ED2 has introduced the ED2-0023, a new 28 GHz StingArray™ phased array module that is ideal for 5G phased-array antenna systems, beam steering, and similar applications. The ED2-0023 integrates 2x2 radiating elements with Renesas F5288 beamforming Half-Duplex transceiver for n257 band applications. It minimizes loss and increases output power (EIRP +37 dBm). The core IC has highly flexible gain and phase control on each channel to achieve fine beam steering and gain compensation between radiating channels. This PAM includes a standard SPI protocol that operates up to 65 MHz with fast beam switching and fast beam-state loading.
Traditional phased array antenna systems are difficult to design and build, for a number of reasons. ED2’s StingArray™ phased array antenna module represents a quantum leap forward in the category with the following benefits:
- Complex Design and Manufacturing: Designing a phased array antenna requires precise engineering to ensure each element in the array works correctly. Manufacturing such arrays can be complicated due to the need for precise alignment and integration of numerous antenna elements. ED2's SMT package simplifies the design and manufacturing process.
- Power Consumption: Phased array antennas often require significant power to operate, particularly for systems with active electronic components for beamforming and steering. Traditional systems’ efficiency might range from 20% to 50%. ED2’s phased array improves power efficiency significantly by incorporating very low-loss materials and short trace lengths.
- Thermal Management: The electronic components in a phased array can generate significant heat, requiring efficient thermal management solutions to maintain performance and reliability. At mmWave frequencies, phased array systems have high power densities due to the need for many closely packed elements. This can lead to significant heat generation within a small area, requiring efficient heat dissipation solutions. ED2’s phased array module implements innovative thermal management techniques to simplify and ease the design of the larger antenna system.
- Integration and Compatibility: Integrating phased array antennas into existing systems or platforms can be challenging, requiring careful consideration of compatibility with other components and systems. ED2’s phased array module is designed for SMT, enabling automated assembly, higher component density, and flexibility in design.
Click here to learn more about ED2-0023 from ED2.
