5 watt, solid-state EHF transmitter

A 5 watt, all solid-state EHF, rugged, broadband transmitter has been developed for use in satellite-communication ground terminals. This state-of-the-art transmitter demonstrates efficient and cost-effective RF power generation at EHF for commercial and military applications. The specific center frequency and bandwidth (43.5 to 45.5 GHz) are matched to current military requirements. Measured results on the prototype unit are presented. Measured data on the combined outputs of two solid-state EHF transmitters show 10.5 watts at 44.5 GHz, and the 1 dB bandwidth is greater than 5 percent (2 GHz). Development of the building blocks (diodes, unit amplifiers, power combiners and multiplier) also is discussed.