12-GHz low noise MIC amplifier with 0.86 dB noise figure

Abstract

A 12-GHz low noise MIC amplifier with 0.86 dB noise figure has been developed. Taking into account the waveguide connection to the antenna system, the amplifier is constructed of waveguide-to-microstrip transition sections and a RF circuit section using the packaged FETs on the same substrate. The RF circuit is covered with damp proof material and the circumference of the substrate is applied with silicon material, so the amplifier is simply-sealed at low cost. In order to achieve low noise and low VSWR for wideband, the matching impedance between the waveguide-to-microstrip transition and the RF circuit has been optimized. Additionally the waveguide modes of the cavity has been considered for design. As a result, the three-stage amplifier presents a noise figure of 0.86 dB with an associated gain of 33 dB, a gain deviation of 1 dB p-p, an input return loss of 10 dB and an output return loss of 13 dB over 11.2 to 12.8 GHz. Copyright 2006 IEICE.