High Power 94 GHz Radar Source

A one watt 94 GHz power amplifier with >2 GHz bandwidth will be designed, and an operational brassboard model fabricated. The approach is based upon power combining of four single-diode silicon IMPATT amplifier modules using magic-tees. The brassboard model will serve as a developmental unit during Phase II in which a product development effort will lead to a production version. Also on Phase II, a 2 watt model will be produced. Key characteristics for the product are: 1) operationally robust for field operation, 2) high quality spectral characteristics, 3) producible in moderate quantities at an affordable price, 4) ready for production within 1 to 2 years. Consistent with these guidelines, the technical approach is one of low-to-moderate technical risk. The project will draw from Millitech's unique and extensive capabilities in this area. Research issues, which complement the product development effort, are confined to two areas: 1) Refinement of the RF design in the single-diode building block amplifier module to enhance the manufacturability of these modules which typically have required substantial costly, highly skilled labor. 2) Determining the optimum of several candidate topologies for module-level combining. Refinement of methods for suppression of spurious and broadband noise from the IMPATTs within the production environment will influence the course of these research areas. Anticipated Benefits: This project will provide for the long-awaited but yet unfulfilled need for a 1 watt 94 GHz solid state power amplifier which can be obtained as a commercial product. To date, this power level has not been available except through research lab types of efforts which result in one-of-a-kind, high cost units. This product will allow realization of numerous advanced millimeter wave applications, especially radar. System requirements exist in both military and commercial sectors.