Integrated Control MMIC Enables Severe Weather Warning Radar

MACOM is touting their new MAMF-011015 as the industry’s first integrated core chip for the 8 - 11 GHz frequency range. Containing 6-bits of phase control, 6-bits of attenuation control and 26 dB of gain, the X-Band core chip is a serial/parallel interface in a 7 x 7 mm surface mount QFN package. Ideally suited for commercial radar applications, the integrated MMIC enables radar systems in early detection and warning for severe impending weather. The core chip integrates a CMOS logic driver with a GaAs Transmit/Receive MMIC within a single QFN package. The device’s versatility and flexibility make it ideal for weather, wildfire, marine and other related commercial radar applications. Development of the core chip is a product of a joint investment between MACOM and FIRST RF Corporation to support new weather radar programs such as the CASA. Optimized for high power and low noise amplifiers, as well as passive and control components, the MAMF-011015 X-Band core chip comprises a common leg circuit, which includes digital attenuators, phase shifters, a low noise receive chain and a transmit driver amplifier, as well as a CMOS logic driver.

M/A-COM TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS INC.