RF multi-chip modules target advanced radar

Qorvo, Inc. has launched three new highly integrated RF multi-chip modules (MCMs) designed for advanced radar applications. Leveraging Qorvo’s advanced packaging and process technology, the QPF5001, QPM2101 and QP1029 devices offer a compact size and high performance as well as lower noise and reduced power consumption required for phased array and multifunction radar systems.

Combining several functions in one package, these multi-chip modules reduce board area and streamline design and assembly.

(Source: Qorvo, Inc.)

The QPF5001  is a 12-W X-band front-end module (FEM). It combines a power amplifier, low noise amplifier (LNA) and limiter in one module, reducing the board area by approximately 50% compared to discrete component solutions, according to the company. Designed for 8-12 GHz X-Band applications, the FEM is configured to interface with a circulator. Transmit power is 12-W saturated and the receiver noise figure is 1.5 dB.

The QPM2101 S-band, housed in a 7 × 7 OVM QFN, is a receive variable gain amplifier (VGA) module. It integrates an LNA, a 6-bit digital step attenuator, Rx buffer and T/R switch, delivering a 40% reduction in board area. Targeting S-band radar applications, this GaAs MCM operates within the 2.5-4.0-GHz range. The receive path offers 30 dB of small signal gain and 1.0-dB noise figure. The transmit channel insertion loss is 1.2 dB. The channel switching response time is 43 ns.

The QPB1029 L-band filter bank MCM integrates two switches on both sides of eight filters and a bypass. Housed in a 10 x 10 mm package, Qorvo claims it is the industry’s smallest L-band radar eight-channel switched filter bank, enabling radar designers to achieve size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C) goals. Key specs include a frequency range of 1.2-1.4 GHz, insertion loss of <3 dB (typical) and out-of-band rejection of >15 dB (typical). Switching speed is 3 µs.

Qorvo is showcasing its new RF solutions at IMS 2024, in booth #1125, June 16-21, in Washington, D.C. Visit the Qorvo IMS 2024 landing page for more information.