Abstract

T/R modules are the key components for active phased array radar applications. This paper describes light-weight, temperature compensated T/R modules which have been developed at DaimlerChrysler Aerospace within the last months. The presented T/R modules are characterised by a three dimensional temperature compensation algorithm, light weight, and high efficiency, which are the main features for T/R modules used in space-borne applications. Besides highly sophisticated Gallium Arsenide monolithic microwave integrated circuits (GaAs MMICs), the key components for T/R modules, multilayer alumina (A12O3) substrate technology has been applied to reduce module size and weight. The presented T/R modules are controlled by a highly integrated digital control electronics realised in MCM-D technology, i.e. multi chip module using bare chips on alumina substrate in thinfilm technology, in which the compensation algorithm is contained, and which is able to control two T/R elements independently, each consisting of one Tx and Rx channel. Applying these technologies, small-sized and light-weight duopack T/R modules have been built-up.