Switching Performance of a 12 GHz p-i-n Phase Shifter/Driver Module for Satellite Communication Phased Array

The design and implementation of a high-speed, lowpower, and TTL-compatible driver for a 12 GHz digital p-i-n phase shifter are shown. The switching performance of the phase shifter, combined with its driver in a compact module, is presented. Measurements of 40 phase shifter/driver modules show that the longest time required to change phase states (switching time) is under 8 ns. The maximum driving power consumption is 36 mW at a phase switching repetition rate of 1 MHz. Each module can handle 800 mW of CW RF power. The performance and compactness of the phase shifter/driver make this module especially attractive for satellite and airborne applications.