Design considerations for phased array modules

The report describes work carried out on the design of X-Band (10 GHz) transmit/receive modules for use in active phased array radar. A heterodyne phase locked loop is used to synchronize the R.F. source in each module to a common reference. Beam steering for an array of modules is accomplished by phase shifting the intermediate frequency reference to each module, thus avoiding the use of microwave phase shifters. An eight element array of modules was constructed and beam steered radiation patterns are given in the report. A particularly simple digital control and monitoring system for the R.F. phase shifters is described. Finally, the design and construction of the modules in microwave integrated circuit form with 10W pulsed Gunn diodes is described.