Módulos MMIC multifunción para aplicaciones espaciales

Abstract

This paper presents the design of multifunction monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMIC) to be used in transmit/receive modules for onboard satellite applications. Two chips have been developed: one for frequency generation including a negatron VCO, a frequency tripler and a digital frequency divider, and a second for signal amplification and conversion including AGC amplifiers and mixers. The goal of the work is to reduce the number and size (and consequently the cost) of the circuitry actually in use, without sacrificing system performance, through the use of a mature GaAs PHEMT technology. Issues such as suitable circuit topologies, dc power consumption, circuit area minimization and optimization are all important factors addressed during the project.