At Space Tech Expo 2018, Arralis has launched a new series of high-frequency analog phase shifter MMIC products that allow more than 360 degrees of analog phase variation with a low insertion loss in the Ka Band. The new products LE-KA1360306, LE-KA1360307, LE-KA1360308 and LE-KA1360303 cover two satellite Ka bands, 17 to 21 GHz and 25.5 to 32.5 GHz.
These products are ideal to track fast moving low earth orbit satellites because it is analog and has continuous phase variation, a great advantage over conventional digital phase shifters. The extended frequency range of the upper band chips are also suitable for the proposed mm-Wave 5G band and will be ideal for beam steering base stations. In addition, the added benefit of simplified assembly is possible as these chips are available with an integrated power amplifier.
This development is of great benefit to designers of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles and 5G systems as now a simple, reliable and flat beam steering and continuous tracking antenna can be realized.
This release completes the most extensive range of Ka band chips covering the 17 to 21 GHz and 27 to 31 GHz mega-constellation frequency bands. The full range is fabricated on a space qualified process, includes an integrated LO amplifier, IQ mixers and PAs and LNAs. Arralis products will significantly reduce Ka Band transceiver size and are an important enabler in reducing satellite size, power and weight. Ka-band antennas are 400% smaller than their Ku band rivals which opens up the consumer and connected vehicle markets to high data rate and low latency satellite communications.
Companies such as Facebook, Inmarsat and SpaceX have recently announced their plans to use the Ka band to provide broadband services around the globe with the initial SpaceX deployment consisting of an unprecedented 4,425 satellites with Ka band payloads.
These chipsets are designed as a one-stop communication solution; from satellite hardware to airborne through to ground. Arralis is showcasing this new range of chipsets at the Space Tech Expo, USA, May 22 - 24, 2018.
