GaAs MMICs Drive Vehicle ESR Systems

Jan. 23, 2013
A lineup of integrated circuits serves automotive applications at 77 GHz.

Medium- and long-range automotive radar systems rely on 77-GHz GaAs monolithic-microwave-integrated-circuit (MIC) transceiver components such as frequency mixers and amplifiers. For its part, TriQuint has developed an extensive portfolio of 77-GHz MICs for automotive front-end applications, including adaptive-cruise-control and forward-collision-warning systems. The MMIc have been successfully implemented in multimode electronically scanning radar (ESR) on multiple vehicle platforms.

The firm supports 77-GHz designs with components for both receivers and transmitters. For example, for receivers, the model TGA4705-FC flip-chip low-noise amplifier (LNA) has a frequency range of 72 to 80 GHz, with 23-dB gain across that range and a noise figure of 5 dB at 77 GHz. Based on GaAs pseudomophic-high-electron-mobility-transistor (pHEMT) device technology, the LNA chip measures 2.24 x 1.27 x 0.38 mm and draws a mere 60 mA current from a +2.5-VDC supply. For transmitters, model TGA4706-FC is a medium power amplifier also based on GaAs pHEMT technology. It operates from 76 to 83 GHz with 15-dB typical gain and saturated output power of +14 dBm at 77 GHz. It runs on typical quiescent current of 125 mA at +3.5 VDC. The medium-power amplifier chip, which can be used for either E-band communications or automotive radar, measures just 1.86 x 1.37 x 0.38 mm.

For downconverting signals at 77 GHz to a lower-frequency range for signal processing, the company also offers the model TGC4792-FC flip-chip in-phase/quadrature (IQ) mixer. It has an RF and local-oscillator (LO) frequency range of 75 to 82 GHz and an intermediate-frequency (IF) range of DC to 100 MHz to simplify processing or digitizing of downconverted signals. The flip-chip mixer measures only 2.46 x 1.89 x 0.38 mm and runs on a +1.1-VDC supply.

Sponsored Recommendations

Frequency Modulation Fundamentals

March 14, 2024
The development of crystal-clear FM communications was an innovation of genius and toil. Utilized today in applications such as radar, seismology, telemetry and two-way radios...

44 GHz Programmable Signal Generator

March 14, 2024
The Mini-Circuits SSG-44G-RC is a 0.1 to 44 GHz signal source with an RF output range of -40 to +17 dBm with fine resolution. This model supports CW and pulsed (? 0.5 ?s) outputs...

Webinar: Introduction to OTA Measurement for mmWave and Sub-THz

Feb. 19, 2024
Join Jeanmarc Laurent, a leading expert from MilliBox, for an exclusive live webinar showcasing a complete Over-the-Air (OTA) testing system setup. In this immersive session, ...

Using a CMT VNA with Socket Server

Feb. 19, 2024
This application note describes use of a software application CMT Socket Server which is distributed and supported by Aphena Ltd. Please email [email protected] regarding purchase...