Micromachining techniques for millimeterwave applications: a short review

Millimeterwave frequency range gained interest due to the demands on bandwidth and speed in telecommunication system. As the frequency increases, the wavelength is shorter and the devices shrink. To some extent, it is difficult to fabricate the small structure using conventional method. A proper consideration on the manufacturing tolerances is needed in fabricating compact structure precisely as well as minimizing losses and crosstalks between lines in a circuit. Many techniques with different tolerances were discussed. Micromachining is one of the techniques with potential to achieve small structures with great accuracy. This paper presents a short review on micromachining techniques used to manufacture small devices precisely. The techniques discussed are bulk micromachining, LIGA, membrane technology, surface micromachining as well as thick photoresist technique. The process for each technique may differ as well as the tolerances

RF and Millimeter-wave Techniques to Improve Scalability and Efficiency of Digital Beamforming Arrays

Spectrum overcrowding, ever increasing demand for high data rate and increased mobility requirements are three major challenges 5G-technology is trying to address. In this thesis I start with a RF front-end technique that deals with blocker interference arising from spectrum overcrowding both across frequency bands and within the same frequency bands. Chapter 3 presents a single wire IF interface design for phased array receivers which enables simple IF backhaul for high data volume MIMO systems. Finally a outphasing power amplifier(PA) design is presented in chapter 4 along with a driver amplifier with digital amplitude modulation to achieve state of the art power back off efficiency, which reduces battery usage and thus increases mobility. The first part of this thesis demonstrates the use of orthogonal sequences along to N-path filters to achieve reconfigurable select/reject filtering of signals based on their spatial, spectral and code-domain properties. A frequency/code-domain reject and select filtering is proposed and implemented using N-path switching with passive inductors as correlators. Using inductors instead of capacitors in N-path filters is challenging because of large inductance value required for our application demands use of off-chip inductors, which comes with associated parasitics and lower self-resonance frequency. In this design a cascaded inductor approach and differential N-path filtering is used to overcome inductor parasitics and enable operation at 1 GHz. A code-domain notch filter followed by a code-domain select receiver is designed and implemented in 65-nm CMOS technology. Measurements demonstrate 0.5 GHz to 1.0 GHz filter tuning range, with a maximum 26dB rejection for a blocker signal with 8dBm power, while consuming 60mW (at 1GHz operation frequency) and occupying 1.2mm2 of die area. Second part of this thesis demonstrates a single wire IF interface to simplify scaling of millimeter-wave(mm-Wave) phased array systems while preserving the data from each element, this enables spatial multiplexing, virtual arrays for radar, digital beamforming(DBF), etc. However, per-element digitization results in a formidable I/O challenge in large-scale tiled MIMO mm-Wave arrays. This dissertation demonstrates a 28 GHz 4-element MIMO RX with a single-wire interface that multiplexes the baseband signals of all elements and the LO reference through code-domain multiplexing. System considerations are presented and the approach is validated through DBF after de-multiplexing of the baseband signals from the single wire. Each element in the array achieves 16 dB conversion gain and ∼ 7 dB noise figure(NF) while consuming 60 mA from 1.2 V. The IC occupies 5.75 mm² in 65-nm CMOS. Final part of this thesis describes the design and implementation of a digital outphasing PA at 28 GHz to achieve state of the art back of efficiency. Outphasing PA require branch PA units to act as voltage sources(very low output impedance), which is challenging at mm-Wave frequencies. In this PA design an approximate class-F operation is achieved by tuning PA load network for up to 3rd harmonic. A stacked PA architecture is used for individual PA units to achieve high maximum power output. Output-power further improved by utilizing a novel diode connected stack bias circuit to improve out-put swing. PA delivers a maximum output-power of 20 dBm with a peak power added efficiency(PAE) of 27% (PA along with driver stages) and 6 dB back-off PAE of 16.5%

An Overview of Recent Development of the Gap-Waveguide Technology for mmWave and Sub-THz Applications

