RF & Microwave Electronics - May 2023
From the battlespace to outer space, RF electronics are at the heart of new advances in a variety of fields. Read about the latest innovations in this compendium of articles from the editors of Aerospace & Defense Technology and Tech Briefs magazines.
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Overview
The May 2023 Special Report on RF & Microwave Electronics delves into the latest advancements and applications in the field, particularly focusing on radar technology, electronic countermeasures, and the integration of miniaturized systems in demanding environments.
One of the key highlights is the evolution of radar signal processing, which has transitioned from relying on thousands of custom application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) in the early 1980s to more sophisticated and programmable solutions today. This shift has significantly reduced development cycles and improved the flexibility of radar systems. The report discusses the historical context of analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) and digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) technologies, noting that early clock rates were limited to 10 MHz to 60 MHz, with converters operating at 11-bit to 6-bit resolutions.
The report also addresses the challenges of maintaining synchronization in multi-channel microwave systems, particularly when transitioning from copper to fiber transport layers. An experimental fiber-based prototype has been developed to assess its viability as an alternative to copper, with a focus on understanding the performance impacts of environmental factors such as temperature. The initial tests utilize a ten-meter fiber link, allowing for significant separation between microwave RF analog and data processing domains.
In addition to radar technology, the report highlights the use of miniaturized electronics in electronic countermeasures (ECM) and jammer training pods, which are designed to meet stringent size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints. These advancements are crucial for mobile and portable electronic platforms used in mission-critical and tactical systems.
The report also touches on the operational frequencies of equipment, specifically those operating between 960 MHz and 1090 MHz, which are essential for general communications and transponder applications. This frequency range is vital for various military and civilian communication systems, underscoring the importance of RF and microwave technologies in modern communications.
Overall, the Special Report provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of RF and microwave electronics, emphasizing the importance of innovation in radar technology and the integration of advanced systems in various applications. It serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the aerospace and defense sectors, offering insights into the future of automated guided vehicles and the ongoing challenges in military satellite, radar, and 5G communications. The report encapsulates the dynamic nature of the field and the continuous push towards more efficient, reliable, and versatile electronic systems.
