The 403 MHz SAW oscillator

This contract provides for a twelve month program for the investigation and exploratory development of a 200 mW, SAW stabilized oscillator which can be frequency and amplitude modulated. The oscillator is to have its center frequency at 403 MHz and be tunable over a + or - 3 MHz bandwidth. Trade-off design studies have been performed to determine techniques which will provide the most effective interaction of essential oscillator components, i.e., SAW delay-line, phase shifter, coupler and amplifier, to provide a high degree of frequency stability. A significant effort was made to implement the required circuit functions in a low-cost printed circuit approach rather than utilize high-cost commercially available components, since the oscillator is intended for use in an expendable application. Specific tasks addressed to date include: Mask and SAW delay line design and fabrication. Assembly of a dc circuit board as required for electronic tuning, modulation, compensation and regulation. Integration and test of a complete breadboard oscillator. Extensive circuit characterization.