The millimeter-wave (mmWave) and sub-terahertz (sub-THz) bands have received much attention in recent years for wireless communication and high-resolution imaging radar applications. The objective of this paper is to provide an overview of recent developments in the design and technical implementation of GW-based antenna systems and components. This paper begins by comparing the GW-transmission line to other widely used transmission lines for the mmWave and sub-THz bands. Furthermore, the basic operating principle and possible implementation technique of the GW-technology are briefly discussed. In addition, various antennas and passive components have been developed based on the GW-technology. Despite its advantages in controlling electromagnetic wave propagation, it is also widely used for the packaging of electronic components such as transceivers and power amplifiers. This article also provided an overview of the current manufacturing technologies that are commonly used for the fabrication of GW-components. Finally, the practical applications and industry interest in GW technology developments for mmWave and sub-THz applications have been scrutinized.Funding Agencies|European Union - Marie Sklodowska-Curie [766231WAVECOMBEH2020-MSCA-ITN-2017]</p

Adaptive Suppression of Interfering Signals in Communication Systems

The growth in the number of wireless devices and applications underscores the need for characterizing and mitigating interference induced problems such as distortion and blocking. A typical interference scenario involves the detection of a small amplitude signal of interest (SOI) in the presence of a large amplitude interfering signal; it is desirable to attenuate the interfering signal while preserving the integrity of SOI and an appropriate dynamic range. If the frequency of the interfering signal varies or is unknown, an adaptive notch function must be applied in order to maintain adequate attenuation. This work explores the performance space of a phase cancellation technique used in implementing the desired notch function for communication systems in the 1-3 GHz frequency range. A system level model constructed with MATLAB and related simulation results assist in building the theoretical foundation for setting performance bounds on the implemented solution and deriving hardware specifications for the RF notch subsystem devices. Simulations and measurements are presented for a Low Noise Amplifer (LNA), voltage variable attenuators, bandpass filters and phase shifters. Ultimately, full system tests provide a measure of merit for this work as well as invaluable lessons learned. The emphasis of this project is the on-wafer LNA measurements, dependence of IC system performance on mismatches and overall system performance tests. Where possible, predictions are plotted alongside measured data. The reasonable match between the two validates system and component models and more than compensates for the painstaking modeling efforts. Most importantly, using the signal to interferer ratio (SIR) as a figure of merit, experimental results demonstrate up to 58 dB of SIR improvement. This number represents a remarkable advancement in interference rejection at RF or microwave frequencies

Polymer-based 3-D printed 140 to 220 GHz metal waveguide thru lines, twist and filters

This paper demonstrates the current state-of-the-art in low-cost, low loss ruggedized polymer-based 3-D printed G-band (140 to 220 GHz) metal-pipe rectangular waveguide (MPRWG) components. From a unique and exhaustive up-to-date literature review, the main limitations for G-band split-block MPRWGs are identified as electromagnetic (EM) radiation leakage, assembly part alignment and manufacturing accuracy. To mitigate against leakage and misalignment, we investigate a ‘trough-and-lid’ split-block solution. This approach is successfully employed in proof-of-concept thru lines, and in the first polymer-based 3-D printed 90° twist and symmetrical diaphragm inductive iris-coupled bandpass filters (BPFs) operating above 110 GHz. An inexpensive desktop masked stereolithography apparatus 3-D printer and a commercial copper electroplating service are used. Surface roughness losses are calculated and applied to EM (re-)simulations, using two modifications of the Hemispherical model. The 7.4 mm thru line exhibits a measured average dissipative attenuation of only 12.7 dB/m, with rectangular-to-trapezoidal cross-sectional distortion being the main contributor to loss. The 90° twist exhibits commensurate measured performance to its commercial counterpart, despite the much lower manufacturing costs. A detailed time-domain reflectometry analysis of flange quality for the thru lines and 90° twists has also been included. Finally, a new systematic iris corner rounding compensation technique, to correct passband frequency down-shifting is applied to two BPFs. Here, the 175 GHz exemplar exhibits only 0.5% center frequency up-shifting. The trough-and-lid assembly is now a viable solution for new upper-mm-wave MPRWG components. With this technology becoming less expensive and more accurate, higher frequencies and/or more demanding specifications can be implemented

