Low-Loss High-Power Ka-Band Multipole Multithrow MMIC PIN Switch

A MMIC PIN multipole multithrow switch for Ka-band monopulse transceiver applications is presented. Incorporating multiple switch functions into a single MMIC topology yields substantial gains in system performnance. The switch has a maximum insertion loss of 1.6dB in the critical antenna to LNA path and greater than 30dB of isolation between any two ports across the 296Hz to 37GHz frequency range. The switch is fabricated using a MMIC GaAs PIN process having a minimum breakdown voltage of 70V, resulting in high power handling PIN diodes. Additionally, the MMIC switch provides greater than l6dB of passive isolation when in an inactive mode.