Computer-aided-engineering (CAE) tools can be pricey, but it is still possible to design a low-noise amplifier at a commercial foundry using low-cost, open-source software simulators.

Abstract : Low-power radio frequency (RF) transceivers have been used for low-cost, high volume commercial applications that do not always meet the needs of critical Army systems. In low-power applications, a tradeoff between transmit range and battery life exists. A simple means of extending transmit range would be to add a custom integrated circuit (IC) between the transceiver and antenna. Using appropriate technologies, a tradeoff in size, efficiency, and performance is achievable. We present a custom design using gallium arsenide (GaAs) technology to provide enhanced performance. This design optimizes the output power, noise figure, power added efficiency, insertion loss, and range performance of an overall low-power RF system.

Fabricating a classic broadband amplifier design with newer PHEMT devices should provide improved performance over the same MMIC amplifier based on older GaAs MESFET devices.

This appiroach evaluates both enhancement-mode and depletion-mode GaAs PHEMTs for the design of an K-band (about 8 GHz) LNA designed W run on battery power.

Six electronic technologies under development for the Mars Technology Program are discussed. The scope of this set ranges from electronic packaging to microprocessors to power supply to communication technologies. An overview (motivation, objective, approach) of these six projects is presented, along with a comparison to the state-of-art. The overarching goal is to develop and mature these technologies to a point where the Mars Exploration Program can consider their use in a specific flight mission.

Proven passive MIC components can be redesigned as MMICs with equivalent electrical performance, although. at a fraction of the size and weight of their MIC counterparts.