Millitech presents millimeter-wave assemblies for high-frequency applications at IMS

NORTHAMPTON, Mass., 24 May 2016. Millitech Inc, a provider of millimeter-wave technology in Northampton, Massachusetts, and part of Smiths Microwave Subsystems, is presenting its advanced millimeter-wave assemblies (MMWAs) -- engineered assemblies with new levels of performance and integration in response to growing demands for E-, W-, and V-band products -- at the International Microwave Symposium (IMS) in San Francisco, California.

Millitech’s E-Band Linear-circular polarizer boasts a low axial ratio of < 0.6 dB, low insertion loss of < 0.5 dB, and can be optimized for any frequency you require from 18 to 110+ GHz. The polarizer offers more than two times the bandwidth of similar products and an industry leading axial ratio performance, officials say.

Millitech’s Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based power amplifiers deliver output power at Ka, E-Band, and W-Band with up to 20 percent power-added efficiency, officials say. Single device models are available with 5~10 watts at Ka-Band. Coming soon are 1 watt at E and W-Band. Millitech’s efficiency in power combining is scalable to 4-, 8-, or 16-way and even higher depending on your requirements. Standard 2- and 4-Way models are pre-configured and up to 64-Way have been supplied.

Millitech’s active, high-power Upconverters and Downconverters integrate amplifiers, mixers, and filters into small and lightweight packages. Each BUC/BDC integrates amplifiers, a mixer, and a filter to generate a high-power upconverter or a low-noise figure downconverter, officials describe. An SMA pulse/mute control input is available on all units for powering down stage 1 amplifiers.

Millitech series AMP power amplifiers leverage advanced PHEMT MMICs and transistors to yield a higher power output from the 18 to 110 GHz frequency band. Strand amplifier interfaces include 2.92 mm coaxial connectors (0-40 GHz), 2.4 mm (0-50 GHz), 1.85 mm (0-65 GHz), and waveguide interfaces from WR-42 to WR-10. Multiple MMIC amplifier chips can be combined or cascaded in applications that require higher gain. The broadband features make them well suited to transceivers, upconverters, EW, instrumentation, and radar systems.

The V- and E-Band Spartan Test Modules (STM) extend network analyzer coverage to 54-69 GHz or 68-90 GHz. Built in detectors also allow compatibility with scalar network analyzers. The RX module can function as a downconverter for spectrum analyzers as well. Excellent for V and E band testing for insertion loss, gain, or phase, these STM are a practical tool in any test lab and alternative to purchasing expensive additional test equipment for test lab applications.

Millitech, Inc. specializes in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of millimeter-wave components, assemblies, subsystems, and integrated systems for applications in satellite communications, radiometry, radar, and remote sensing.

Smiths Microwave Subsystems is a business unit of Smiths Interconnect and includes TRAK, Millitech, and TECOM. The collective brands offer a strong heritage in customized and standard RF through millimeter-wave subsystems, frequency and timing systems, and antennas to defense and commercial customers. The Subsystems team specializes in the design, development, and manufacture of customer-driven solutions including board-level components, RF assemblies, highly integrated subsystems, antennas, and build-to-print manufacturing and testing.