Project Title:

MMIC Circulator for Spacecraft Data Transfer Applications

09.07-7267
900046
MMIC Circulator for Spacecraft Data Transfer Applications

Abstract:

To realize the full potential of the monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMIC)
technology, it is necessary to develop MMIC-compatible circuit technologies for non-reciprocal
circuit functions. Based on demonstrated capabilities of active MMIC circulators
operating in micro-wave frequencies, this project will extend design capabilities
up to K and Ka-band frequencies. Availability of MMIC circulators will lead to a
higher scale of integration with attendant size and weight reduction and reliability
improvement for the total RF equipment. Phase I will establish the design approach
and expected RF performance characteristics of K-band circulators and provide a baseline
for product demonstration in Phase II.
Applications include microwave communications, microwave sensing and ranging, and
instrumentation.
FET circulator, MMIC circulator