MMICs

Cryogenic Low-Noise Amplifiers

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In collaboration with CalTech and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the CDL has designed, packaged, and tested W-band low-noise amplifier MMICs using NGC's 35nm gate-length InP HEMT process.  These LNAs have achieved record low-noise temperatures of 20-25K in the 75-95 GHz frequency range with 30 dB gain.

Power Amplifiers

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For use in the ALMA local oscillator system, the CDL has designed, packaged, and tested a suite of power amplifier MMICs from 65-122 GHz, each with approximately 15 dB small-signal gain, 50 mW saturated output power, and 20% fractional bandwidth.

Schottky Multiplier and Mixer MMICs

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For use in ALMA local oscillator modules, frequency tripler and mixer MMICs were designed in United Monolithic Semiconductor's (UMS) Schottky diode MMIC process.  These broadband triplers typically have 1-3% conversion efficiency when pumped with at least 50 mW.  The mixer MMICs also operate with RF and LO frequencies in the 65-122 GHz range (IF up to 500 MHz) and typically have 10-15 dB conversion loss.

Multi-Chip Module Development

Many of the MMICs designed by the CDL are for use in multi-chip modules such as downconverters or active multiplier chains.  The CDL has the in-house expertise to design, machine, assemble, and test these modules.

CDL MMIC Development Areas:

  • Continue to design and test MMICs (especially amplifiers and I/Q mixers) in collaboration with industry and academic partners
  • Design and develop highly integrated multi-chip MMIC modules for  more compact and stable receivers, including W-band downconverters and balanced SIS mixers with 4-12 GHz IF

Connect with NRAO

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