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Phased Arrays

MPT has developed phased array and panel array sub systems and components. The figure below shows a panel array that is part of a phased array developed by MPT. It uses patch antenna elements in an array at Ku band frequencies. In addition, MPT has developed high power amplifier modules and Transmit/Receive (T/R) modules for phased arrays.

Furthermore for most of the phased array sub system work that MPT has executed on, we have developed the beam former, low noise amplifiers, phase shifters, drivers and high power amplifiers. For some systems we have developed integrated phase locked loops embedded system using PIC micro controllers.

Below is a brief overview of T/R modules. The block diagram of a typical T/R module is examined and its components are discussed.

T/R Modules

Transmit/Receive (T/R) modules are the heart of a modern phased array radar system. It provided control of the radar signal so that the energy radiated from the antenna can be focused on a particular target of interest. This is accomplished by creating an array of small antenna elements and packing them together in an array of a particular physical spacing. A T/R module exists at each antenna element and it independently controls the amplitude and phase of the radar signal at each element in the array. This extreme level of control allows the antenna beam pattern to be changed dynamically and the resulting beam can be scanned actively.

Each of the major functions is typically realized using a monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC). The MMIC is usually fabricated from Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), Silicon (Si), Silicon Germanium (SiGe), Indium Phosphide (InP) or Gallium Nitride (GaN). However, GaAs realizations have dominated T/R modules nearly 20 years. The use of GaN has been increasing due to its very high break down voltage and large power density. It permits extremely high out power levels.

The block diagram above shows the functions of a typical T/R module. Note that the three switch elements are often combined together with the phase shifter and attenuator to create what is often called a common leg circuit. It is called this because it is common to bother the transmit path and receive path.

How You Win With MPT

Our goal is for our customers to win because we make the best kind of technology, the kind that works. For your next phased array or T/R module development, MPT will deliver top line quality with bottom line results so that you win.