Recent Advances in Antenna Design for 5G Heterogeneous Networks

The aim of this book is to highlight up to date exploited technologies and approaches in terms of antenna designs and requirements. In this regard, this book targets a broad range of subjects, including the microstrip antenna and the dipole and printed monopole antenna. The varieties of antenna designs, along with several different approaches to improve their overall performance, have given this book a great value, in which makes this book is deemed as a good reference for practicing engineers and under/postgraduate students working in this field. The key technology trends in antenna design as part of the mobile communication evolution have mainly focused on multiband, wideband, and MIMO antennas, and all have been clearly presented, studied and implemented within this book. The forthcoming 5G systems consider a truly mobile multimedia platform that constitutes a converged networking arena that not only includes legacy heterogeneous mobile networks but advanced radio interfaces and the possibility to operate at mm wave frequencies to capitalize on the large swathes of available bandwidth. This provides the impetus for a new breed of antenna design that, in principle, should be multimode in nature, energy efficient, and, above all, able to operate at the mm wave band, placing new design drivers on the antenna design. Thus, this book proposes to investigate advanced 5G antennas for heterogeneous applications that can operate in the range of 5G spectrums and to meet the essential requirements of 5G systems such as low latency, large bandwidth, and high gains and efficiencies

Development of New Tunable Passive Microwave Components in Waveguide Technology

[ES] La presente tesis doctoral tiene como objetivo principal el estudio, desarrollo, diseño y fabricación de nuevos componentes pasivos de microondas, tales como filtros y multiplexores que operen en las bandas de alta frecuencia de los actuales y futuros satélites de telecomunicación (bandas Ku, K y Ka) entre 12 y 40 GHz. Dichos componentes deben ser capaces de ofrecer tanto respuestas clásicas sencillas como avanzadas (elípticas), y presentar una capacidad de resintonización (tanto en términos de frecuencia central como de ancho de banda). Estos componentes darán solución a las necesidades actuales de los sistemas de comunicaciones espaciales, que requieren de mayores tasas de transmisión de datos (señales de mayor ancho de banda), así como de mayor flexibilidad en las frecuencias de operación, para ofrecer con un mismo dispositivo distintos servicios y prestaciones. Para ello, se proponen tanto modificaciones a las estructuras de filtros clásicos de microondas actuales, como la introducción de nuevas estructuras. Asimismo, también se investigará el uso de los tornillos de ajuste post-fabricación de los filtros como tornillos de sintonía metálicos, así como la posible introducción de tornillos de sintonía realizados con distintos materiales dieléctricos. Se pretende, de esta forma, mejorar las respuestas de los dispositivos actuales; reduciendo su tamaño y costes de producción (debido a la relajación de las tolerancias de fabricación), abaratando de esta forma la fabricación y futura operación de los mismos. Aprovechando estos nuevos dispositivos, se abordará también el diseño, fabricación y medida de componentes más complejos, como pueden ser los los diplexores de canal o los conmutadores con respuesta selectiva en frecuencia, todos ellos necesarios en los sistemas de comunicaciones espaciales y en íntima relación con los filtros previamente mencionados. Por último, el desarrollo de todos estos nuevos dispositivos vendrá acompañado de una metodología de diseño basado en el uso del Mapeo Espacial Agresivo (Aggressive Space Mapping, ASM) especialmente adaptado a los filtros en guía de onda.