RF & Microwave Electronics - October 2021
In this compendium of recent articles from the editors of Aerospace & Defense Technology and Tech Briefs, read about how advances in RF electronics are enabling new applications in satellite and space communications, electronic warfare, counter-drone defense, and more.
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Overview
The RF & Microwave Electronics Special Report from October 2021 provides an in-depth exploration of the advancements and challenges in the field of radio frequency (RF) and microwave technologies, particularly in the context of 5G and related applications.
The report begins by addressing the significant developments in 5G technology, highlighting the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) roadmap for IMT-2020, which aims to surpass the capabilities of previous generations like IMT-Advanced and 4G. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) released the preliminary version of the 5G standard (Release 15) in 2017, enabling telecommunications companies to start developing hardware and infrastructure based on these guidelines. The new radio (NR) standard for 5G incorporates non-standalone (NSA) millimeter-wave spectrum capabilities and additional sub-6 GHz cellular bands, which are crucial for enhancing mobile communication performance.
A key focus of the report is the increasing density of antenna arrays due to the shorter wavelengths of signals at higher frequencies, such as 25 GHz, where the wavelength is approximately 12 mm. This necessitates careful beam steering to minimize interference, especially in densely packed environments. The report emphasizes the importance of digital beamforming technologies for radar and electronic warfare applications, which are becoming increasingly relevant as the spectrum becomes more congested.
The report also discusses the challenges and requirements faced by electronic warfare (EW) systems, which are deployed across various domains, including land, sea, air, and space. These systems often operate within the same frequency bands as non-military communications, making it essential for developers to stay informed about new technologies and standards to effectively navigate this complex landscape.
In addition to 5G and EW, the report covers innovative applications of RF and microwave technologies, such as defeating commercial drone threats using software-defined radio. Drones are becoming ubiquitous in various sectors, including delivery services and wildlife preservation, and the report highlights the role of RF technologies in enhancing their operational capabilities.
The report also touches on advancements in testing solutions for both analog and digital radios, showcasing how software can enable flexible and efficient testing methodologies. This is particularly important as the demand for reliable communication systems continues to grow.
Furthermore, the report features discussions on the development of Ka-band front-end monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) and transmit/receive (T/R) modules, which are critical for high-frequency applications. It also explores the potential of conformal, lightweight antennas and atom-based radio communications, indicating a trend towards more compact and efficient designs.
Overall, the RF & Microwave Electronics Special Report serves as a comprehensive resource for professionals in the field, providing insights into the latest technologies, challenges, and applications shaping the future of RF and microwave electronics. It underscores the importance of innovation and adaptation in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, particularly as the world moves towards more advanced communication systems.
