proposes a transceiver (T/R) module structure for the multi-functional active phased array (APA) systems (including radar and wireless communication systems). The proposed structure uses a full digital interface and applies a GaN supply-modulated power amplifier (SMPA) to improve the power efficiency. In particular, the paper proposes a solution that combines the direct digital synthesis (DDS) with IQ modulation to perform flexibly the functions of phase shifting and amplitude level controlling of the transmitted signals with high resolution for antenna beamforming and scanning. The proposed solution not only eliminates RF attenuator and phase shifter that are commonly used in antenna beamforming but also flexibly configures system functions. The experimental results of designing and manufacturing DDS and IQ modulation parts demonstrate the ability of the proposed structure to generate several common signal types used in radar and communication systems as well as verifies the ability to control the phase and the amplitude level of the transmitted signal.