MMIC module for a K_U-band miniature airborne active array radar

Monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) and transmit/receive (T/R) modules are being used extensively in systems such as active array radars. The development of sensors for small UAV platforms demands light weight, compact dimensions, low cost and reliability. These requirements have led to the development of highly integrated MMICs in packages where double-sided thick film multilayer substrates are used. The components needed for the MMICs are phase shifters, attenuators, switches, low noise amplifiers (LNA) and power amplifiers. Component re-use is achieved by switching both phase shifter and attenuator, shared in the transmit and receive paths. Each complete T/R module fits within the half wavelength spacing constraints demanded by the associated antenna array with which the modules are integrated.