Spatially combined amplifiers offer advantages in size and efficiency that are unmatched using traditional solid-state combining approaches. We present measured data from a spatially combined Ku-band deck amplifiertrade for use in the 13.75-14.5 GHz satellite uplink band. This amplifier module generates over 45 dBm (31.6 W) of saturated power by spatially combining the outputs of six commercial MMICs with nearly ideal combining efficiency. The power amplifier module occupies less than 12 cubic inches and draws 165 W DC power while delivering 25 W output. We present linearity and spectral regrowth data for this module and demonstrate the flexibility of the deck amplifier architecture with data for a range of module output powers. The high efficiency of these deck amplifier modules enables creation of very compact, lightweight SSPAs and block upconverters capable of being mounted directly on the feed for small aperture satcom applications such as on-the-move and flyaway

By spatially combining the outputs of many solid-state devices on a single chip, grid amplifiers are not only powerful, linear, and efficient, but also are compact, rugged, and robust. We present measured data from a fully-packaged Ka-band module with standard waveguide input and output flanges. With a 50/spl deg/C baseplate temperature, the module can be biased to deliver from 10 to 16 Watts of rated output power in the 30-31 GHz band. The module exhibits very good spectral regrowth performance, and can be operated well into saturation in single-carrier terminals for shared-spectrum multiple-access applications.

The first monolithic grid amplifier using a cascade differential-pair amplifier unit cell has been designed and measured. The grid is packaged using reflection architecture with waveguide input and output. The measured gain at 82 GHz is 5.5 dB. The measured output power is 110 mW with 2.5 dB residual gain. The size of the amplifier module is 20 mm/spl times/10 mm/spl times/10 mm.

This paper describes the benefits of using Grid Amplifiers and their suitability for communications-on-the-move (COTM) terminals. By spatially combining the outputs of many solid-state devices on a single chip, Grid Amplifiers are not only powerful, linear, and efficient, but also are compact, rugged, and robust. We present measured data from a fully-packaged Ka-band module with standard waveguide input and output flanges. The module produces over 12 W from a single output-stage chip. DC power consumption is 56 W quiescent and less than 65 W at 10 W RF output. We also present data detailing the modules linearity, temperature dependence, and build uniformity. The module is compact and lightweight, potentially enabling the SSPA to be mounted on the gimbal of highspeed tracking antennas needed for COTM. Further, the low module cost will promote widespread adoption of COTM.

We have demonstrated a monolithic grid oscillator that shows 1 watt of effective transmitter power at 38 GHz. Use of a wire twist reflector as an external feedback element added to a successful monolithic grid amplifier allows a tuning range from 37.5 GHz to 41 GHz. Impedance matching is accomplished by a double-slug tuner and the movable back-short of the twist reflector.

This paper describes the use of focused Gaussian beams in making quasi-optical measurements at Ka-band. Measurement results for a known standard are presented to validate the measurement technique. Measurement are presented both for the case in which the beam waist is smaller than the quasi-optical array under test and in which the beam waist is slightly larger than the array. The measurements are compared with simulations of infinite arrays illuminated by plane waves. Good agreement can be found between measurement and simulation, provided appropriate calibrations are performed and certain precautions observed. This paper describes a newly developed calibration technique that can be applied when the size of the array under test is comparable to or slightly smaller than the beam waist.

A model for analyzing quasi-optical grid amplifiers based on a finite-element electromagnetic simulator is presented. This model is deduced from the simulation of the whole unit cell and takes into account mutual coupling effects. By using this model, the gain of a 10/spl times/10 grid amplifier has been accurately predicted. To further test the validity of the model three passive structures with different loads have been fabricated and tested using a new focused-beam network analyzer that we developed.

Deschamps' theorem for n-terminal complementary structures is reviewed. An extension to Deschamps' theorem for a class of three-terminal bounded structures with one axis of symmetry is presented. It is shown that, for these structures, a simple relationship between the impedances of the odd mode of the original structure and the admittances of the even mode of the complementary structure exists, and that these modes are orthogonal. Using this, a self-complementary grid amplifier is designed and the measured results are presented.