An HMIC I/Q modulator/demodulator for RFID applications

HMIC is a microwave and mmW integrated circuit topology that can create three dimensional structures based upon an intimate marriage of silicon and glass at a wafer scale level which enable high performance, low loss, lower cost realizations of many of the classic hybrid MMIC´s. In addition, the unique nature of the bonding together of these two dissimilar materials into common substrate allows the monolithic insertion of active elements in combination with low loss, high Q, lumped element passive components to produce microwave circuits that can be realized no other way or at as low a cost. This paper will illustrate the results of the development of an integrated I/Q modulator/demodulator MMIC for RFID reader applications using HMIC technology as an integration medium. The resultant RF performance improvements and advantages of the modulator and the overall effect on RFID wireless systems operation will be presented.