Gallium Arsenide Monolithic Microwave Research Articles

Advances in Gallium Arsenide Monolithic Microwave Integrated-Circuit Technology for Space Communications Systems

Future communications satellites are likely to use gallium arsenide (GaAs) monolithic microwave integrated-circuit (MMIC) technology in most, if not all, communications payload subsystems. Multiple- scanning beam antenna systems are expected to use GaAs MMIC's to increase functional capability, to reduce volume, weight, and cost, and to greatly improve system reliability. RF and IF matrix switch technology based on GaAs MMIC's is also being developed for these reasons. MMIC technology, including gigabit-rate GaAs digital integrated circuits, offers substantial advantages in power consumption and weight over silicon technologies for high-throughput, on-board baseband processor systems. In this paper, current developments in GaAs MMIC technology are described,and the status and prospects of the technology are assessed.

Voltage variable microwave phase shifter

Results are given on the fabrication, test and theory of operation of a voltage-controlled, continuously variable phase shifter designed to operate from DC to 150 GHz. The device was fabricated in a way that makes it compatible with current gallium arsenide monolithic microwave circuit technology.

Lumped-element components for GaAs monolithic microwave integrated circuits

Gallium-arsenide monolithic microwave integrated circuits (GaAs MMIC's) promise the microwave circuit designer significant size, weight, and reliability advantages. Distributed and lumped matching techniques have been utilized previously in MMIC design with the latter offering greater bandwidth and smaller size. In this paper, experimental results for lumped interdigitated capacitors on a gallium-arsenide substrate are presented. Computer modelling in the frequency range 2–18 GHz was used to derive a set of design curves for these capacitors. These curves cover aspect ratios of w/s = 1 and w/s = 2.5. Experimental results obtained by using these curves to design lumped-element monolithic filters show excellent agreement with theory.