Millimeter Wave Digital Arrays (MIDAS)
Abstract
The Millimeter Wave Digital Arrays (MIDAS) program is developing a common millimeter wave phased array tile that is scalable to large arrays to provide wideband frequency agility from 18 gigahertz (GHz) to 50 GHz with element-level digital beamforming. Millimeter wave systems are used today to achieve physical security through the use of narrow antenna beams in a small form-factor for applications that include satellite communications and tactical line-of-sight communications such as in the F-22 and F-35. One of the challenges of using directional communications is establishing a link when both platforms are mobile. Element-level digital beamforming allows a platform to listen in all directions to facilitate discovering and linking with neighboring platforms. Digital beamforming also enables multiple beams so that one platform can communicate with several neighbors simultaneously, increasing network throughput and robustness against unexpected outages. To achieve these goals, MIDAS is developing a common digital phased array tile that can be used to build large arrays from this common block. MIDAS uses advanced complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology to develop the core transceiver elements at a size and power consumption compatible with current millimeter wave systems, and employs a combination of advanced packaging and high-performance compound semiconductors to build the power amplifiers and wideband apertures necessary to make a complete system. Technologies from this program are intended for transition through commercial industry to the Services.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2023
- Source ID
- 06bb87a667ea54dd076bfa97e48069d5