This work presents a transmitter-only phased antenna array architecture for Ka-band satellite applications, specifically from 25.5 to 27 GHz. The design targets an optimum design point among the number of elements, the output power from each transmitter, the antenna EIRP, and its steering capabilities. The core of the system relies on a custom designed power amplifier based on AlGaN/GaN epitaxy grown on 4-inch SiC substrate featuring 20 dB of gain and 28 dBm of saturated power. The antenna array front-end is envisaged as a lattice of 64 hollow metallic horns, spaced by 16 mm from each other. The amplifiers paired with the antenna array targets 70 dBm of EIRP, even considering the maximum beamsteering configuration of ±20°. The proposed concept highlights the flexibility in targeting different power levels, antenna gain, and steering capabilities to finally address a large number of use-cases.
Manni, F., Colantonio, P., Giofre', R., Limiti, E., Longhi, P.e., Mejillones, S.c., et al. (2024). Ka-band GaN-on-SiC power amplifier for high EIRP satellite phased antenna array. In P.F. Björn Debaillie (a cura di), Key Enabling Technologies for Future Wireless, Wired, Optical and Satcom Applications (pp. 133-144). New York : River Publishers.
Ka-band GaN-on-SiC power amplifier for high EIRP satellite phased antenna array
Manni Francesco;Colantonio P.;Giofre Rocco;Limiti E.;Longhi P. E.;
2024-01-01
Abstract
This work presents a transmitter-only phased antenna array architecture for Ka-band satellite applications, specifically from 25.5 to 27 GHz. The design targets an optimum design point among the number of elements, the output power from each transmitter, the antenna EIRP, and its steering capabilities. The core of the system relies on a custom designed power amplifier based on AlGaN/GaN epitaxy grown on 4-inch SiC substrate featuring 20 dB of gain and 28 dBm of saturated power. The antenna array front-end is envisaged as a lattice of 64 hollow metallic horns, spaced by 16 mm from each other. The amplifiers paired with the antenna array targets 70 dBm of EIRP, even considering the maximum beamsteering configuration of ±20°. The proposed concept highlights the flexibility in targeting different power levels, antenna gain, and steering capabilities to finally address a large number of use-cases.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
