Signal analysis, design methodolgy, and modular development of a TR module for phased array radars

Abstract

Phased array radars have received considerable importance both in commercial and defense communications. Lot of research has been carried out regarding development of its necessary components such as the antenna array, transmit/receive module (TRM) and processor unit. The cost, efficiency, wide bandwidth, and fabrication technology for the TRM have been pursued as key research areas. Cost reduction techniques till date have focused on the use of high tech MMIC fabrication techniques. Literature lacks in guiding a novice design engineer working on TRM in a cost effective manner. This paper presents mathematical analysis of signals processed in a TRM to enable a design engineer understand the constraints involved in the system design. The behavioral simulation, at 2.0 GHz, of TR module has been performed and, simulated results of phase shifter and TR switch sub-modules are also presented. Detailed system simulation is performed using lumped components for cost effective implementation in a lab environment. The results depict a close realization of the mathematical formulation.