[CA] La present tesis doctoral té com a objectiu el estudi, desenvolupament, diseny i fabricació de nous components pasius de microones, tals com els filtres i multiplexors que operen en les bandes d'alta freqüencia dels actuals i futurs satèl.lits de telecomunicació (bandes Ku, K i Ka) entre 12 i 40 GHz, Aquests components han de ser capaços d'oferir tant, respostes clàsiques sencilles com avançades (eliptiques), i que a més a més presenten una capacitat de resintonització (tant en termes de freqüència central com d'amplada de banda). Aquestos nous components pasius donaràn solució a les necesitats dels actuals sistemes espacials, que requereixen de majors taxes de transmissió de dades (senyals de major amplada de banda), així com de major flexibilitat en les frequencies de operació, per oferir en un mateix dispositiu distints serveis i prestacions. Per aquesta raó, es proposen tant modificacions a les estructures del filtres clàsics de microones actuals, com la introducció de noves estructures. Així mateix, també s'investigarà l'us dels tornells d'ajustament post-fabricació dels filtres com a tornells de sintonía metàl.lica i la introducció de tornells de sintonía realitzats amb diferents materials dielèctrics Es pretén, d'aquesta forma, la millora de les respostes del dispositius actuals; reduint la envergadura i els costos de producció (gràcies a la relaxació de les toleràncies de fabricació), abaratint d'aquesta forma la fabricació i futura operació dels filtres mateixos. Aprofitant aquestos nous dispositius es treballarà també en el disseny, fabricaçió i mesura de components més complexes, com poden ser els multiplexors de canal i els commutadors amb resposta selectiva en freqüencia, tots ells necessaris en els sistemes de comunicacions espacials i en íntima relació amb els filtres abans esmenats. Per analitzar, el desenvolupament de tots aquestos dispositius vindrà acompanyat d'una metodologia de disseny basada en l'us del Mapatge Espacial Agressiu (Aggressive Space Mapping, ASM), especialment adaptat als filtres en guia d'ona.[EN] The main objective of this doctoral thesis is the study, development, design and manufacture of new passive microwave components in waveguide technology, such as filters and multiplexers, that operate in the high frequency bands of current and future telecommunication satellite payloads between 12 and 40 GHz (Ku, K and Ka bands). The new solutions developed must other both classic and advanced (elliptical) responses, as well as the possibility of being reconfigured both in terms of center frequency and bandwidth. The motivation for this research is to address the current and future needs of space communication systems which require higher data rate transmission (that is larger bandwidths), as well as flexibility with respect to the operating frequency to dynamic adaptation to possible changes in user demands. In this context, we propose in this thesis alternative microwave filter structures in metallic waveguide, as well as novel solutions. We explore different approaches to adjust the filter performance, using both traditional metallic tuning screws as well as tuning elements made with dierent dielectric materials. We also advance the state-of-the-art by developing more performing Space Mapping procedures for the design, optimization and tuning of the filter structures that we propose. The objective is to improve the response of the devices and reduce, at the same time, their manufacturing time and costs. As a fundamental element of our work, in addition to theoretical developments, we also apply the findings of our research to the design, manufacture and measurement of a number of more complex components, such as diplexers and integrated switches and filters. They are practical devices to demonstrate the ability of the novel filters that we propose to satisfy the requirements of current and future advanced satellite payloads.Ossorio García, J. (2021). Development of New Tunable Passive Microwave Components in Waveguide Technology [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/166100TESI

Substrate Integrated Waveguide Devices and Receiver Systems for Millimeter-Wave Applications

