Octave S/C-band MMIC T/R modules for multi-function phased arrays

A complex wideband transmit/receive (T/R) module that has achieved performance levels superior to that of any MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuit) module is described. Performance across an octave 3.0 to 6.0 GHz band includes a power output of 21 W at S-band and 19 at C-band, a noise figure of 3.9 to 5.0 dB, 30 to 38 dB of receive gain, 25 to 26 dBm IP/sub 3/, 40 dB of gain control in 256 steps, dual receive channels with independent amplitude and phase control, and an 8-bit phase shifter with less than one degree calibrated RMS (root mean square) phase error. Total GaAs area is 146 mm/sup 2/ with 170 mm of total gate periphery. The module incorporates a compact digital interface, requires only three supply voltages, and utilizes advanced packing techniques, resulting in a size compatible with a grating lobe free grid spacing.<>