RÉSUMÉ La très forte congestion du spectre radiofréquence alloué aux fréquences RF et micro-ondes pour les communications sans fil d’aujourd’hui motive ce travail de recherche qui se consacre aux bandes millimétriques pour lesquelles d’avantages d’allocations spectrales sont disponibles, et qui est particulièrement intéressante pour le transfert à très haut débit. Comparé aux autres technologies de ligne de transmission, le Guide Intégré au Substrat (GIS) montre des avantages très attractifs comme un faible profil, un faible coût, un haut facteur de qualité (facteur Q), de faibles pertes d’insertion... Ce dernier a gagné beaucoup d’attention récemment grâce à ces caractéristiques favorables pour la conception de circuits et systèmes millimétriques. Le sujet de ce doctorat concerne deux tâches de recherche distinctes : la première est dédiée à l’investigation et à la conception de composants et d’antennes GIS innovants pour une possible application en ondes millimétriques; la seconde se consacre à la mise au point et à la démonstration de systèmes de réceptions millimétriques de tailles compactes, faibles pertes, à haut niveau d’intégration et hautes performances. Les chapitres 1 à 4 se concentrent sur l’exploitation et l’investigation, un à un, de composants GIS pour lesquels un nombre de concepts originaux et innovants de structures est proposé et démontré. Dans le chapitre 5, les architectures classiques et les paramètres des systèmes de réception sont introduits, puis utilisés pour la conception de systèmes de réceptions millimétriques dans les chapitres suivants. Du chapitre 6 au chapitre 8, des systèmes submillimétriques et millimétriques basés sur le GIS sont démontrés. Les contributions majeures de cette thèse sont les suivantes : Une structure balancée large bande inhérente peut être obtenue en imprimant un circuit sur deux faces d’un substrat GIS. Ainsi, un balun planaire large bande GIS implémenté sur un circuit imprimé (ou PCB, pour Printed Circuit Board) simple couche est proposé et présenté, suite auquel une nouvelle transition large bande de ligne microruban à ligne parallèle est démontrée. Avec cette transition proposée comme réseau d’alimentation, une nouvelle antenne large bande quasi-Yagi planaire est développée.----------ABSTRACT The heavily congested condition at the existing radio frequency (RF)/microwave spectra allocated for the today’s wireless communications motivates and expedites the research work at millimeter-wave bands where more spectrum space is available for massive data rate delivery. Compared with other transmission line techniques, the substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) platform shows attractive advantages of low profile, low-cost, high Q-factor, and low insertion loss, etc. It has gained a lot of attention recently due to its favorable features in millimeter-wave circuit/system design. The topic of this doctoral dissertation are concerned with two distinct research tasks: (1) investigating and designing innovative SIW components and antennas for possible millimeter-wave applications; (2) developing and demonstrating geometry-compact, low cost, high level of integration and high performance millimeter-wave receiver systems. Chapters 1 to 4 focus on the exploitation and investigation of individual SIW devices, in which a number of original concepts and innovative structures are proposed and demonstrated. In Chapter 5, generic architectures and parameters of receiver systems are discussed and used as a guideline for the millimeter-wave system design in the next chapters. From Chapter 6 to Chapter 8, sub-millimeter/millimeter wave systems based on SIW technique are demonstrated. The major contributions of this thesis work can be highlighted as follows:An inherent broadband balanced structure can be achieved by printing circuits on two opposite sides of an SIW substrate. According to this feature, a broadband SIW planar balun implemented on a single layer printed circuit board (PCB) is proposed and presented, following which another newly proposed broadband microstrip-to-broadside parallel stripline transition is demonstrated. With the proposed transition as the feeding network, a novel broadband printed quasi-Yagi antenna is developed. Half-mode substrate integrated waveguide (HMSIW) and quarter-mode substrate integrated waveguide (QMSIW) techniques are introduced for the purpose of miniaturizing SIW circuits and enhancing the bandwidth

Microwave and Millimeter-wave Miniaturization Techniques, and Their Applications

Miniaturization is an inevitable requirement for modern microwave and mm-wave circuits and systems. With the emerging of high frequency monolithic integrated circuits, it is the passive components’ section that usually occupies the most of the area. As a result, developing creative miniaturization techniques in order to reduce the physical sizes of passive components while keep their high performance characteristics is demanding. On the other hand, it is the application that defines the importance and effectiveness of the miniaturization method. For example, in commercial handset wireless communication systems, it is the portability that primarily dictates miniaturization. However, in case of liquid sensing applications, the required volume of the sample, cost, or other parameters might impose size limitations. In this thesis, various microwave and mm-wave miniaturization methods are introduced. The methods are applied to various passive components and blocks in different applications to better study their effectiveness. Both componentlevel designs and system-level hybrid integration are benefited from the miniaturization methods introduced in this thesis. The proposed methods are also experimentally tested, and the results show promising potential for the proposed methods